One-Day Tour to Khor Virap and Noravank Monasteries

armeniangeographic

2 years ago

The one-day tour to Khor Virap and Noravank Monasteries is an unforgettable trip to centuries-old Christian sanctuaries, each boasting a rich history, remarkable architectural features and a lot of old cross-stones. We will also visit the picturesque village of Areni to taste the best local wines.

What is most important, you will feel a deep connection with a great Christian heritage and will move to the distant past to feel spiritual harmony. Do not miss the opportunity to join us on this exciting trip.

Khor Virap, the Symbol of Armenia

From Yerevan we will drive to the centuries-old monastery of Khor Virap, the place where Gregory the Enlightener was imprisoned for a long time. Here we will find ourselves at the foot of Mount Ararat and will enjoy the incredible beauty and majesty of its peaks, so close and so far away at the same time. This scenery and the old monastery, which is associated with interesting legends and stands out for its impressive architectural features, will leave a lasting impression on you.

Every stone and architectural element in Khor Virap speaks of its centuries-old history. During the tour, you will reveal the important role that this monastery played in the history of Armenia, and particularly, in the country’s conversion to Christianity.

Khor Virap

Birds’ Cave

From the region of Ararat we will drive to Vayots Dzor, where the scenery is completely different: instead of green fields common in Ararat Region, here we will see picturesque gorges, reddish rocks and caves. We will stop at the Birds’ Cave, which dates from the Early Bronze Age marked with the beginning of farming activities. Here archaeologists have unearthed unique agricultural tools as well as the oldest leather shoe in the world. The visit to this cave will move you to the remote past and you will get an idea about the lifestyle of humans several thousand years ago.

Birds’ Cave

Noravank Monastery

Our next destination is Noravank, one of the pearls of Armenian architecture located in the bosom of the colourful rocks of the Gnishik Gorge. We will have a fascinating journey through time which will enable us to feel the spirit of the Middle Ages, admiring the magnificence of the religious buildings.

Noravank Monastery

Many of the princes Orbelian are buried in the gavit (entrance hall) of the main monastic church which is dedicated to St. Stephen the Proto-Deacon. The entrance to the gavit is decorated with a rare relief representing God the Father.

The last destination of this enjoyable tour will be the village of Areni, which is famous for centuries-old winemaking traditions. Wine tasting

Enjoying an atmosphere of old cultural heritage, we will taste the best wines in the region and will reveal a lot of interesting facts about viniculture and winemaking in Armenia.