ARMENIAN-CATHOLIC CONVENT OF BZOMMAR

On the narrow and winding road between Achqout and Hirata there are several places of contemplation and prayer. Many convents have been installed on rocky headlands, thus enjoying an exceptional panorama of meditation. The convent Notre-Dame de Bzoummar, which dominates Jounieh bay at over 900 m above sea level, was founded in 1749 by Abraham Pierre I Ardzivian. He is the only Armenian monastery, after Jerusalem, established in the Middle East. The church was renovated in 1771 and is rich in th century master's paintings dedicated to the virgin. The convent produces its wines and spirits that visitors can buy at the monastery shop.