Marmashen Monastic Complex is lying beautifully above the Akhuryan River, surrounded with fruit trees and picturesque landscape. It is located to the northwest of Gyumri city, in Shirak Region. The monastery has four churches with the round one recently discovered with its narthex and a chapel; the last two are in ruins now. Marmashen was founded between 986 and 1029 by Prince Vahram Pahlavuni. Its architecture is unique regarding the huge stones (some of which are two meters) that were used during the construction of the monastery. The half columns decorate the drum of cupola which gives a beautiful decorative effect. There is a bridge probably of the 10-11th c. on the Akhurian nearby. Across the river, near an abandoned medieval settlement, are Bronze Age graves.