The summer residence of the Armenian Kings
ID: GYG703913-1152860
Category:
Country: Armenia
Duration:
07:30 hours
Description
Discover Armenia: Visit Khor Virap Monastery, Garni Temple, and Geghard Monastery. Enjoy breathtaking views, ancient history, and bake traditional lavash bread.
Our tour of Armenia starts in the morning, we will visit the monastery of Khor Virap. Armenia is famous for many sights, but one place is special and resonates in the soul of every armenian! The Khor Virap Monastery is located near the capital, offering a fascinating view of the biblical Mount Ararat."Khor Virap" translates as "deep dungeon". The monastery was built on the site of the former royal dungeon, where Gregory the Illuminator, the first Catholicos of Armenia, was held for 13 years. Therefore, it is not surprising that this is one of the most sacred places for Armenians from all over the world.
Next, we will visit the arch "Egishe Charents". It was erected in honor of the famous poet, who incredibly loved his homeland. The arch is located in a picturesque place, and you will admire the amazing views of the mountain Ararat and take unique photos.
The next stop of our tour is the pagan temple of Garni!
Garni is 28 km far from Yerevan. It is the only monument preserved on the territory of Armenia dating back to the pagan era and the only monument of the Hellenistic era in the territory of the former USSR. The temple was awarded the UNESCO Prize.
Due to its strategic location and pleasant cool weather, the fortress was a favorite place of the Armenian kings and was their summer residence.
Also get ready to be amazed by the splendor of the beauty of the "Symphony of Stones".This geological work, located in the Garni Valley, is a symphony of colors, textures and shapes that will leave you speechless. From colossal basalt columns to complex formations resembling a chamber orchestra, each step reveals a new chapter in this mesmerizing symphony.
After that, we will visit the Geghard monastery complex, which appeared in the distant Middle Ages. It was carved from a granite monolith, and natural grottos and caves served as cells for monks in it.
The monks here gave shelter and food to belated travelers who did not dare to pass through the gorge after dark.
Geghard has earned fame as one of the most significant monuments of human history, and is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
There is a special atmosphere here, you will feel the special energy of this place.
Also during the tour, there will be a master class of baking Armenian famous bread lavash. Fresh, fragrant bread can be tasted with cheese and local herbs, which is a favorite snack of every Armenian. We are sure that you will have a lot of breathtaking photos and vivid memories of our country!
Highlights
- Visit Khor Virap Monastery with stunning views of Mount Ararat.
- Explore Garni Temple and the breathtaking Symphony of Stones.
- Experience baking and tasting traditional Armenian lavash bread.
- Discover the ancient Geghard Monastery.
Guiding languages
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.