Tatev occupies a natural fortress: a spur of rock in the province of Syunik with the Vorotan gorge falling away on three sides. The monastery took full advantage of it, ringing the promontory with walls so that church, refectory, cells and outbuildings form an enclosed settlement rather than a simple religious house. In the late medieval period Tatev became a renowned centre of teaching, its university drawing scholars in theology, philosophy, manuscript illumination and music, and its scriptorium producing works that circulated widely. In the courtyard stands the Gavazan, a tall carved column engineered to oscillate slightly, an object of long-standing fascination. Earthquakes have repeatedly damaged the complex and restoration is ongoing. Access has been transformed by the aerial tramway known as the Wings of Tatev, which crosses the gorge in a single unbroken span and has been recognised as the longest reversible cable car of its kind, turning a long mountain drive into a short flight over the canyon. Filmed in 4K, from the cabin, the air and the walls, the programme suits sacred sites, medieval history and travel strands.
