Harechavank is one of the oldest cultural monuments of the Middle Ages; it was built in the 7th–8th centuries by the brothers Ivane and Zakare.
It is located in the village of Harich, Shirak Province.
In the 13th century, a small part of the monastery was built: the Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. If you look closely, there is a 'line' of black stones on the upper part of the monastery's dome. According to legend, the younger of the brothers, Ivan, died during the church's construction, and as a symbol of mourning, the elder brother decided to line that section with black stones. There is also a tunnel running beneath the monastery which, according to local lore, stretches all the way to Ani in Western Armenia.
To the left of the church's altar, there is a pit. According to legend, when the Seljuk Turks attacked the village, the women and children went into the monastery and 'vanished'. The Turks believed it was a miracle, but they travelled through the church's tunnel to Ani.
There is also a small chapel near the church. According to legend, during the Seljuk invasion, the Princess of the Princes was in danger and entered the chapel for protection. She prayed in the chapel, and the rock broke away and recoiled, saving the princess. At the back of the church is a clock which shows the time accurately.
