Armenia is a state with an ancient history, located in a very picturesque area. There are a lot of places left here that have retained their unique flavor.
The oldest word best characterizes Armenia. Indeed, this country was the first to adopt Christianity, because there are many ancient temples, and the great culture of the state of Urartu still remains a mystery and awes scientists. Millennium Observatory, mountain villages, where houses were built a couple of hundred years ago, the ruins of fortresses - all this can be seen in Armenia.
Also, very hospitable people live here. tourist tours very cheap, lodging - too. We advise travelers to completely switch to the local cuisine during their holidays in Armenia. Believe me, you have not eaten such a delicious barbecue anywhere else! And there is also the freshest lavash baked in front of you, duduk, the famous cognac, churchkhela and wine.
Visit Lake Sevan and Tatev Monastery, wander the mountains, get acquainted with the unimaginably ancient history of Armenia, and in search of modern entertainment, head to Yerevan, a city that successfully combines innovation with ancient traditions.
The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles/day
What to see in Armenia?
The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a brief description.
1. Lake Sevan
The pearl of Armenia, located at an altitude of 1916 meters above sea level. With its clear water and green shores surrounded by mountain peaks, Sevan is called one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the world. The ancient Armenians believed that the Gods drink from Sevan, therefore they treated it with great trepidation. Now over 250 thousand people live on the shores of the lake, excellent conditions have been created for recreation here, and the area is simply created to admire nature.
2. Observatory Karahunj (Zorats-Karer)
At first glance, this is not an observatory at all, but blocks of stones that someone placed in an incomprehensible modern people, but in a well traceable order. Scientists have recognized that Zorats-Karer is indeed an observatory. It is located on a mountain plateau near the city of Sisian. The complex includes many standing stones, some with holes. Archaeologists have found burials here, a corral for livestock, as well as a special arrangement of stones that allows you to observe the Sun and Moon.
3. Mount Ararat
Ararat is the pride of Armenia, its most famous peak, which it shares with Turkey. They share Small and Big Ararat, but both peaks are considered sacred. The locals believed that climbing Ararat, where, according to legend, Noah's ark stopped after the Flood, was an ungodly act. Today, everyone who is confident in their abilities and preparation can climb Ararat, they just need to buy the appropriate ticket and get permission from the authorities.
4. Tatev Monastery
The most famous and ancient monastic complex of Armenia, located 20 kilometers from the city of Goris. Today it is a tourist complex that attracts thousands of travelers. Tatev is famous not only for its history (it was built in the 9th century), but also for the Wings of Tatev cable car, as well as for the Satani Kamurj natural bridge and the cave of the same name. In Tatev, you can see several ancient temples and many other sights at once.
5. Sanahin
This is another famous monastery complex built in the 10th century. Included in the UNESCO list. Sanahin is known for its original architecture and rich history. In a harmonious architectural ensemble Sanahin includes a cathedral with the remains of paintings, several groups of sculptural images, chapels, churches, a tomb, as well as an original arched bridge decorated with figures of wild cats.
6. Mountains of the Lesser Caucasus
They differ from their “brother” the Greater Caucasus in the lower height of the peaks, but this does not at all make them less attractive for tourists and climbers. The most high peak Lesser Caucasus - Mount Aragats 4090 meters high - is located in Armenia. The Lesser Caucasus includes seven ranges, between the peaks of which there are cozy green valleys and untouched forests. The nature here is amazingly beautiful, so it would be a big mistake not to visit this place.
7. St. Hripsime Church
Built in the 17th century, the church in the city of Vagharshapat still attracts tourists with its unusual architecture. The Church of St. Hripsime looks both powerful and elegant, majestic and calm. The construction of the church is associated with a legend about Christian girls who fled from Rome to Armenia, but were killed here by the local king, who later repented, was baptized and built this unusual church, named after one of the girls.
8. Matenadaran
In Yerevan there is a unique repository of ancient manuscripts - Matenadaran. To see this building and its exhibits, you should climb the mountain along Mashtots Avenue. Near the entrance you will be met by sculptures depicting Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet and his student. Today, Matenadaran is the largest repository of ancient Armenian manuscripts on the planet, although earlier the collection was looted several times.
