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| Yerevan – Armenia with mountains in the background |
Although Armenia is considered a tourist destination, this gem tour along the border between Asia and Europe requires public attention. The landscape, the magnificent mountains and the centuries-old religious traditions are enough to make you visit this country.
If you want to know that the natural and cultural sights of Armenia are the most influential, read on. