Armenia – a small country nestled between the Asian and European continents is one of the oldest countries in the world. Armenia can boast of the most well-preserved ancient culture and heritage which dates back to pre-Christian times with impressive mountainous landscapes and ever kind and genial Armenian people. Here are some highlights of what Armenia has to offer.
Yerevan – The Capital City :
History dating back to the 8th century and one the oldest cities in the world, the capital city Yerevan has quickly developed into a major tourist destination over the past decade as a result of historic landmarks, crazy nightlife, museums and parks.
Walk into the oldest part of the city with Persian, Muslim, and Ottoman houses along narrow alleyways and sip the oldest brandy Ararat.
Noravank Monastery:
Armenia with its history dating back to thousands of years houses beautiful historic monuments, the Noravank monastery is one of the most well-known of the historic sites.
Apart from the creatively carved church, is the contrasting beauty of red rock cliffs and equally beautiful scenery surrounding it. The Noravank monastery has survived the test of time and invasion by the Mongols. With the history and the beauty on its side, the Noravank monastery is certainly one of the must-visit places in Armenia.
Karahunj Stonehenge:
Another archaeological wonder in Armenia is the world’s oldest astronomical observatory near the Dar river, the Armenian Stonehenge of Karahunj. Older than the British Stonehenge, the Karahunj is 222 standing stones, some of them reaching almost to 3 meters.
The 7,500year-old observatory was under use for both scientific and traditional use by the natives of the land. The monument was created to perform rituals while, also judge the position of the sun, moon and earth and to serve as a school. To this day, the Karahunj remains to be a perfect spot for sky-gazing.
Khndzoresk Cave village:
The Khndzoresk Caves village is a famous antique cave-dwelling said to be in use until the 1950s. Most of the houses being dug into the rock the village would house over 15,000 people.
The Khndzoresk Cave village is situated in the deep canyons previously called as the Khor Dzor. The village is famous for battles and it is said that, in case of invasions, people here would move deep inside the caves.
Levon’s Divine Underground:
A man being asked by his wife started digging a potato cellar beneath their house. The builder got to work and didn’t stop over the next 23 years. Levon started to carve out a world beneath his home which will go done as much as 70 feet underground using only a chisel and hammer.
After 23 years of digging the cave beneath their home, Levon carved out several stairs, halls, twists, multiple rooms, small shrines and artistic carvings.
Lake Sevan:
Lake Sevan in Armenia is the largest freshwater high altitude lake in the Eurasian region and in Armenia. The lake is fed by 28 rivers and streams and is known for its beautiful beaches, main fishing centre and medieval monastery.
The lake is easily accessible from the capital city which makes it a popular destination to beat the heat. Swim, surf, ski or sunbathe and then head to a popular food joint to savour local favourite crayfish.
Dilijan National Park:
Known for its green cover, rich biodiversity, cultural and natural sites and beautiful hiking trails, the Dilijan National Park is a perfect camping spot. One of the four national parks in Armenia, the Dilijan National Park is situated on the slopes of mountain ranges, comprising of few rivers flowing through it and several lakes. The park is a specially protected area due to its rich flora and fauna.
The park is home to 977 species of plants, some of which are said to be of the third age. The national park shelters a number of monasteries and lakes.
Khor Virap:
Khor Virap monastery located in the Ararat plains was built years after Armenia was declared as the first Christian nation in the world. Once at the Khor Virap, one can behold the beautiful site Ararat Valley and Mount Ararat.
Garni and Geghard:
Garni is a small village prominent due to its historic architectural monuments from the pre-Christian times. Thus, making Garni an important destination when visiting Armenia. Royal-palace looking architecture from the 3rd millennium B.C is the temple of Garni, built as per the Roman methodology.
The Geghard Monastery is another major spiritual centre of Armenia. Also built in the pre-Christian times, the monastery has been associated with Jesus Christ himself. As per the legend, the spear used by the Roman soldier to pierce Jesus Christ was from Geghard. The spear is now showcased at the Ejmiatsin Cathedral.
Natural Wonders of Armenia:
Apart from the cultural and historical monuments, Armenia is also home to some gorgeous natural wonders.
Hot-water springs:
The Zuar hot water springs are said to possess healing properties and are said to be the summer getaways for the Armenian Royals back in time. It is believed that a dip in this water would heal many. Locals, though believe that drinking this water is healthier than just dipping in it.
Devil’s Bridge:
A 30 m long stone bridge in the Canyon of Vorotan River is another wonder of nature. The bridge, called as the ‘Devil’s Bridge’ lies 700-800m deep in the gorge and is so tight in some places that sunlight does not reach here.
Mount Aragats:
The highest peak in Armenia, Mount Aragat has four peaks as well as one of the biggest crater in the world. This crater in summer is filled with thawing ice and snow, thus forming the beautiful Lake Kari.
Symphony of Stones:
The Canyon of Garni forms a beautiful natural wonder beneath the temple, with cliff walls of basalt columns. The cliffs are often called the “Symphony of Stones”. River Goght enters the canyon further creating a great waterfall with rocky river-bed.
If not, Armenia should be on your bucket list, deservedly so.
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