9. Etchmiadzin Cathedral
The main temple of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Etchmiadzin Cathedral is located in the city of Vagharshapat, included in the UNESCO list. This is one of the oldest Christian churches on the planet, built in the 4th century! The cathedral, of course, has undergone many reconstructions over the years, the last one in the 20th century. The temple is distinguished by magnificent decoration, strict lines and special architecture, complemented by pointed bell towers.
10. Temple of Mihr in Garni
This unusual temple is called the "Armenian Parthenon". The temple of Mihr in Garni really looks antique, it seems that by some miracle it was transferred to Armenia from Ancient Greece. Slender columns, porticos, luxurious mosaics - the temple of Mihr was used by the Armenian kings with pleasure as a summer residence. It was carefully restored after the earthquake and now historical performances are regularly held here.
11. Erebuni Fortress
If you want to see what the capital of Armenia looked like 2.7 thousand years ago, be sure to take the time to visit the Erebuni Fortress, which became the first major defensive structure in the country. Erebuni still keeps a lot of mysteries, archaeologists continue to find unique artifacts here. And the fortress itself, located in the Ararat valley, looks very beautiful.
12. Yerevan Cascade
The cascade occupies the status of the main attraction of Yerevan, therefore, to visit the capital of Armenia and not see this man-made miracle will be a big omission. The cascade consists of artistically designed and ordered sculptures, stairs, fountains and flower beds, picturesquely located on the slopes of the Kanaker hills. This is really the main decoration of the city, and from the top of the Yerevan Cascade, a wonderful view of the whole city and the peaks of Ararat will open.
13. Khor Virap
Khor Virap is located at the foot of the most famous mountain in Armenia - Ararat, above the underground prison, which was used as far back as the 4th century. The views from the monastery are really amazing, however, its buildings themselves are interesting for their history and interior decoration. We advise you to visit the cells of the underground prison, which have survived to this day and the Church of Our Lady.
14. Republic Square in Yerevan
The architecture of the Republic Square was created before 1958, it is formed by five buildings located here: the building of the Central Post Office, the National Historical Museum of Armenia, the Ministry of Energy of the country, the Government of Armenia and the Marriott Armenia Hotel. It is noteworthy that all the buildings are laid out from a pouffe and represent a single architectural ensemble. We advise you to visit the square in the evening, when the singing fountain turns on here, changing the illumination.
15. Tsitsernakaberd
This memorial Complex, erected on the hill of the same name and dedicated to the Armenian genocide at the beginning of the 20th century. Tsitsernakaberd includes a 44-meter stele, a pedestal in the form of a cone with a burning eternal flame, a wall of mourning and the Museum of the Armenian Genocide. The stele is split, which symbolizes the separation of the Armenian people, most of whom live in the diaspora precisely because of the genocide. The place is beautiful, memorable and a little sad.
16. Geghard Monastery
Geghard is one of the most favorite tourist places in Armenia because of its ancient history, unique architecture and proximity to the capital of the country. Geghard is located 40 kilometers from Yerevan, in the picturesque gorge of the mountain river Goght. The monastery is built on the rocks, many rooms are simply hollowed out inside the rocks, and the stone walls are decorated with steles with crosses.
What to see in Armenia in one or two weeks or a long weekend (3-4 days).
Logical travel routes by day, a list of the main sights of Armenia with photos, descriptions and coordinates of each city, monastery, natural wonder
Routes in Armenia
When planning a holiday in Armenia, consider (a) the season, (b) the availability of a car, (c) the number of days.
From April to October, all must sees are available, from November to March, due to snow in the mountains, you will have to cross something out.
Route 1. Day trips from Yerevan
You arrived in Yerevan for 3-4 days, do you want to quickly see the city and its surroundings? Rent accommodation in Yerevan and ride around the sights of Armenia in one day, returning to the capital in the evening.
By taxi, car or excursion from Yerevan, you will have time to see several places in one day.
On minibuses, too, really, just longer. Monasteries and view points away from the highway, minibuses do not reach them. You still have to take a taxi.
Day 1. watching Yerevan
Day 2 West: Zvartnots temple (15 km), Holy Etchmiadzin (20 km)
East: Garni pagan temple (30 km), Stone Symphony, Geghard monastery (40 km)
Day 3 South: Khor Virap (40 km) and Noravank (120 km) monasteries
Day 4 Northeast: ski resort Tsaghkadzor (60 km) and Lake Sevan (70 km)
Route 2. TOP-10 of Armenia at a gallop
You are in a car/taxi and are ready for a long journey – you will have time to see the center and south of Armenia. Route for hardy adult travelers. It's better to spread it out over a week. 4 days is real, but too intense.
