The Ashtarak region is located on the southern slope of Mount Aragats. The area is ancient and has been inhabited since time immemorial; today it is dotted with stone monuments and ancient burial places. Visit one or two of these impressive places before exploring the villages of Ashtarak. Ohannavank, Saghmossavank and Tegher monasteries were all built by Prince Kurd Bakutian in the 13th century. Ohannavank was rebuilt from its original wooden structure (which also was constructed on pagan ruins), and is considered to be one of the finest examples of large churches in the country. Saghmossavank and Tegher are representative of the central dome construction style typical of the period. Also in this region is the Arshakid mausoleum, which was constructed in the 4th century for the royal family.