Hidden in the hills and forests of Dilijan lies the remote monastery of Haghartsin. A walk through the stone structures today were three hundred years in the making, beginning in the 10th century until it's completion in the 13th century. The complex highlights the beauty of Armenian architecture and nature, seamlessly blending in the environment.

Like most ancient structures in Armenia, legends are aplenty here. Up to three hundred monks once lived in these stone halls, devoid of human interaction for long periods of time. It is said underground passages exist from the complex to the river below, as well as at least one of the twelve columns supported the main structure as hollow to hide their valuables. Visiting today as tour busses unload, it is hard to imagine its former remoteness. However, the stunning craftsmanship is still to be admired.