While deciding on the places to include in our trip there were multiple choices – Yerevan and its nearby sights, Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Tsaghkadzor, Jermuk and Tatev monastery. Tsaghkadzor was the first to go out of the list since spring is not the best time to visit a ski resort. Between Jermuk and Dilijan chose in favour of the latter and decided to include Tatev monastery into the itinerary. Tatev monastery is over four hours’ drive from Yerevan but if done as a day trip it would be a very long day which we wanted to avoid. So, we decided to stay overnight at Goris and that ended being one of the best decisions. However, that also meant we were left with very little time for sightseeing in Yerevan.

Khor Virap Monastery

Khor Virap is a famous monastery located in the Ararat Province about forty kilometres from Yerevan. The journey offers picturesque views of the Armenian countryside, with vineyards, farms growing apricots & peaches, rolling hills, and glimpse of Mount Ararat. Along the way, we pass through the town of Artashat. The drive to Khor Virap gets close to the Turkey border.

The setting of Khor Virap is truly stunning, with the monastery perched on a hill overlooking the vast Ararat Plain. The backdrop of Mount Ararat adds to the picturesque charm of the place, making it a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. The monastery itself is a beautiful example of Armenian architecture, with its stone walls and domed roofs standing out against the backdrop of the rugged landscape.

The monastery holds significant historical and religious importance in Armenia and is one of the country’s most visited pilgrimage sites. The monastery consists of several buildings, including churches, chapels, and living quarters.

The history of Khor Virap dates back to the 4th century when Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, was imprisoned there for about 13 years by King Tiridates III. Saint Gregory played a crucial role in the conversion of Armenia to Christianity, and his imprisonment in Khor Virap is considered a significant event in Armenian Christian history.

Areni – 1 Cave

Areni Cave-1, is an archaeological site located in the village of Areni in the Vayots Dzor province. It is a significant site that has provided valuable insights into the prehistoric era and the early stages of human civilization. Areni-1 Cave was accidentally discovered in 2001 during construction work. Archaeologists quickly recognized its historical importance and initiated excavations. The site has been extensively studied since then, with ongoing excavations revealing new findings.

The cave has a long history dating back to the Chalcolithic and Bronze Ages, making it one of the oldest known inhabited caves in the world. Various archaeological layers within the cave represent different periods of human occupation spanning thousands of years. Areni-1 Cave is notable for its diverse range of artifacts and features, shedding light on different aspects of ancient life. It has yielded a wealth of information about early winemaking, religious practices, burial customs, and the material culture of the region.

One of the most significant discoveries in Areni-1 Cave is the evidence of ancient winemaking with artifacts dating back to around 6,000 years ago. The cave has also revealed several well-preserved burials. In 2010, the oldest leather shoe, estimated to be around 5,500 years old, was discovered here. Additionally, other valuable artifacts, such as pottery, jewelry, and tools, have been found within the burials, providing insights into the cultural practices and beliefs of the ancient inhabitants.

Noravank Monastery

Among the rich cultural heritage and ancient architectural wonders Noravank Monastery stands out as a magnificent example of medieval ecclesiastical architecture. Located in the breathtaking Amaghu Valley, in the Vayots Dzor Province, Noravank Monastery is a testament to the skill and creativity of Armenian craftsmen of the past.

Noravank Monastery, constructed in the 13th century during the reign of the Orbelian dynasty, the name, ironically, means ‘new monastery’ in Armenian! The architectural beauty of Noravank Monastery is truly captivating. The complex comprises several structures, including the main church, St. Karapet, the Church of St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), and a gavit (a vaulted entrance hall).  The facade of St. Karapet Church is adorned with delicate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Bible, including the Crucifixion, the Adoration of the Magi, and the Last Judgment. These intricately carved reliefs showcase the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail of Armenian artisans of the time.

Noravank Monastery has played a significant role in the spiritual and cultural life of Armenia throughout history. It served as a religious and educational center, housing a theological school and a scriptorium where manuscripts were produced and preserved. Many renowned Armenian scholars and theologians found inspiration within the walls of Noravank.

About 135kms from Noravank is the town of Goris in the Syunik Province in the southeastern part of the country, near the border with the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). Goris is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by the Zangezur Mountains. The town is located at an elevation of approximately 1,400m above sea level. The stay at Goris was unique and though short, we enjoyed it.