Day 1. Watch Yerevan, spend the night
Day 2 270 km, 5 hours driving. Early departure from Yerevan. Monasteries Khor Virap and Noravank, wine in Areni. Karahunj (stone forest of Goris), overnight at Harsnadzor barrel hotel
Day 3 300 km, 7 hours driving. It's unlikely that you will have time, look at the priorities. Ropeway "Wings of Tatev", Tatev Monastery, Khndzoresk Suspension Bridge and cave city.
Further on the situation. Options:
a) we return to Yerevan, we spend the night there. 250 km, 5h by car
b) we go to Jermuk to the Mermaid's Hair waterfall, spend the night. 130 km, 3 hours by car on serpentines
c) for the hardy: through the mountains to Lake Sevan through the Selim pass. 260-280 km, 5h+ driving. Detailed itinerary below, available from April to October only. We will spend the night in Sevan or Dilijan.
Day 4 On the way from Lake Sevan we stop at the pagan temple of Garni, at the Basalt stones and the temple of Geghard in the rock. We return to Yerevan in the afternoon, rent a car, fly home.
If you are particularly interested in a particular day, click on it to view the photo and find out the details.
Day 2 or 3. Surroundings of Yerevan
Yerevan - Zvartnots - Etchmiadzin - Garni - Geghard - Overnight in Yerevan
Yerevan- Zvartnots Echmiadzin- Garni- Geghar d
▫ Temple of Zvartnots, 15 km- "Temple of Vigilant Angels", the most unusual of ancient temples Armenia, on the UNESCO list. Entrance 1300 AMD (2.7$/170r)
Coordinates: 40.161230, 44.336346
Tue-Sat: 10.00-17.00, Sun: 10.00-15.00
Day off: Monday
▫ Holy Etchmiadzin, 20 km- the main Council in the Armenian Apostolic Church. One of the oldest spiritual centers in the country, the Armenian analogue of the Vatican.
Located in the city of Vagharshapat. In 2-3 hours you can visit by minibus and return to Yerevan.
Coordinates: 40.161941, 44.291140
the main temple is open 7.00-21.00
▫ Garni (30 km)- pagan temple Built in the 1st century AD, restored during the union. In the village of Garni for a long time there was a summer residence of the kings. Entrance 1500 drams (3$ / 200r), parking 200d.
Near Garni, see the Stone Symphony ("Basalt Organ").
The pagan temple of Garni
▫ Geghard (40 km)– the monastery, as it were, grows out of the rock, merges with the surrounding landscapes. The temple has a sacred spring with healing water. At the foot they sell delicious pies stuffed with honey.
On the minibus, plan 3-4 hours, you have to walk 6 km from the bus stop or take a taxi. Faster and more convenient by car from Yerevan Garni + Geghard (they are nearby).
Day 4. We go to the south of Armenia
Yerevan - Khor Virap - wine in Areni - Noravank - Jermuk
Yerevan- Khor Virap- Areni- Noravank- Jermuk
▫ Khor Virap Monastery (40 km) with a panorama of Mount Ararat is the most visited attraction in the vicinity of Yerevan. From the walls of the monastery you can see the border with Turkey.
Look for a bus to Pokr Vedi or Artashat. Then from the stop you have to walk to the monastery for 1 km.
gps: 39.878374, 44.576059
Khor Virap Monastery overlooking Ararat
🍷 Areni- a village 12 km from Yeghegnazdor. There are caves and a church. Famous for local wine, there are a couple of wineries. They offer to taste or buy ordinary and fruit wine, cognac, chacha.
▫ Noravank Monastery, 120 km from Yerevan and 80 km from Khor Virap. Noravank in the red canyon and the cave of swallows is one of the brightest places in Armenia, and not so much the monastery itself, but the road leading to it and the views.
Noravank away from main road before reaching the town of Yeghegnadzor. We turn off the road to the right and drive along good asphalt through the mountains for 8 km. Detail
Noravank monastery in the red canyon Jermuk- a high-mountain resort, was popular in Soviet times. They even built their own airport (does not work).
