In Armenia, many beautifully preserved ancient temples and monasteries contrast with churches of modern construction. A huge number of museums scattered throughout the territory of Armenia reveals completely new sides of the country to tourists who are unfamiliar with the history of the country. Guides in Yerevan will help you get acquainted with the numerous sights of the country. Don’t know what to see in Armenia? Especially for you, we have compiled a list of popular places in this country, which includes the most interesting sights of Armenia.
What to see in Armenia first of all
A little advice to those who are interested in excursions in Armenia – do not try to visit several cities in one day and explore dozens of monasteries, cathedrals or natural parks. It is better to highlight those places that are most interesting and pay more attention to them so that the memories of each of them remain in memory. Now let’s learn more about the sights of the country.
1. Karaunj Observatory (Sisian city)
The mysterious Karaunj Megalithic Complex
If you don’t want to travel far to see one of the “places of power”, go to Armenia. 223 stones, each weighing about 10 tons, arranged vertically – this mysterious monument of antiquity on the territory of Armenia and now causes a lot of controversy about its origin. The most popular theory says that this is an ancient observatory. Even more ancient than the English Stonehenge. Some historians attribute to her the age of 5 thousand years, others – 7 thousand. The scientists came to the conclusion that Karakhunj was also used as a temple of the Sun god, who was worshipped by ancient Armenians, and as a university. Jewelry and swords were found under one of the stones. This led to the idea that Karaunj is a cemetery for warriors.
Zorats Karer, Zorakarer (Mighty Stones), Goshun Dan – this is also called Karaunj – is located two hundred kilometers from the capital of Armenia, near the city of Sisian at an altitude of more than one and a half thousand kilometers. The entire complex covers an area of approximately 14 football fields. Many stones have a through hole in the upper part – through these holes ancient scientists observed the heavenly bodies. The stones are arranged in a circle. The remains of ancient dwellings and other historical artifacts are located near the complex.
You can come here not only to quench your thirst for learning new things, but also to feel real peace and tranquility.
Official website: https://www.mshakuyt.com
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2. St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral (Yerevan city)
St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Yerevan
When traveling in Armenia, be sure to visit the Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator. This is one of the largest cathedrals, which was erected in memory of Gregory the Illuminator. It was he who gave the basis for the spread of Christianity in the country.
The construction was started in 1997, in honor of the 1700th anniversary of the introduction of Christianity in Armenia, and completed in 2001. Today it is the most significant building among the sights of the city. The temple houses relics and relics of the saint, which were returned to their homeland from Italy.
The sights of Armenia are distinguished by their severity. The Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator is no exception. During its construction, they adhered to a strict ascetic style. The building has angular shapes, it is decorated with niches and triangular arches. In order to emphasize the contrast, strict colors were chosen. You will not find any paintings on the walls. Inside the temple, on the contrary, everything is very bright and bright. This expands the space.
The complex consists of a cathedral and two churches. The buildings are very high. Due to this, they can be seen from all corners of the city. The cathedral and churches can accommodate 1,700 people at the same time.
For tourists, the Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator is a unique attraction. For local residents, it is a symbol of the spirituality of the people, the preservation of their faith and unity.
3. Goshavank Monastery (village of Gosh)
Goshavank Monastery – a medieval monastery complex
If you are looking for something to see in Armenia, head to the Goshavank Monastery. This is one of the most popular attractions. The monastery is located 22 kilometers from Dilijan bus station. This is a medieval complex surrounded by dense oak forests. No walls were built around the monastery, so it is surrounded by simple rural buildings. The monastery was built in the classical style. You won’t see fancy decor elements here. But that’s what makes it beautiful – its austerity and minimalism.
The first church of this Armenian landmark is the Astvatsatsin Church. It is distinguished by its original artistic decor and rich interior. There is a book depository building with a bell tower nearby. On the west side of it there is a room that was intended for classes and meals. It was a center that combined both faith and knowledge in one place.
