The Odzun Monastery and its domed basilica in central Odzun are among the oldest and most significant monuments of Armenian architecture and spiritual history. The main church, Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), was originally built in the 4th century by King Trdat III, though legends often attribute it to the 8th century and Catholicos Ohanes Odznetsi.

Originally, it was a three-nave basilica with a wooden tiled roof. Over the centuries, the church underwent several reconstructions: one theory places renovations in the late 6th century, while another attributes them to Ohanes Odznetsi in the 8th century. The rectangular prayer hall, surrounded on three sides by an external gallery, reflects the early Armenian basilica style.

The walls and columns preserve 4th-century reliefs, four of which are considered masterpieces of pre-Christian and early Christian art. The structure’s earthquake resistance is enhanced by basalt projections in the columns and cornerstones, demonstrating the advanced engineering of medieval Armenian builders.

The monastery’s bell towers were built in 1888 by the Odznetsi brothers Zakare and Baghdasar Abovyan. The church’s facades also feature valuable reliefs of pre-Christian art, and above the central window of the eastern facade stands a statue of Christ holding an open book, inscribed with the opening words of the Gospel of John.

Historically, the Odzun Monastery served as a spiritual, educational, and cultural center. Monks created manuscripts and preserved Armenian church traditions over centuries. Today, the Odzun complex attracts tourists and researchers alike, offering insights into architecture, history, and Armenian art. Its unique frescoes and reliefs make it a site of global cultural significance.