There are several sanatoriums, a gallery mineral water, park and lake.
Jermuk is divided into two parts by a high canyon and, in addition to mineral water, is famous for its Mermaid Hair waterfall.
Overnight stay in Vayk, Yeghegnadzor or Jermuk - in the low season, the best 5 * Hyatt Place Jermuk in the city costs only $50.
Day 5-6. Southeast of Armenia
Jermuk - Gndevank - Shaki - Karahunj - Ropeway - Tatev - Satan's Bridge - Goris - Khndzoresk
Jermuk - Gndevank - Shaki - Karahunj - Tatev - Devil's Bridge - Goris - Khndzoresk
Overnight stay in Goris, Halidzor or Tatev. From unusual housing, the Harsnadzor barrel hotel near Halidzor (it's cold in barrels in winter!).
The sights described below are best viewed from 2 days. For one day only by car at a gallop, and in the summer, when the roads are dry. Or miss something
▫ Monastery Gndevank, one of the oldest in Armenia, stands at the bottom of the canyon in the Vayots gorge, and not at the top, like other churches. In Jermuk they offer bus tours to Gndevank monastery, gps: 39.759125, 45.610763
Monastery Gndevank
▫ Shaki waterfall near Sisian is used to generate electricity. Turn on by prior arrangement only when there are tourists, gps: 39.552528, 45.993874
▫ Karahunj(Zorats-Karer), it is also called “ stone forest Goris” or Armenian Stowhenge, gps: 39.552011, 46.028759
According to different versions, there was an ancient observatory, a cemetery, a corral for cattle. Place of power.
223 basalt stones stand in a certain order on a mountain plateau at an altitude of 1770m above the sea. The height of the stones is from one and a half to 2.8 meters.
It is located 3 km north of Sisian. Drive on dirt road. story about
▫ Cableway and Tatev Monastery, 250 km from Yerevan — longest in Europe cable car, is called "Wings of Tatev" in honor of the monastery to which it leads, gps: 39.417165, 46.297744
Start of the cable car near the village of Halidzor. One way price - 3000 AMD, two ways 5000 AMD($10 / 670r), children (up to 110 cm) - 100 AMD
The last departure from Halidzor is at 17.30, after 16.30 two-way tickets are not sold. Day off: Monday
We park the car in the parking lot in Halidzor, go to the Tatev Monastery on the cable car, look and return for the car.
You can also go to the bridge of Satan under the cable car. You need to make a circle and go down to the bridge of Satan by car or on foot (it takes about 4 hours on foot). Bathe in mineral springs under the bridge.
▫ Goris(240 km from Yerevan) - relatively Big City in the south of Armenia. There are many guest houses, a bank and several cafes.
In Goris, visiting the cave cities (huge holes in the rocks, where people lived 50-60 years ago). Now some caves are used as warehouses.
There are cave cities not only in Goris, but also in several villages to the east of the city.
The city of Goris is also pink
▫ Khndzoresk, aka Khndzoresk - watch the cave city and the suspension bridge across the abyss at a height of 60 meters from the ground. Built several years ago, gps: 39.500886, 46.432545
We did not reach the suspension bridge, because the road turned into a mess. Afraid to get stuck. Asphalt is not laid there. In summer, when the road is dry, it should be approx.
Suspension bridge to Khndzoresk
Day 7. Selim Pass and Lake Sevan
Selim - Caravanserai - Noratus - Hayravank - Sevanavank - Tsaghkadzor - Dilijan
Vardenyats Pass- Orbelian Caravansarai- Noratus- Hayravank- Sevanavank- Dilijan
If we leave Goris or Tatev in the morning, we manage to do the following:
▫ Selim pass, also known as Vardenyats Pass - a direct road to Lake Sevan from the south of Armenia. You need to get to Yeghegnadzor and go north along M10. The road is good, but mountains + altitude = snow from November to March.
At the end of March, everything was clean until the first break. We got stuck at the pass when we missed the oncoming lane. Then the porridge started. When there is snow, it is better not to drive a passenger car. The views are very beautiful, in the summer it should be cool.
