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. A thousand-year-old observatory, mountain villages where houses were built a couple of hundred years ago, the ruins of fortresses - all this can be seen in Armenia.
And very hospitable people live here, tourist tours are very cheap, accommodation for the night is also. 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 through 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.
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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 arranged in an incomprehensible to modern people, but 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. The harmoniously developed architectural ensemble of 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 highest peak of the Lesser Caucasus - Mount Aragats with a height of 4090 meters - is located precisely 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, the 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 is a 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 places in Armenia for tourists 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.
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.
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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.
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Khor Virap Monastery, 45 km from Yerevan, stands almost at the foot of Ararat - the mountain is so close that it seems you can reach it. And yet, the symbol of Armenia is located abroad, on the territory of Turkey.
There are cafes on every corner in the capital of Armenia, but if you want to get the most out of it, you should not sit at the table: go around the hospitable city, where summer lasts from May to October, and then take a car or sightseeing bus ride around its surroundings.
1. Think about the soul
It is worth going to Yerevan at least to look at Ararat. In clear weather, it can be seen in its entirety, from the foot to the top, and there are no other mountain ranges around that obscure this unusually majestic, even exciting spectacle. The mountain, to which Noah's ark moored in ancient times, is always different: it changes color from blue to pink, then suddenly disappears completely, then it shows only the top with clouds adhering to it. It is simply impossible to take your eyes off the mountain. Against such a powerful background, everything around is filled with a completely different meaning and it becomes clear why Ararat is more than a beautiful mountain for Armenians all over the world. This is our soul.
-----BR-----2. bow to the saint
A trip to the capital of Armenia is rarely limited to the city itself - Yerevan is surrounded by amazing sights. One of them, the monastery of Khor Virap, stands practically at the foot of Ararat - it is good to sit here on a low stone fence and, looking at the mountain, plunge into thoughts about the eternal. The temple was built on the site of an underground dungeon, into which Tsar Trdat III threw St. Gregory the Illuminator to certain death. But when, 15 years later, the surviving prisoner cured Trdat of an illness, he unconditionally accepted his faith, and Gregory the Illuminator became the first Armenian Catholicos. A chapel was first built on this site, and then a monastery with a theological seminary.
Stone khachkars decorated with carved crosses are countless throughout the country.
3. Touch the stone lace
Wherever you go, you will meet khachkars everywhere - stone slabs with openwork crosses carved on them. There are about 900 khachkars in the village of Noraduz on Lake Sevan alone. The Armenian cross itself is also remarkable - a sign of suffering bushes and sprouts with flowers, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ and the tree of life. Khachkars are not only evidence of faith, but also a kind of prayer to the Lord, which explains their common style with an endless variety of ornamental solutions. It is believed that one of the most beautiful khachkars dating back to 1291 is located in the Goshavank monastery complex. If you don't get there, go to the National Historical Museum, which has another masterpiece by the same master Poghos on display.
4. See the world through the eyes of a genius
An Armenian from Tbilisi, who lived part of his life in Kiev, Sergei Parajanov, after perestroika, was going to live in Yerevan. After the director's death, the house built for him housed the works bequeathed to Armenia. So this amazing museum appeared in the city, where you should definitely visit. Someone said about Parajanov that he was not a talent, but he was a genius. Looking at collages, installations and sculptures made from scraps of paper, glass fragments, shreds, chips, wire, you really begin to understand the difference.
Parajanov's house-museum in Yerevan may well compete with the Dali theater-museum in Figueres
5. Try dolma where they know how to cook it
Remember "Mimino": "It's just that you don't know how to cook dolma"? So, in Yerevan, of course, they know how to cook dolma. It is delicious almost everywhere, but the Dolmama restaurant is especially famous for it. (Pushkina, 10, dolma - 500 rubles)- a favorite place for foreign guests of Yerevan. In addition to the perfect dolma, the menu includes almost all the best dishes of Armenian cuisine in an impeccable modern interpretation. In addition, Dolmama has exemplary service, and in summer tables are set in a cozy courtyard. However, there are many places in Yerevan where you can eat deliciously. Excellent cuisine and atmosphere - in The Club (Tumanyan, 40, dolma - 285 rubles), which has a shop, a tearoom and a cafe. Excellent kebabs and kebabs - in the tavern "At Artash" (Moskovyana, 31, average bill - from 250 rubles), classic Armenian cuisine with Georgian inclusions - in "Kavkaz" (Hanrapetutyan, 82, the average bill - from 400 rubles.), khinkali of all possible varieties - in the restaurant "Khinkali" (Tumanyan, 21/1, average bill - from 30 rubles).
