Tatev Monastery is located in southern Armenia in Syunik Region. The Monastic complex was founded in the 9th century on a basalt plateau near the Tatev village. Whole of the monastery stands on the edge of the picturesque Vorotan River Canyon. Tatev has played a significant role in the history of Armenia by representing an economic, political, spiritual and cultural center. In the 14th and 15th centuries the monastery hosted one of the most important Armenian medieval universities, the University of Tatev, which contributed to the advancement of science, religion and philosophy, reproduction of books and development of miniature painting. The monastery is also well-known for “Wings of Tatev,” a cableway from Tatev to Halidzor village was opened in October 2010. It was included in the Guinness World Records as world's "longest non-stop double track cable car."