In the region of Alaverdi one of the most picturesque sights of Armenia – the monastery of Kobayr is situated. The monastery got its name from the combination of two – Armenian and Georgian words having the same meaning “cave”. The church of Katoghike was built by the Kyurikian branch of Bagratuni family in 1171. However, later on it became the property of Georgian Orthodox Zakarian family. This is why most of the carvings and frescoes here have Georgian origin.
The monastery of Sanahin (10-13cc) is situated in Alaverdi region. Being persecuted by the Byzantines the Armenian clergymen founded the church of St. Godmother here in the first half of the 10th century.