Some researchers consider Armenia to be the birthplace of dolma.
6. Make sure that dolma is not everything
Not everyone knows that Armenian cuisine exists in two versions: Eastern Armenian is common on the territory of modern Armenia, and Western Armenian is eaten by Armenians who have lived in the Middle East since time immemorial. When the repatriation policy began after the war, people coming to the Armenian SSR brought their own food with them. So in Yerevan they began to eat lamadzho (flat cakes with minced lamb), ishli-kebab (cutlets in the shell of fried bulgur) and hummus (chickpea paste). And thanks to the current wave of Armenians from Syria, new places with Western Armenian cuisine began to open up, for example, Anteb (E. Koghbatsi, 30, average bill - from 40 rubles). And don't be fooled by the modest interior - it has an excellent menu and the best lamaggios in town. Order plenty of appetizers - they are the most delicious in Middle Eastern cuisine.
7. Visit the spiritual center of the country
In the list of must-see places in the vicinity of Yerevan, in the first place, of course, Etchmiadzin is the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, which includes a cathedral, a theological seminary and the residence of the Supreme Patriarch-Catholicos of all Armenians with a wonderful museum. As you know, Armenia was the first state in the world to officially adopt Christianity in 301. The cathedral was founded two years later, so it can be considered the world's first state Christian church. The territory of this complex, planted with shady trees and flowers, is unusually good. On the way, stop at the temple built in honor of the Great Martyr Saint Hripsime. This is a real architectural masterpiece.
Buildings of Noravank - from the same stone as the rocks surrounding it
8. Find a monastery among the rocks
The Noravank monastery complex is located 112 km from the city, but the road to it is so picturesque that it does not seem tiring. In addition, it is worth making a couple of stops to explore the Areni caves and buy fresh lavash in the village bakery. Noravank itself is the same yellow-red color as the rocks and gorges surrounding it, because it was built from stone that was mined in the neighborhood. In the 13th-14th centuries, Noravank was the residence of the Orbelian princes. There are two churches, a chapel and rare beauty khachkars. And the church of Surb-Karapet is decorated with a bas-relief depicting the face of God the Father, which you can hardly see anywhere.
9. Take home the carpet
Every weekend, the section of the boulevard from the Republic Square metro station to Khanjyan Street turns into a big fair or, as Yerevan residents say, a vernissage. Here you can find an unprecedented variety of things: antiques of varying degrees of value, antique carpets, silver, author's ceramics, dishes, national musical instruments, onyx vases - the list is endless. Rows of artists and book dealers are located nearby. On the opening day, of course, it is customary to bargain, and with fun and pleasure. There are plenty of souvenir shops in the center of Yerevan. The most pleasant, called "Agsak" (Abovyan, 3/1), literally bursting with high-quality ceramics, silver, graphics, bronze copies of archaeological finds and other treasures. And books, albums, posters and CDs with ancient and modern Armenian music are sold at Artbridge Bookstore Café. (Abovyan, 20).
At the vernissage in the center of Yerevan - souvenirs for every taste and color
10. Swim in the upturned sky
Lake Sevan lies so high in the mountains that when you stand on its shore, it seems that the water surface is about to touch the sky. Pure fresh water warms up only by the middle of summer, so coming here on a hot day is salvation and joy. Around the lake, which the locals call only the sea, there are solid mountains, and the water changes color from azure to turquoise and dark blue hourly. It is good to spend the whole day here, go to the peninsula and explore the monastery complex of Sevanavank, built in 874. If you find yourself on the western coast, do not miss another wonderful monastery - Hayravank. In addition to sunscreen, take something warm with you: no matter how hot it is during the day, a cool wind always blows in Sevan in the evenings.
According to legend, stars and gods drank from the high-mountain lake Sevan
11. Visit the first museum of modern art in the USSR
It’s hard to imagine now, but the opening of the Museum of Modern Art in Yerevan in 1972 was an unprecedented phenomenon for the Soviet Union: the building itself, as if raised above the ground, seemed unusual, not to mention the contents. Before the collapse of the country, the museum was the only one of its kind. In general, Armenia has a strong pictorial tradition, and here it is easy to see the diversity of its currents. Now the museum has about 2300 exhibits, including a collection of works by Armenian artists: Minas Avetisyan, Yervand Kochar, Rudolf Khachatryan, Garzu, Gayane Khachaturyan... Exhibitions of young artists are regularly held.