The monastery is famous for its khachkars (stone steles), made with special awe and skill. They are considered the most beautiful in Armenia. The patterns on the stones seem to be embroidered. The unique technique of execution is amazing.
Today, the monastery complex is a nature reserve, the church does not operate in it. But this is one of the most favorite places for tourists and locals to visit.
Official website: https://www.armeniapedia.org
4. Lake Sevan (Gavar city)
A large and beautiful alpine lake Sevan
When traveling in Armenia, do not forget to take a walk along the shore of Lake Sevan. This reservoir is located 8 kilometers from the city of Gavar, at an altitude of 1900 meters. The name Sevan comes from the Urartian language Sunia and means “lake”.
The rich fauna of the lake feeds the entire population of the country. The constant prey of fishermen is Sevan trout and silver carp. There is a state park with the same name in the Sevan basin. It includes nature reserves and sanctuaries where Armenian seagulls settle. The area freed up as a result of a decrease in the water level in the lake is planted with trees and shrubs.
The Khachkars cemetery on the Sevan coast is included in the category of “Must-visit attractions of Armenia”. The graves are located in the village of Noratus. Artifacts older than 2000 years have been discovered here. Now they are kept in the Yerevan Museum.
Once on the lake, get acquainted with the ancient architecture of such monasteries as Sevanavank, Ayrivank, Vanevan, Kotavank. Walking around the environs of Sevan, you will undoubtedly feel the spirit of the times of various epochs and peoples. The calm water surface and the surrounding landscape will forever remain in your pleasant memories.
5. Matenadaran (Yerevan city)
The world’s largest repository of ancient manuscripts is the Matenadaran
The historical sights of Armenia have always attracted a large number of tourists. The Museum of Ancient Manuscripts in Yerevan deserves to top the list of places that must be visited in this country. This amazing collection of ancient manuscripts will find a response in the soul of not only scientists who came here for academic purposes, but also ordinary visitors. Here you can see the first translations of the Bible into Armenian, works on medicine, geometry, and history. The amazing beauty of miniatures and titles made by ancient artists, elegant salaries made of precious metals, will make you forget for a long time about the noise outside the window of the XXI century.
In addition to the amazing age of the books, the stories about how they came to our time are also awe-inspiring. The collection is based on the collection of books of the Echmiadzin monastery. But many copies have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries as the greatest family value.
There are books written in different languages, created by representatives of different religions. All this treasure has about 17 thousand exhibits.
In this amazing place, you can realize yourself as a part of the history of mankind, absorb the powerful energy of wisdom from hundreds of previous generations and become its guide to the future.
Matenadaran is the best answer to the question of what to see in Armenia first of all.
Official website: https://www.matenadaran.am
Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Armenia!
6. Mount Ararat (Armenian Highlands, Turkey)
Monastery on the background of the sacred Mount Ararat
Any native to the guest’s question “What to see in Armenia?” The answer is Mount Ararat. This is the main symbol of Armenia, despite the fact that Ararat is located on the territory of Turkey. According to legend, it was at the foot of this mountain that Noah’s Ark found its last resting place. To this day, searches for his remains continue on the volcanic massif, but so far they have been fruitless. Despite the universal name Ararat, the indigenous people used to call Mount Masis. If you want to see the sights of Armenia, you simply cannot do without visiting Mount Ararat.
The height of the peak is 5,165 meters, so you need to prepare carefully for climbing it. The first attempt to conquer the peak took place in 1829. However, today the climbing program is available to everyone through a special tourist program. There is a version that Ararat is a former volcano, which has been considered extinct for the last few millennia. During the last eruption, accompanied by heavy rains and mudslides, the settlement of Arguri was destroyed. At the foot of the mountain there is a national park covering an area of about 90 thousand hectares, which includes not only two mountain peaks, but also the area where, according to legend, the biblical ark crashed.