Armenians save the car
▫ Selim caravanserai, on the map in Google it is called Orbelian Caravansarai - caravans stopped here when they walked along the Silk Road from Persia to Asia and to the Black Sea. GPS: 39.949811, 45.235895
The caravanserai was covered with snow, snowdrifts of 2 meters
▫ Noratus(Noratus) near the city of Gavar - a cemetery of khachkars near Lake Sevan, gps: 40.375512, 45.182528
Khachkar cemetery Noratus ▫ Hayravank monastery over Sevan near Gavar - few people reach it, but the view of Lake Sevan from its walls is more picturesque. The monastery itself is rough, small. I like it. GPS: 40.433796, 45.108266
Hayravank monastery above Sevan ▫ Sevanavank. Sevan peninsula and Sevanavank monastery tourist place on Lake Sevan. The church stands on a hill, you need to climb the steep steps for a couple of minutes. GPS: 40.564105, 45.010679
Sevanavank Monastery on the Sevan Peninsula
▫ Sevan whitefish and crayfish. If you want to eat whitefish (local) or crayfish in Sevan, go to Collette restaurant overlooking the lake. Tasty and inexpensive. Fish shish kebab – 1500 AMD/portion. Also an Armenian advised.
The restaurant stands on the highway if you drive from Sevanavank towards Dilijan along the M4. You need to drive from the monastery literally 3 km along the lake
Restaurant Collette is a two-storey green building on the shore of Sevan
▫ Tsaghkadzor– a ski resort 30 km from Lake Sevan. Season until mid-March
Overnight stay in Sevan, Tsaghkadzor or Dilijan (for example, in the forest on the mountain in the traditional Armenian house Ecokayan Dilijan Resort )
Sevan - the Armenian sea Day 8. Dilijan and surroundings
Dilijan - Goshavank - Haghartsin - Lermontovo (Fioletovo)
The north of Armenia is also beautiful, I even made a travel itinerary for that region, but it didn’t work out.
We went in March, the weather was cloudy, we had had enough of monasteries, the bald mountains were no longer so admired, so the surroundings of Dilijan and Alaverdi were left for the next time. Better in summer there, or at least when the sun is shining.
Sights of the north of Armenia:
- Dilijan– sightseeing of the city, you can walk in the mountains on foot (there are eco-paths)
- Haghartsin monastery in the forest
- Goshavank monastery
- Russian villages of Old Believers Fioletovo and Lermontovo
- Monastery Makaravank
Monument to the heroes of the film "Mimino" in sunny Dilijan
Day 9. Lori region
I traveled by bus on that road 3 times. Indescribable beauty. The road is ok when compared with the highway to Tatev. Near Alaverdi you can see:
Haghpat Monastery and to the north of it - Akhtala(beautiful frescoes), to the south - Sanahin and church Odzun(go for the sake of landscapes and the oldest relief image of Orthodox saints in the world)
Haghpat Monastery
Day 10. Extinct volcano
Aragats - Amberd - Lake Kari - Artashavan (Alphabet Square)
Return to Yerevan
These attractions are available from June to early October. In winter and spring, it is difficult to visit Aragats because of the snow. There is a serpentine (leaky asphalt).
- Extinct volcano Aragats- the most high mountain in Armenia (4094 m)
- Amberd fortress- an ancient fortress built on the slope of Mount Aragats at an altitude of 2200 m. Near the fortress there is an old church
- Lake Kari– Alpine lake on Mount Aragats at an altitude of 3200 m
- Alphabet Square in the village of Artashavan, 30 km from Yerevan, on the slope of Mount Aragats. I'm not sure if it's worth a special trip by transport, but if on the way, you can drop by
Lake Kari on Mount Aragats
Conclusion
For two weeks, all the sights of Armenia listed above can only be reached by car. Day 5 And day 8 in this route is very busy, you can not have time to see everything.
Lake Sevan in winter day 7) it is better to go along the M4 highway from Yerevan, because you can get stuck at the Selim pass when you are driving from the south of Armenia.
Day 10 only from June to early October, when there is no snow on Mount Aragats.
If you travel by minibuses and on foot, feel free to add another week or remove some points from the route.
Hitchhiking is also an issue. There are kind people in Armenia and a good stop, but many monasteries are located in the mountains far from the highway, so there may not be cars.
If you know what else interesting places can be seen in Armenia, please write in the comments :)
Sunshine to you and Armenian hospitality!