12. Learn the history of the Eternal City
Yerevan turns 2795 this year, making it 30 years older than Rome. In terms of eternity, it's not such a big difference, but it's still nice. The beginning of the city was laid by the Erebuni fortress, built on a hill with the same name in 782 BC. e. King Argishti, ruler of the ancient state of Urartu. As evidenced by the plate with the text written in Urartian cuneiform, all Armenian children learn it at school. Now at the foot of the hill there is a beautiful museum with archaeological finds. Climbing the stairs to the hill, you will get to the excavations themselves, begun by the expedition of Academician B. B. Piotrovsky.
Artifacts from the times of the state of Urartu are exhibited in the Erebuni Museum
13. Listen to the duduk in his homeland
Probably, no other musical instrument is so firmly connected with the self-identification of the Armenian people as a modest-looking duduk. Made from an apricot tree (another national symbol!), it has an extraordinary sound - soft, soulful, almost unbearably poignant. For many years, this music was listened to only in their native land. It accompanied all significant events in people's lives: birth, baptism, weddings, funerals. But thanks to the brilliant performer Jivan Gasparyan, duduk has entered the musical mainstream over the past 20 years. Now the primordially Armenian instrument can be heard in Hollywood cinema, and sometimes quite unexpectedly, as, for example, in the film Onegin. And if you're lucky and your trip coincides with Gasparyan's concert, be sure to buy your tickets in advance - it's not to be missed.
14. Drink the most delicious water in the world
It is not difficult to make sure that this is the pure truth - it is enough to drink from stone fountains placed throughout the city. Which are called "pulpulak" - by analogy with the sound made by a murmuring source. Here, in general, there is a special attitude towards water, perceived as the most valuable gift of nature. In ancient times, it was in short supply and sellers with jugs walked around the city: a monument to such a peddler boy stands in one of the city parks. And in the middle of summer, the Vardavar holiday is celebrated in Yerevan, when it is supposed to pour water on everyone. Do not be offended by jokers - it is better to douse them in response.
Fountains on the central square of the Republic
15. Go down the gorge right in the city
Yerevan is one of the few cities that have their own gorge, and quite impressive in scale. It is called Hrazdan in honor of the river that flows there. Once it was a completely untouched and very picturesque corner, where there was nothing but fruit trees and the Children's Railway. Yerevan residents used to have picnics here, cooling watermelons and mineral water right in the river. Now this is not the case: in the evenings, life is in full swing in the gorge - a record number of restaurants, cafes, and hotels have been built here. But thanks to its size, there is always a place for those who just want to take a walk. For example, to the Yerevan Brandy Factory above the gorge, where the famous "Ararat" is produced. (Tsovakal Isakovi Ave., 2)- since 1998, after the purchase of the plant by the Pernod-Ricard concern, it has been called not cognac, but brandy, but the essence of this has not changed.
16. Climb to the top of the Cascade
Directly behind the Opera and Ballet Theatre, between Baghramyan and Mashtots avenues, there is a square called the Cascade. Here stands a monument to the architect Alexander Tamanyan, the founding father of modern Yerevan, who leaned over the general plan of the city. And behind it is a park with a collection of sculptures from all over the world, several cafes and a long staircase leading high up the hill, where the main observation deck of the city is located. On the way up there are five tiers, each with museums, galleries, fountains and flowering flower beds. The cascade is one of the favorite places of Yerevanians, there is always something going on here. When concerts are held, the audience sits right on the steps. If you are lucky, you will witness a fun flash mob, when all those who have gathered together dance folk dances - where else in the world can you see this?!
The lower tier of the Cascade, where Yerevan residents usually gather
17. Sit on the bench next to Frunzik Mkrtchyan
Unusual sculptures were brought to Yerevan from all over the world, such as the famous fat men Fernando Botero. But there are also purely Armenian ones among them. You already know about the seller of water, his brothers are the characters of the cult film "Men" and the backgammon player immortalized in bronze, without which not a single Yerevan courtyard can do. In addition, benches with celebrities sitting on them are placed around the city. For example, at the Moscow cinema, you can keep company with everyone's favorite Frunze Mkrtchyan. But perhaps the most touching is the monument to Karabala on Teryan Street. This strange man in rags took to the streets of post-war Yerevan every day with a bouquet of roses and gave flowers to passing girls and couples in love. No one shunned or offended the eccentric - on the contrary, everyone loved him. And in 1991, a monument was erected to Karabala, because thanks to such people the spirit of the city is formed.
