Sevanavank Monastery

Sevanavank is located on the peninsula of Lake Sevan, founded by Gregory the Illuminator in 305. Excavations revealed that this place was inhabited in the Stone and Bronze Ages. According to the inscription on the southern wall of the Church of the Holy Apostles, the expansion and construction of the monastery in the 9th century was organized by the daughter of Ashot I Bagratuni, the founder of the royal house of Bagratuni. The surviving buildings are currently restored and available to anyone who wants to personally see the old monument. Sevanavank is one of the most recognizable historical and cultural sites of Armenia.

Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan is a wonderful “pearl” of Armenia. Guests from abroad can combine a pleasant holiday on the shores of Sevan surrounded by picturesque mountains with interesting excursions to the ancient historical monuments. It is recommended to visit such cultural attractions as Sevanavank and Hayravank monasteries, as well as the cemetery of the ancient khachkars Noratus. There is a large number of high-quality and inexpensive hotels and guest houses along the coastline of the lake where all the necessary conditions for a comfortable stay are offered. Sevan is also famous for delicious trout which is definitely worth trying in local restaurants.

Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is a medieval monastery in the Kotayk province, being partially carved out of the adjacent mountain, surrounded by cliffs. The name commonly used for the monastery today, Geghard, or more fully Geghardavank, meaning “the Monastery of the Spear”, originates from the spear which had wounded Jesus at the Crucifixion. It is believed, that the spear was brought to Armenia by Apostle Jude, called here Thaddeus, and stored amongst many other relics. Now it is displayed in the Echmiadzin treasury. The monastery complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with enhanced protection status.

HAGHARTSIN MONASTERY

Haghartsin Monastery is located among the mountain forests of Tavush province, about 18 km from Dilijan city. There is a beautiful legend about the origin of the name of the monastery. According to it an eagle flew around the dome of the main church during the opening ceremony of the monastery, and that was the reason for calling the sanctuary the monastery of playing (or flying) eagle – Haghartsin (“hagh” means a game while “Artsin” a form of “Artsiv” means eagle in Armenian).

Haghpat Monastery

Haghpat monastery complex is located in the north of Armenia. The complex consists of several buildings: a bell tower, a narthex, churches, a refectory and a scriptorium. The buildings were erected at different times, the earliest of them dates from the 10th century. For several hundred years, Haghpat was not only a religious, but also an educational center. Many ancient manuscripts and books were written here. It is believed that Hovhannes Imastaser, who is a well-known theologian, poet and philosopher in Armenia, lived here. His works were known not only in the territory of his native country, but also in Georgia.

Tatev Monastery

Tatev Monastery (IX-X century) is located in Syunik province. The monastery has a rich history. Tatev was not only a spiritual, but also an educational center. One of the best universities, where the humanities were studied, functioned here during the Middle Ages. The monastery buildings stand almost on the edge of a steep cliff, from where visitors can admire a stunning picturesque scenery of the gorge. The path to the monastery was quite long and difficult years ago, by car it was necessary to get to the place along the mountainous road-serpentine. However, after the opening of Tatever ropeway (Wings of Tatev), the path to the attraction takes very short time. It also gives a lot of amazing unforgettable impressions. It should be mentioned that Wings of Tatev holds the record for the longest non-stop double track cable car.

JERMUK WATERFALL

Jermuk waterfall is located in Jermuk city. The city is surounded by cliffs at a height of 2080 meters above sea level. The city is located in the south-eastern part of the Republic of Armenia, in Vayots Dzor province (historic district of Vayots Dzor province of Syunik province). Jermuk waterfall has a height of 72 meters and splits into the Arpa river, and reminds the girl’s hair. From here comes another name for the waterfall – Mermaid’s hair.

