This part of history is associated with Mount Ara, on the southern slope of which there is a cave shrine dedicated to St. Barbara. This place has become a popular pilgrimage point due to two legends associated with the monastery complex.
According to the first legend, Saint Barbara, hiding from her cruel father, who was against her Christian faith, found refuge in a cave on Mount Ara. Before her martyrdom, she prayed to God that children suffering from smallpox and rubella would be healed through her prayers.
The second legend tells of the beautiful Tsakhik (which means “flower” in Armenian) who, convinced of the impossibility of escaping her tyrant ruler, jumped off a cliff located next to the cave. The water flowing from the roof of the cave is considered a symbol of the tears of the Virgin and is attributed healing properties.
These legends add mystery and spiritual significance to the place, attracting pilgrims and tourists to it.
4 апр 2024