7. Blue Mosque (Yerevan city)
The Blue Mosque is a silent witness to history
Excursions in Yerevan are never complete without a visit to the Blue Mosque. Today it is the only functioning Muslim temple in the country. Having great architectural and historical value, this building has become a symbol of Iranian-Armenian friendship.
It is difficult to find other sights of Armenia that would have such dimensions. The total area allocated once for the construction of the temple is 7 thousand square meters. m. The high (unfortunately, today it is already the only one) minaret rises as much as 24 meters above the ground.
The Blue Mosque is a very peaceful and spiritual place. The locals are convinced that here you can find much-desired peace and tranquility for your soul.
Persian language instruction is provided daily in the mosque’s library. Today, you can see Islamic values and attributes associated with the construction of the mosque in several exhibition halls of the temple. The building is decorated in a traditional Muslim style. The minaret itself and the domes are decorated with faience tiles with majolica.
The Blue Mosque is an ideal place for those who want to hide from the scorching local sun in the shade of apricot trees, admire the rose bushes, and think about the eternal.
Despite the fact that the majority of the Armenian population are Christians, the locals treat the Blue Mosque with respect. Representatives of different faiths like to visit this landmark.
Official website: https://yerevanmasjed.ir
8. Aram Khachaturian Museum (Yerevan city)
Aram Khachaturian’s House Museum is a repository of the great composer’s fame
Exploring the streets of Yerevan, be sure to visit the museum of the Armenian musician and author of many musical works Aram Khachaturian. For his services to the fatherland, the heads of Armenia decided to create a museum in honor of the honorary citizen.
The foundation for the museum was the house where Aram lived when he was passing through Yerevan. There were no special changes in the appearance of the mansion, only a two-storey extension in the garden appeared. And the facade was transformed by five massive arches, similar to tuning forks.
The composer only managed to approve the plan for the future museum, but did not live to see its opening. The current director of the museum is the outstanding pianist Armine Grigoryan.
Musical evenings and festivals are constantly held within the walls of this majestic landmark of Armenia, meetings with cultural figures are organized, and various exhibitions are held.
After visiting the museum, you will see Aram’s private office, his bedroom, dining room and, of course, the piano on which the talented musician composed and played. You will also get acquainted with many things, from the conductor’s baton to personal letters. Every year, the museum receives valuable exhibits from all over the world, one way or another related to Aram Khachaturian.
Official website: https://www.akhachaturianmuseum.am
9. Yerevan Brandy Factory (Yerevan city)
Storage of the Yerevan Brandy Factory
Yerevan Brandy Factory is the leading producer of alcoholic beverages in Armenia. Its history began in 1887 with the establishment of its merchant Nerses Tairov. 12 years later, the plant became owned by Nikolai Shustov. Today, the cognac factory is the leader in the export of alcoholic beverages in Armenia. Many of the drinks produced have up to 20 years of aging, for example, “Nairi”, “Vaspurakan”, “Armenia”, “25”, “Dvin”. The arsenal of the EKZ also stores unique brands of cognac, which are made and bottled according to a special recipe in a limited series. Such drinks cannot be bought on supermarket shelves, among them “Erebuni”, “Cilicia”, “Noah’s Ark”, etc.
The products of the Yerevan Brandy Factory are supplied to 25 countries of the world and have 47 registered trademarks. According to local residents, it is best to start exploring Armenia with a visit to the factory. To do this, you can visit an exciting tour and see the production of alcoholic beverages from the inside. If you decide to see the sights of Armenia, the cognac factory will be a great start for traveling around the country and getting to know its culture.
Official website: https://araratbrandy.com
10. Khor Virap Monastery (Mount Ararat)
The ascetic beauty of the monastery of Khor Virap
The ancient monastery of Khor Virap stands near Mount Ararat. The two popular attractions complement each other. According to legend, Noah’s ark ran aground on Mount Ararat. Virap Choir is located on the territory of the former capital of Armenia – Artashat.