GARNI TEMPLE

Garni Temple is the only pagan monument preserved on the territory of Armenia. It is located on the edge of the gorge from where a visitor can enjoy a stunning view of the majestic mountains. The temple is dedicated to Mithra, the pagan god of the Sun. The ornaments decorating the top of the architectural monument amaze with their beauty and complexity. The place was very appreciated by Armenian kings for inaccessibility and excellent climate, so as a result this territory became their summer residence. The whole complex consists of a Roman bath, a royal summer palace and a 7th-century church. The Roman bath contains a mosaic, which is crafted from fifteen different colours of natural stones. In 2011 UNESCO awarded the Museum-Reservation of Garni the Melina Mercouri International Prize.

SANAHIN MONASTERY

There is an ancient Sanahin village located near Alaverdi city, in Lori province. The village is famous for the eponymous monastery complex (10-13 century). Sanahin was originally intended for exiled monks who were hiding from the persecution of the Byzantine emperor. The complex was erected on the initiative of the Armenian king Ashot III Voghormats (Merciful) in 966. Subsequently, Sanahin became not only a spiritual, but also an educational center. The school opened here was turned into an academy where prominent figures of Armenian science of the Middle Ages taught. Sanahin monastery complex is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

LAKE PARZ

Lake Parz is formed by springs. The length is 300 m, the width – 100 m. Average depth is 3 m, approximate – 10 m. The surface of the lake is 0,027 m2, mass – 83,8 cubic meters. The lake is surrounded by forests. Water in the lake is transparent, a little greenish. As the forests are very close to the shoreline, the massive trees, leaning to the lake, are reflected in the water. The name “Parz lich” literally means “clear lake”. There are many cozy restaurants and cafes in the area of the lake where you can spend your time, ride horses or organize a family picnic. This site is one of the most famous natural landmark of Dilijan.

ARENI WINERY

People who appreciate good wines and are interested in the history of ancient architecture, will definitely fall in love with the tiny Armenian Areni village. The “Areni Wine” festival has been arranged here every autumn since 2009; over 100 types of finest Armenian wines are presented at the festival and visitors can taste and purchase young and old wines manufactured at the Areni winery.

SHAKI WATERFALL

Shaki waterfall is located on the Shaki River (a tributary of the Vorotan) in the north of Sisian city. The territory of the waterfall is very picturesque. You can see many small grottoes and caves here, and the waterfall itself has a truly fabulous sight. The noise and power of the waterfall, falling from a height of 18 meters, is so strong that it drowns out human voices and any other sounds.

CHARENTS ARCH

Driving along the Yerevan-Garni highway, you can see the Charents Arch on the right side of the road on a hill. The monument is named after the great Armenian poet and great patriot Yeghishe Charents. It is believed that he often visited this place and loved to enjoy the fantastic scenery opening from here. Simple at first glance, the stone arch is actually a very interesting monument. The fact is that from here a stunning view of the great biblical mountain Ararat opens all day long. Therefore, the second name of the monument is the Arch of Ararat. This place is a favorite and popular attraction. Tourists visiting Armenia come here to enjoy the breathtaking views and take photos.

BGHENO-NORAVANK MONASTERY

The medieval monastery complex Bgheno-Noravank is located 3-4 km east of Bardzravan (Yeritsatumb) village in Syunik province, on the right bank of the Vorotan River, on a triangular terrace surrounded by forested gorges. With its unique architectural design it is one of the unique monuments of Armenia. There are reliefs depicting Jesus Christ’s life on the outer walls of the church.

Mount Dimats

Mount Dimats is located in the eastern part of Armenia and is known for its beautiful landscapes and unique ecosystem. Mount Dimats is rich in flora and fauna, and many rare species can be found here.

Arch of Dreams

Jermuk is a famous resort town located in one of the highland regions of Armenia and has healing springs and beautiful landscapes. Here you can enjoy the water of the healing springs and relax in the fantastic parks. The arch also organizes various cultural events that contribute to the preservation of the traditions of the region. The combination of nature and a healthy environment provides an unparalleled opportunity for relaxation.