Mila Demenkova
Armenia is a country with a very ancient culture that has survived to this day. Various sights of Armenia, and unusual, but very tasty local kitchen will not leave you indifferent. Returning from Armenia, you will forever take a piece of this country with you. And after a while, you want to come back again. And in order to be completely tempted, we offer you a list of the most interesting sights of Armenia, which are worth paying special attention to.
What to see in Armenia?
The main and most interesting places in the country with photos and descriptions.
1. Blue Mosque
Today, the Blue Mosque is the only Muslim creed in all of Yerevan. The history of this famous landmark of Armenia began in 1766. Built on the orders of the great Khan Huseynali Khan Qajar, it has been an adornment of the city throughout its existence. Unfortunately, the mosque did not survive in its original form, and only one of the four minarets has survived to this day. Many pilgrims, leaving the mosque, feel irresistible happiness and peace.
The temple is quite inconspicuous, it is almost impossible to see from the street. To do this, you will have to go through the archway, and after passing the apricot grove, go straight to the mosque. The blue dome will not let you doubt that you have come to the right place.
2. Noravank monastery complex
Noravank monastery complex was built in the XIII-XIV centuries. The literal translation means "new monastery". At one time, this monastery received bishops within its walls and was last resort princes Orbelyans, whose graves can be seen on the territory of Noravank. All parts of the monastery include two church buildings and one chapel. Surb Astvatsatsin Church is the main attraction. With its unusual entrance on the second floor and an unusual double staircase without a railing, it significantly limits the number of tourists visiting. Not every person decides to climb it, risking falling to the bottom.
Surb Karapet - the second church, looks less elegant, although it was built in the 13th century. The architecture was seriously damaged several times by local earthquakes. Given the historical significance and location surrounded by picturesque nature, Norvank is a landmark of Armenia, which is worth a visit for a tourist.
3. Grand Cascade in Yerevan
If you come to the capital of Armenia, be sure to visit the main attraction of Yerevan - the Grand Cascade. Climbing this man-made structure, you will see many ordered sculptures, stone stairs of various lengths and widths. Fountains and flower beds pleasantly refresh and fill the air with unique aromas. All this man-made beauty is located on one of the slopes of the Kanaker hills in the heart of the city itself. The cascade is undeniably considered the decoration of the city, and from its top opens one of the most the best views to the city and the peaks of the famous Ararat. If you come to the Cascades at night, you can see the fabulous landscape of Yerevan at night.
4. Ararat
Each country has its own pride, the people of which admire and this attraction makes many tourists come. For Armenia it is famous mountain Ararat. The mountain consists of two peaks: Small and Big Ararat. The highest of them divides the mountain in half, giving part of it to Turkish possessions. The mountain is considered sacred, and according to legend, it was on the top of this mountain that Noah's ark found its refuge. Pilgrims strive to get to the top, and the inhabitants of the country themselves consider this matter ungodly. In order to climb the mountain, it is enough to obtain a special permit from the authorities of the country, and to be in good physical shape.
5. Lake Sevan
We have already seen that the natural sights of Armenia are amazing. Another proof of this is Sevan. This alpine lake spreads its clear and pure waters at an altitude of 1916 meters above sea level. Surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks and banks immersed in greenery, the lake attracts lovers of contemplation, and for good reason. Once on the shore, you can look at it for a very long time, and not even feel that time has passed unnoticed. The locals revere this sacred lake and believe that the gods themselves drink from its waters. Along the shore of Lake Sevan, on this moment, has about 250 thousand inhabitants. They have created excellent conditions for living and recreation of tourists, which can be used by any traveler.
6. Erebuni
For those wishing to travel by time machine, Armenia has the opportunity to visit the ruins of the Erebuni Fortress. As mentioned above, this is an ancient country, and the first stone capital was built 2.7 thousand years ago. It was not only the capital of ancient Armenia, but also a fairly serious defensive structure that protected the locals. Located in the picturesque valley of Ararat, the ancient fortress is a treasure trove useful information for archaeologists. To this day, they find many useful and unusual artifacts. It is enough to walk around the fortress on your own to make sure that the people of this country could perfectly stand up for themselves many centuries ago.