The foundation of the monastery is an underground prison, where the tsar imprisoned St. Gregory the Illuminator for a period of 15 years. After the adoption of Christianity by Armenia, the monastery became a center of spiritual development. Divine services are held in the church on the territory of the monastery. And today the monastery is considered one of the most frequently visited places for pilgrimage.
Access to the underground prison is open to every visitor, entrance is through the chapel of St. Gregory. Initially, a chapel was built around the underground prison, and later the monastery itself.
Without hesitation, go explore these legendary ancient sights of Armenia. Going down the winding stairs to the dungeon to a depth of 6 meters, any tourist will be able to feel how hard it was for the prisoner here, because the width of the room is only 4.4 meters. After such a trip, there will be enough impressions for a year ahead.
Sights of Armenia: what else to visit while in Armenia
No matter how tempting the opportunity to explore all the interesting places on your own may seem, it is still wiser if you are accompanied by guides in Armenia. You can discuss the excursion route with them, taking into account the information that you will learn from our descriptions of tourist sites in the country.
11. Tatev Monastery (Goris city)
Medieval Tatev Monastery in Armenia
Tatev Monastery is a complex of monasteries located 20 kilometers from the settlement of Goris. For many centuries, the complex has been the main center of spirituality in the historical region of Armenia Syunik.
This complex is a real treasure trove for tourists. Here is the habitat of Tatevi Anapat monks, the Wings of Tatev hanging rope route (the money received from the visit goes to the revival of the entire complex), a natural bridge, caves. Interesting sights of Armenia are collected in one place. At the end of the 20th century, the Tatev Monastery even wanted to be included in the UNESCO list.
During the prosperity of Syunik, more than ten hundred people lived under the arches of the monastery. The monastery existed by collecting tribute from the surrounding villages. In the Middle Ages, a miniature school was formed on its territory, which served as a noticeable development of the population.
The complex was severely destroyed after the earthquake that occurred in 1931. At the moment, the restoration process is still underway, but there is no ban on visiting.
While on the territory of the monastery, conduct an exciting exploration of the temples and tombs.
12. Selim caravanserai (Yerevan city)
The preserved Selim caravanserai in Yerevan
The winding serpentine of the Selim Pass is a favorite route for tourists traveling in Armenia. The pass is located at an altitude of 2500 meters. Due to the large amount of precipitation in winter, it is almost impossible to get there, so you should plan a hike in late spring, summer or autumn.
A highway passes through the pass, along which travelers travel from the city of Yerevan to Lake Sevan and back. On the way you will meet a beautiful view of the valley, surrounded by green grass and cut by many streams. It will be possible to capture Mount Ararat. As you progress, you will find yourself on the lower level of a narrow gorge, where the famous Selim caravanserai was built.
In the distant past, the Silk Road passed right here, and the Selim caravanserai was an overnight stay for caravans going to Europe. In the 15th century, the caravanserai was destroyed, but in the middle of the 20th century it was restored again. The oldest sights of Armenia fascinate with their appearance. These include the Selim caravanserai.
The basalt structure includes a hall divided into rooms for sleeping people and animals. Once here, you can imagine how people rested after a long journey.
13. Tsitsennakaberd, Armenian Genocide Museum (Yerevan city)
Armenian Genocide Museum in Yerevan
When going on a trip and making up a route for yourself what to visit in Armenia, do not ignore the Armenian Genocide Museum. He is located in Yerevan. The museum was opened in 1995 to mark the 80th anniversary of the terrible tragedy that Armenians still mourn. About 1.5 million. The Armenians were exterminated in the period 1915-1917. This museum was founded in memory of the tragedy.
Its building is built on the mountain, on its very slope. It is here that the memorial of memory is located. The roof of the museum complex offers a magnificent view of Mount Ararat. A memorial stone stele is installed in the very center of the museum courtyard.
The museum itself is unique. His building is completely submerged in the ground. According to the idea, it should represent a tomb, and its internal structure – the circles of hell.