18. Ride the cable car
The monastery complex of Tatev is quite far from Yerevan, a day trip is not enough here. But if you have time, be sure to arrange this trip for yourself - it will be remembered for a lifetime. You have to go to the south of Armenia, to its most beautiful part of Zangezur, through solid mountains, alpine meadows and waterfalls. The Tatev Monastery itself, built in the 10th century, seems to grow out of a giant cliff right on the edge of the cliff - medieval Armenian architects were able to fit their creations into the landscape. Previously, a serpentine led to it, but now you can climb the cable car, unique in its length, going through the picturesque Vorotan Gorge - this is where it takes your breath away. The cable car is part of a large project to revive Tatev, and in the future there will be a hotel complex here. In the meantime, spend the night in the charming town of Goris, 30 km from the monastery. For example, in the Mirhav hotel (Mashtots, 100).
A cable car with a unique length leads to the Tatev Monastery
19. Surprised by the brightness of medieval miniatures
20. Look into the temple built with the money of Nero
According to historical sources, the Armenian king Trdat I built the temple of Garni in the 1st century with the money he received after a trip to Rome to Emperor Nero. This only example of Hellenistic architecture in the former USSR stood in ruins for a long time until it was restored in 1976. And then a small Parthenon with 24 columns and bas-reliefs appeared before everyone. Nearby are excavations of the summer residence of Armenian kings with chambers, baths and mosaics. Garni is spectacularly located on the edge of a huge gorge with an extraordinary view of the steep slopes and the mountain river Azat. If you are by car, go down the gorge and look at the basalt columns rising to the sky, hanging in clusters right above the road. And one more thing: halfway to Garni, stop at the Charents arch. From the hill where it was built, a postcard view of Ararat opens, and the arch serves as a frame for it.
21. Evaluate the calculation of ancient engineers
Garni is usually combined in one trip with the Geghard monastery complex. But that's where their closeness ends. Founded in the 4th century, Geghard was a place of pilgrimage because of the relic stored in it - a spear (now in the Etchmiadzin Museum), with which Jesus crucified on the cross was pierced. It is also notable for the fact that part of it is carved inside the rock adjoining the main temple and decorated with khachkars carved in it. The rooms inside - the main church, the chapel, the burial room, etc. - are decorated with amazingly expressive reliefs. Particularly impressive is the sacristy with four columns supporting a vaulted stalactite dome with a round hole that lets in a piercing beam of light into the dungeon. How it was possible to calculate and implement such a complex project without a single mistake, it is impossible to understand. But the fact remains.
22. Listen to jazz
High-quality live music is only at first glance an unexpected attribute of the city. Jazz has always been loved and played here - in Soviet times it was an expression of inner freedom. In the legendary cafe "Float" (Isahakyan, 41) the famous musician Levon Malkhasyan performed, around whom other performers gradually began to gather. Subsequently, he opened his own jazz club "Malkhas" (Pushkina, 52/1), where wonderful concerts are held in the evenings, to which the whole city comes. Another club - Mezzo Classic House Club (Isahakyan, 28). If you don't mind listening to a real concert, look at the poster of the Cafesjian Center for Contemporary Art - it is located on the last tier of the Cascade (an escalator leads there).
23. Wander around the city at night
One of the unchanging Yerevan traditions is an evening walk. Here they meet friends, learn the latest news. Especially crowded is the building of the Armenian Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, which the locals simply call "Opera". There are continuous open cafes around, there is a nice pond and a large playground, convenient for games and roller skating. In the evenings it is so lively here that it often seems to tourists that they are on a holiday. After sunset, there are many people on the pedestrian Northern Avenue, Mesrop Mashtots Avenue, Abovyan and Sayat-Nova streets, and what's there - in the whole center. So feel free to walk until late at night - the brightly lit streets of Yerevan are completely safe and the atmosphere is the friendliest. In addition, Russians are not just treated well here - they are sincerely loved.
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: Tsakhkadzor ski resort (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– The “Temple of the Vigilant Angels”, the most unusual of the oldest temples in Armenia, is 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 is off the 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 mineral water gallery, a park and a 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 the 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 “The Stone Forest of Goris” or the 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 — the longest cable car in Europe, 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) is a relatively large 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 in 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 liked. GPS: 40.433796, 45.108266
Hayravank monastery above Sevan ▫ Sevanavank. Sevan peninsula and Sevanavank monastery is the most touristic 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 time to get fed up with monasteries, the bald mountains were no longer so admired, so the surroundings of Dilijan and Alaverdi were left for the next time. It is better to go there in the summer 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 highest 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 other interesting places you can see in Armenia, please write in the comments :)
Sunshine to you and Armenian hospitality!
Mila Demenkova
