Aruch village, with its monastery complex, is located not far from the capital Yerevan (around 40km). It is one of the oldest populated villages in Armenia. The mentions of Aruch date back to the 5th century. Back then the village used to serve as a winter residence for the Royal Army of Armenia. Starting from the 7th century it became the official residence of the Duke Gregory Mamikonyan, where he built the St Gregory church, well-preserved to our days. The church used to be covered in frescos on both inside and outside walls. Some of the frescos still remain. Southest of the village the medieval castle is to be found, dating back to 3rd-5thcenturies. A little further there is a caravanserai dating to 13-14th centuries, which means the the itinerary of medieval traders passed through the village at that time.