All the expositions of the museum were collected with great difficulty. Many archival documents have been destroyed or are still classified. The main part of the museum consists of three halls. The first one presents a huge map of the Armenian Highlands, which was carved on the wall. The settlements where the most people were killed are marked here. Photo archives of peacetime before the genocide are presented. Books and photos are on display in the second hall. In the third room there are demographic tables indicating the number of deaths.
The purpose of the museum as a landmark in Armenia is not only to honor the memory of the dead, but also to demonstrate the enormity of what happened in order to prevent such tragedies.
Official website: https://www.genocide-museum.am
14. Smbataberd Fortress (Artabuink village)
Ruins of the Smbataberd fortress
The fortress is located east of the village of Artabuink in the Vayots Dzor district. Located on a hill, it is a medieval fortification complex built on the site of an observation post of the 5th century. Most historians believe that the fortress was named after Prince Smbat Orbelian, the ruler of the XIII century. He was a skilled warrior, knew 5 languages, and was a diplomat with innate talent.
The absence of dense tree plantations in this place was beneficial for the builders of the Smbataberd fortress, because it made it impossible to storm the defensive structure. Thick walls were difficult to break through, and the enemies did not want to fight in an empty area where there was not a single tree.
When the siege came, the fortress did not surrender. The enemies did not know that a secret water supply was connected to the fortress, and inside there were many warehouses with supplies of provisions. Thanks to this, we managed to survive difficult times.
They tried to restore the destroyed fortress (in 2006-2007), but a significant part of it was not restored. It is very easy to get to this Armenian landmark. You can walk here by walking 2 km east from the village of Artabuink.
15. Sanahin Monastery (Sanahin village, Alaverdi city)
The Sanahin Monastery is an outstanding monument of Armenian architecture
Sanahin Monastery is one of the most inaccessible beauties of Armenia. After all, to get here, you will have to cover about two kilometers on foot.
The location of the monastery was chosen deliberately. Monks were hiding here, wishing to avoid the displeasure of the Byzantine ruler Roman Lakapin. Built in the 10th century, the monastery was later not only a place of worship, but also a school and academy. Famous scientists in the Middle Ages taught here.
Many sights of Armenia, including the Sanahin Monastery, are famous for their beauty, as well as excellent preservation. This structure was damaged more than once in earthquakes, but each time it was restored by caring people. The place received a complete restoration in 1996, and then it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Being here, it is impossible not to look at the building in the center, around which the others are located. Surb Astvatsatsin is a restored domed temple made of blocks of basalt. There are restored frescoes inside the small temple. Other churches of the complex are Amenaprkich, St. Grigor Chapel.
16. Yerevan Cascade (Yerevan)
The square on the approach to the Cascade on the slopes of the Kanaker hills in Yerevan Dmitry Karyshev
Radiant Armenia attracts guests with the gentle sun, magnificent mountain landscapes, amazingly delicious national cuisine and the hospitality of the people. What to see in May, if it was during this period that the trip fell? In late spring, when the flower beds bloom and the greenery pleases with fresh colors, it is worth visiting the Cascade in Yerevan, surrounded by a beautiful park. It is a unique architectural complex designed to connect two parts of the city. Beautifully decorated staircases, picturesque fountains, colorful flower beds and various sculptures along the Kanaker Hills form a kind of cascade connecting the lower and upper parts of Yerevan. There is an observation deck at the top of the Cascade, offering breathtaking views of the city against the background of the horizon, decorated with a border of Small and Large Ararat. The total length of the Cascade composition is 0.5 km, and the difference between the heights is about 100 meters.