7. Geghardavank Monastery
Geghardavank Monastery is a truly unique and inimitable place in Armenia, included in the UNESCO heritage list. According to legend, it was in this monastery that for a very long time the monks kept a spear with which one of the guards pierced Jesus Christ when he was hanging on the cross. The first stone monastery on this site was founded in the 4th century. But the regular raids of the Arabs did not go unnoticed, the monastery was destroyed. At the moment, the complex consists of several churches and a special cave with a spring. The monastery of Geghardavank does not attract with its bright decoration, it is a true abode of hermits who decided to devote their lives to the Orthodox faith. However, this place is a very popular tourist destination in Armenia.
8. Temple of Garni
The Temple of Garni is another proof that the architectural sights of Armenia are worth the attention of tourists. Anyone who first enters the territory of this temple, orderly rows of Greek and Roman columns come to mind. And indeed, even within the country, the name of the temple “Armenian Parthenon” has taken root. But oddly enough, it has nothing to do with Ancient Greece. And slender columns, well-preserved mosaics and porticos were erected on the orders of local kings by local builders. For many centuries, the Temple of Mihr in Garni was used as a summer residence, and great people regularly rested in its vaults. After the last earthquake, the temple was completely restored and is available to tourists as a historical site.
9. History Museum of Armenia
Located in the capital, the Historical Museum of Armenia was founded in 1921 together with an art gallery. If they decided to leave the paintings on the upper floors of the complex, then the museum itself is located on two underground levels. If you are interested in the history of the country from the very beginning to the present day in interesting details, the guides will be happy to take you through all the halls and tell you everything in order. You will be able to see with your own eyes the archaeological department, the department of numismatics and historical architecture. It is difficult to list all the artifacts that the modern museum owns. Moreover, the exposition is constantly updated with new finds of archaeologists. As they say, it is better to see once.
10. Etchmiadzin Cathedral
To get into it sacred place, you will first have to get to the city of Vagharshapat. Despite its nondescriptness, the temple is an excellent example of 4th century architecture, and after many alterations and improvements, it has come down to us in its original form. But this did not affect its attractive and ascetic architecture in any way. No wonder the building was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Etchmiadzin Cathedral is not just a temple, but a stronghold of faith of the Apostolic Church of Armenia, and attracts many pilgrims to its walls. You can view the temple not only from the outside, but also go inside. The pointed bell towers stand out a little against the background of other religious buildings, but do not spoil general impression from visiting.
11. Sevanavank Monastery
This beautiful Armenian attraction is located on the shores of the high-mountain lake Sevan. Like other monasteries in Armenia, Sevanavank attracts tourists and pilgrims with its unusual view and landscape. He has a very unusual story. For centuries, Sevanavank was located on the island, which was surrounded by the waters of Sevan. But in 1981, they began to build a special drainage tunnel, completed in 2003. He dramatically reduced the size of the lake, and the island turned into a peninsula. But this had no effect on unique look to the lake, which opens from the territory of the Sevanavank monastery and a view of the snow-capped mountain peaks. Near the temple there are remains of an older structure that you can touch with your own hands.
12. Temple of Zvartnots
The temple of Zvartnots has not survived to this day. On the hill you can see only grandiose ruins, which easily guess the majestic building. Numerous archaeologists have found many artifacts, including a miniature model of Zvartnotsok. Built in the middle of the year 600, the temple stood on top of the hill for almost 300 years. And only during the strongest earthquake in 930, it was completely destroyed under its own weight. At the moment, on the square of the complex, you can consider possible reconstructions of the temple according to historical descriptions.
13. Tatev Monastery Complex
Of all the monastic complexes in Armenia, Tatev is perhaps the most visited and unusual. In order to get into it, you will need to drive 20 km from the village of Goris. And along with hundreds of other tourists, get into the walls of an ancient Orthodox monastery. Tatev began its history in the 9th century AD, but this is not the only reason why it became famous. For those who are not afraid of cable cars, they can visit the "Wings of Tetev" and feel the greatness of the ancient builders. Surrounded by mountains, a natural bridge and a cave were formed under the general name of Satani Kamurj. This unique object also attracts curious glances. Several ancient temples of one of the first Christians and other interesting sights will not let you get bored during the day.
