Akhtpat Monastery, in Lori, Armenia, is a 10th-century UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded by King Ashot III, it was a major center of religion, education, and manuscript creation. The complex includes the Church of Surb Nshan, gavits, smaller churches, a library, mausoleums, and khachkars, showcasing Armenia’s rich medieval architecture and cultural heritage.

The Odzun Monastery and domed basilica in central Odzun date back to the 4th century, built by King Trdat III. The main church, Surb Astvatsatsin, preserves 4th-century reliefs and unique architectural features. The complex includes 19th-century bell towers and remains an important cultural and spiritual center in Armenia.

Ahtala is a town in Lori, Armenia, known for the 13th-century Church of the Holy Mother of God with its frescoes, a 10th-century fortress, and the Zakaryan Palace. A historic center of copper mining, a mint, and a multicultural settlement, it attracts visitors with its architecture, ancient fortifications, and festivals.

Khor Virap Monastery is one of Armenia’s most sacred historical sites, located on the Ararat plain near the ancient capital Artashat. In 301 AD, Saint Gregory the Illuminator convinced King Trdat III to adopt Christianity, making Armenia the first Christian nation. The monastery is famous for Gregory’s dungeon, the Church of the Holy Mother of God, and its scenic views of Mount Ararat.

Areni Winery — is a family-owned enterprise that produces wines from hand-grown grapes in the village of Areni, located in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor region. The village of Areni is famous for its ancient winemaking traditions, which trace back to deep antiquity.

Areni-1 Cave is a significant archaeological site in Armenia, where remains of ancient humans, stone tools, animal fossils, and ritual artifacts were found. The cave also yielded ancient grape seeds, linked to one of the world’s oldest grape varieties — Areni Noir, a symbol of Armenian winemaking heritage.

Among the gems of Armenian architecture and Christian heritage stands the Noravank Monastery, located in one of the most picturesque spots in Armenia. Perched on a high cliff above a fast-flowing river, set against the backdrop of unique red cliffs tinged with ochre, the monastery’s church domes rise beautifully toward the sky, creating a stunning architectural ensemble.

The Selim Caravanserai is a 14th-century historical site located in Vayots Dzor, Armenia. Built along the ancient Silk Road, it served as a rest stop for merchants and travelers, offering lodging, food, and protection. The structure is a fine example of medieval Armenian architecture, featuring stone walls, arches, and a central courtyard. Today, the caravanserai is open to visitors and stands as an important historical and cultural landmark.

Ayravank is an ancient monastery in Armenia’s Gegharkunik region, dating back to the 4th century. It is known for the Church of Saint Stepanos with its elegant dome, 16th-century khachkars, and a rich history of manuscript transcription. The monastery combines architectural beauty, religious significance, and legends, remaining an important cultural landmark of the country.

Jermuk Waterfall — often called “Mermaid’s Hair” for its graceful and flowing appearance, is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Armenia. It is located near the spa town of Jermuk in the Vayots Dzor region, a place renowned for its mineral springs and healing climate.

The Sanatorium and Drinking Gallery in Jermuk are key health facilities operating since the mid-20th century. The sanatorium provides therapeutic and restorative programs using mineral water, comfortable accommodations, and medical services. The Drinking Gallery allows visitors to consume mineral water for health benefits and overall wellness.

While riding in the cable car cabin, tourists enjoy breathtaking views of the Vorotan Gorge, the Devil’s Bridge, and the Tatev Plateau – the main attractions of this unique area of Armenia.

Zorats Karer (Karaunj) is an ancient megalithic complex in southern Armenia, approximately 7,500 years old. Hundreds of stones with holes were used as an observatory for the Sun, Moon, and stars, as well as a necropolis. The complex uniquely combines astronomy, rituals, and ancient culture.

Tatev Monastery is a remarkable medieval Armenian complex in southern Armenia, founded in the 9th century. Its main churches are Saints Poghos-Petros and Saint Gregory the Illuminator. The monastery is famous for its unique architecture, the swinging column “Gavazan,” and its historical role as a center of spiritual and educational life in the region.

Old Khndzoresk in Syunik Province is a unique cave settlement turned into an open-air museum. The houses were carved directly into the cliffs, some up to 30 meters high, accessible by ropes and underground passages. Today, Old Khndzoresk, with its suspension bridge and fascinating cave architecture, is a popular attraction in Armenia.

Sagmosavank Monastery is a historic 8th-century Armenian monastery located above a gorge on the Kasakh River. The complex includes several churches, with the main one dedicated to Saint Sarkis, featuring domes, stone carvings, and frescoes. The monastery is renowned for its scenic views, spiritual atmosphere, and importance in Armenian Christianity.

Mount Aragats — is the highest mountain in Armenia and the fourth-highest peak of the Armenian Highlands. It possesses unique features that attract numerous climbers and tourists from around the world. Visitors come to admire Armenia’s stunning mountain landscapes and to enjoy trekking — hiking adventures through the scenic highlands.

Echmiadzin — Monastery of the Armenian Apostolic Church; the seat of the throne of the Supreme Patriarch of the Catholicos of All Armenians in 303-484 years, and again from 1441 years. It is located in the city of Vagharshapat, Armavir region, Armenia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Kari Lake, located at an altitude of 1900 m in the Northern Armenian Range near Dilijan, is one of the most picturesque mountain lakes in Armenia. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it impresses with its crystal-clear waters and changing blue shades. The lake is popular for hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and nature recreation.

The alphabet consists of 39 letters, which reflect the peculiarities of the Armenian language and culture. The Armenian alphabet is not only a means of communication, but also a national treasure and symbol of Armenia.

The “Symphony of Stones” refers to an extraordinary geological formation located in the Garni Gorge, near the village of Garni in Armenia. Here’s an overview of this remarkable natural wonder:

Geghard Monastery is a unique medieval Armenian cave complex, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded by Gregory the Illuminator, it housed legendary relics, including the Spear of Longinus. The complex combines natural caves with 12th–13th century architectural structures and attracts tourists and pilgrims with its history, beauty, and spiritual atmosphere.

Tsaghkadzor is a picturesque resort town in Armenia, located in the Kotayk Province, about 50 km north of Yerevan. Nestled in a scenic mountain valley, it is famous for its ski slopes, mineral springs, and lush natural surroundings. The town is also home to historic landmarks such as the 11th-century Kecharis Monastery, attracting visitors interested in both winter sports and cultural heritage. Tsaghkadzor offers a combination of outdoor activities, wellness tourism, and breathtaking views, making it one of Armenia’s most popular mountain destinations.

The balneological springs of Hankavan, 85 km from Yerevan in Kotayk’s Marmarik River valley, are among Armenia’s most valuable for treatment and prevention. Located over 1,900 m above sea level, the main spring has hydrocarbonate-chloride sodium water at 39 °C, with mineralization of 8.7 g/l, high iron content, and 67 mg/l of (Н2ЅіО3+НЅіО3). The spring is divided into three open-air pools, each accommodating up to five people.

Want to see an ancient classical temple without going to Greece? Visit Armenia and explore the Garni Temple, where you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Hellenism and be captivated by the incomparable beauty of the temple’s elegant columns against the backdrop of Armenia’s mountain ranges and blue skies. We have been organizing tours and excursions in Armenia since 2016 and know exactly how to make your trips in our country memorable and comfortable.