Official website: https://www.cmf.am
17. Geghard Monastery (Kotayk region)
Top view of the Geghard monastery complex among the cliffs of the gorge of the Gokht mountain river in Armenia
Geghard is a monastery complex, an amazing architectural structure and the main thing that Armenia is famous for in the Kotayk region. The monastery is located about half an hour’s drive from the capital, in the beautiful gorge of the Gokht River, where pilgrimage tours are often made. It is believed that St. George the Illuminator founded the monastery back in the 4th century AD, on the site of a sacred spring, which to this day is located near the monastery and gives the purest water. Some of the monastery buildings were hollowed out right inside the rocks, the other part is a complex structure, partially walled, partially sunk into the rock stronghold. The monastery has another, more modern name – Geghardavank (Monastery of the Spear), which originated from the spear of Longinus, which pierced the body of the Son of God after the execution. In the 13th century, the Apostle Thaddeus brought the spear to Armenia – the legendary shrine is now kept in the Armenian museum of Etchmiadzin.
18. Echmiadzin Cathedral (Vagharshapat)
Echmiadzin Cathedral is one of the ancient Christian temples of the planet Vigen Hakhverdyan
Each branch of Christianity has its own revered shrines. If we talk about the holy places of Armenia, the most important of them can be called the Echmiadzin Cathedral. The ancient city of Vagharashpat, where the cathedral is located, is the largest center of Christian culture in Armenia – Christianity was recognized as the state religion here back in the 4th century. In the past centuries, the walls of the Echmiadzin Cathedral were covered with frescoes with scenes of Holy Scripture and images of especially revered saints, but part of the painting was lost over time. As a result of careful restoration in the 20th century, fragments of the painting were updated, many structural elements were strengthened. On the side of the temple, you can visit the buildings reserved for museum exhibits. Their collections include paintings by famous Armenian artists, embroidered robes, church utensils, staffs, crosses and other valuable church attributes.
Official website: https://www.armenianchurch.org
19. Mihr Temple in Garni
The pagan temple in Garni, dedicated to the sun god Mihr, on the territory of Armenia
If you look at the sights of Armenia on the map, then about 30 kilometers from Yerevan you can see the only pagan temple in Armenia, built after the adoption of Christianity. It was dedicated to one of the most revered gods in Ancient Armenia – Mihr, after whom it was named. This unique facility is located near the village of Garni, right above the gorge of the Azat River. The temple is built of smooth-hewn blocks of basalt, fastened with staples and pins, following the pattern of Hellenistic architecture. 9 high and massive steps stretch along the entire length of the facade, and the pylons on both sides of the stairs are covered with reliefs depicting Atlanteans sitting on one knee with their arms raised and supporting altars. The size of the temple is quite small – only a statue of the deity was placed here, and the temple itself was intended only for the royal family. Ancient historical monuments have been preserved in the vicinity – the ruins of an ancient fortress, a royal palace and a bathhouse built in the 3rd century.
20. St. Hripsime Church (Vagharshapat)
The Church of St. Hripsime of the XVII century at the entrance to the city of Vagharshapat in Armenia D-man
The most ancient city of Vagharshapat, Armenia, belongs to the category of the world’s main shrines and treasures of mankind. The top attractions in this city are crowned by the church of St. Hripsime of the 7th century, part of the complex of the Echmiadzin monastery. The relics of Saint Hripsime, brutally murdered by pagans, are kept inside. Presumably, in 301, several Christian girls came to Armenia from a Roman monastery, among them Hripsime. With her beauty, she so conquered the Roman emperor that he proposed marriage to her. The girl, having refused, was forced to hide from the wrath of the monarch in Armenia. The Armenian king, also captivated by the beauty of Hripsime, caught fire with the same desire, but was rejected, for which he ordered the execution of all the girls who arrived. This cruelty led the emperor to demonic possession, from which he was cured by Gregory the Illuminator – the Son of God appeared to this saint in a dream, who indicated the place for the construction of a temple in honor of Hripsime. In the north, Armenia borders Georgia, a country inhabited by a proud but hospitable people, where wine flows like a river, and the mountain landscapes are so beautiful that almost all famous Russian writers mentioned them in their works! While staying in Armenia, think about visiting Georgia. Read about the sights of Georgia and get inspired for your further journey through the Caucasus region!
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