14. Khor Virap Monastery
At the highest and beautiful mountain Ararat, the monastery of Khor Virap spread its ancient walls. Its walls were a medieval prison, keeping criminals behind thick walls and secure bars in the 4th century AD. Since then, everything has changed a lot, and the monastery is used only for church purposes. But for curious tourists, the cells of the underground prison retained their original gloominess and forever absorbed the state of hopelessness of the prisoners. The contrast of the dungeon is incredible beauty a landscape that opens from the walls of the monastery to the snow-covered Mount Ararat. Thanks to the cleanest air and the absence of clouds, the mountain is perfectly visible for most of the year. This is one of the most visited attractions in Armenia.
Armenia is one of the most ancient states on earth. In many ways, in connection with this, the country received a second name - an open-air museum.
👁 Before we start... where to book a hotel? In the world, not only Booking exists (🙈 for a high percentage of hotels - we pay!). I have been using Rumguru for a long time
skyscanner
👁 And finally, the main thing. How to go on a trip, perfect without bothering? The answer is in the search form below! Buy . This is such a thing that includes flights, accommodation, meals and a bunch of other goodies for good money 💰💰 The form is below!.
Sights of Armenia. The most interesting and main attractions of cities and regions of Armenia: photos and descriptions, location. What to see in Armenia in winter for a tourist.
Armenia is one of the most ancient states on earth. In many ways, in connection with this, the country received a second name - an open-air museum.
There are more than 40 thousand historical monuments on the territory of the country. And most of it are Christian monasteries and churches.
highest density the main attractions of Armenia concentrated in the vicinity of Yerevan and Kumayri.
Yerevan
There are many monuments on the territory of the city, including one of the oldest temples in Europe - Zvartnots, the construction of which dates back to the 7th century AD, the center of the Armenian-Gregorian Church of Etchmiadzin, magnificent temples Hripsime And Gayane, as well as world famous Ancient Manuscript Institute. Beautiful in the capital of Armenia zoo And Botanical Garden, the remains of an ancient Roman fortress and a mosque of the XVIII century. We advise you to visit historical Museum, in which there are many interesting exhibits, such as the keys to Yerevan fortress and numerous samples of clothing and utensils of the townspeople.
Cross carved from stone. This Armenian phenomenon is a symbol of the centuries-old and severe suffering of the people, sacrifices and blood loss. The monument is one of the most impressive sights of Armenia .
Pagan Temple in Garni
The fortress and temple of Garni was built in the 3rd millennium BC. Previously, this place was a cyclopean ancient church - Berdshena. During the reign of the kings from the Yervandid dynasty, Garni was their residence and the place of stay of their troops. Another outstanding work of ancient architects is the Princely residence of Tsar with the churches of Surb Sargis, Surb Grigor and Surb Astvatsatsin and the monastery of Getamech (XII-XIII centuries AD). The greatest miracle of Armenia is the Gandzasar Monastery (1216-1238), often referred to as the pearl of architecture.
An ancient monastery, the first buildings of which were erected in the 4th century AD. Its name translates as "spear". According to an old legend, this monastery kept the spear with which the Roman guards pierced Jesus Christ.
Memorial Complex
The monument to the victims of the Armenian genocide is located on the hill of Tsitsernakaberd. The construction was completed in 1965, on the half-century anniversary of the genocide. Architecturally, it represents a 44-meter stele, symbolizing the rebirth of the Armenian people. Next to the stele are 12 pylons, in the center of which is an eternal flame. Nearby are bas-reliefs that describe a tragic page in the life of Armenia.
The main natural attraction of Armenia. On the territory adjacent to the lake there is a beautiful national park, which includes the lake itself, the depth of which reaches 86 meters, and the area is more than 1200 square kilometers. The nearby Khorovsky Nature Reserve is home to jackals, lynxes, Syrian bears and wild boars. Also in Armenia there are wonderful resorts such as Dilijan, Tsaghkadzor, Jermuk and many others.
👁 Do we always book a hotel on Booking? In the world, not only Booking exists (🙈 for a high percentage of hotels - we pay!). I have been using Rumguru for a long time, it is really more profitable 💰💰 Booking.
👁 And for tickets - in air sales, as an option. It has been known about him for a long time. But there is a better search engine - skyscanner - more flights, lower prices! 🔥🔥.
👁 And finally, the main thing. How to go on a trip, perfect without bothering? Buy . This is such a thing, which includes flights, accommodation, meals and a bunch of other goodies for good money 💰💰.
