Located in the mountainous Caucasus region, Armenia is a former Soviet republic. The country is known for its ancient religious sites, particularly the Etchmiadzin Cathedral and the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni. The country is also home to Mount Ararat, a dormant volcano that rises above the surrounding landscape.
Geghard Monastery
Known for its evocative architecture and rock-cut tombs, Monastery of Geghard is one of the most beautiful and intriguing places to visit in Armenia. Located on the edge of the Azat River gorge, the monastery is listed as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations.
The monastery is said to be the height of Armenian Medieval architecture. It features elaborate structures that are carved deep into the cliffs of the Gerghard-djor mountain. It also includes a number of other buildings that range in size and complexity.
The monastery complex was built in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator. It also had a school and a library. It was a spiritual center of medieval Armenia. In addition, it was a place of pilgrimage for Armenian Christians. During this time, it also housed relics of Andrew and John. The monastery also served as a printing house.
The monastery was built on the site of a sacred spring that flows inside a cave. Originally, it was named Ayrivank. It was later changed to Geghard.
The earliest inscriptions date back to 1177 and 1181. The main church was commissioned by prince brothers Zakharia and Ivane. It was decorated with a domed ceiling, columns and intricate carvings.
The Katoghike Chapel is another impressive building in the Monastery of Geghard. It features beautiful paintings of angels and grape leaves. Its southern facade has an arch with fine carvings. The tympanum has leaves intertwining with grapes. The cupola has an arched top that features detailed reliefs. The apse is semicircular.
During the Middle Ages, the Monastery of Geghard became the center of the spiritual life of Armenian Christians. The monks of the monastery contributed greatly to the development of calligraphy art. It also had a school and relic repository. In addition, it had a royal tomb. It survived Arab destruction and Mongol invasions. It also has a spectacular view of the mountains.
There are many things to do in Armenia. You should definitely add Geghard to your list. You can reach it by bus or taxi from Yerevan or by private car. It takes about 40 minutes to reach.
Lake Sevan
Located in the Republic of Armenia, Lake Sevan is a beautiful and popular tourist destination. The largest freshwater high altitude lake in Eurasia and the Caucasus region, it covers almost nine hundred square kilometers. The water temperature is cool and refreshing, which makes it an ideal vacation spot. In fact, the lake has been declared the "tear of the Caucasus."
Sevanavank, a monastic complex on the peninsula of Lake Sevan, is a must-see. The complex is made up of two stone churches dating back to the 9th century. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
The monastery also features a beautiful view of the lake. It is a popular destination for visitors who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing and other water sports.
Another great site to see is the Sefan Monastery. It is located on peninsula high ground that extends into Lake Sevan. It is home to a number of monasteries and churches. The monastery is free to enter and has full parking.
One of the lesser-known sights in the Sevan region is the 9th-12th century monastery. It is home to around 900 different cross-stones, which are a form of ancient Christian Armenian art.
Another interesting site is the Noratus Cemetery. It has hundreds of carved stone khachkar memorials. It is located on the western shore of Lake Sevan.
Lake Sevan is also a good place to see wildlife. It is home to a variety of species. It is best to visit in summer. The water temperature is not that high, but it can be windy and chilly in the evening. In fact, it is a good idea to bring a light coat or pullover.
Lake Sevan is a great way to escape the heat of the capital city of Yerevan. There are several resorts, restaurants, and luxury hotels in the area. There are also water scooters available for rent. The lake is known for its fish, which are delicious to eat and have rich nutrition.
If you are traveling to Armenia, you must visit Lake Sevan. It is one of the best natural tourist destinations in the country.
Lake Akna
Located in the Geghama mountain range, Lake Akna is one of the most beautiful places in Armenia. It is surrounded by lush meadows, young volcanic rocks, and the crystal blue sky. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and trekkers. Its water is clean, fresh and potable.
Its crystalline water is known for its beauty and its pristine quality. It is also a good place for photography. It is located on the border of Kotayk and Gegharkunik regions.
In summer, it becomes an ideal destination for hiking. The lake has crystal clear water and mirror-like surface, which reflects the blue sky. It is fed by spring and snowmelt waters.
Akna is also a great place for photographers. Its crystalline water reflects the surrounding mountains. It is also a good location for photographing the Geghama mountain range.
During the winter months, it is covered in snow. The area has a number of species of birds. These include eagles, jays, lynxes, martens, bearded vultures, and wild pigeon. In addition to these, there are also rarer animals such as leopards and brown bears.
The best time to visit Lake Akna is during spring and summer. It is a good place to stay if you are hiking the Geghama mountains. It is also a good place for camping. It is a good location for trekking, as it is located at the foot of Mount Azhdahak. During trekking, you can visit various historical sites.
Arai Mountain is also one of the most popular destinations for hiking in Armenia. It is also a good place for mountain biking. The area is colorful with yellow, red, and green trees. You can also visit the ruins of a royal palace.
It is not uncommon to see amphibious reptiles in large numbers during the summer months. You can also find lynxes, martens, brown bears, and other animals in the area.
Lake Akna is also located on the slopes of the Geghama mountain range. It is located at an altitude of 3,030 meters above sea level. It has an area of 0.5 square km and a surface area of 2500 thousand m3. Its water is sourced from spring and snowmelt waters.
Dilijan National Park
Known as one of the Caucasus's most beautiful places, Dilijan National Park is an ideal spot for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. The park includes forests, mountain springs and alpine lakes, which are some of the region's most picturesque attractions. The park is situated in the north-eastern Tavush province of Armenia. It is also home to the ancient monasteries of Haghartsin and Matosavank.
The park is home to numerous trails and monasteries, and is an ideal location for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. It is also home to a wide range of plant life and wildlife. The park contains 902 species of vascular plants, including Caucasian rhodododendron, cornel, pear, and walnut. Among these are forty species that are rare and registered in the Armenian Red Book of Endangered Species.
Hiking trails are available in the region and can be accessed with an all-terrain vehicle. The trails pass through forests and caves, and you can see prehistoric petroglyphs, as well as rare flora. The park's hiking infrastructure includes well-developed hiking projects, and many of the trails are marked. The park also offers a number of multi-day treks.
Haghartsin Monastery is one of the most popular sites in Dilijan National Park. The monks here still maintain their residence, and visitors can tour the monastery. It's believed to have been constructed as early as the 10th century.
Goshavank Monastery is also an interesting place to visit in the park. This 12th century monument is named after the Armenian scholar Mkhitar Gosh. It was built using crude black stones. Its ruins are hidden in the forest and are adorned with ornate khachkars.
Dilijan is the perfect destination for those looking to get away from the city and spend a few days in nature. The town has a wide range of accommodation, including guesthouses and hotels. It is also easy to get to and from the city. The bus station is located in the northern part of town, and marshrutkas are available for transport. The Dilijan Tourist Information Centre has information about the trails in the park, as well as mountain bikes for rent.
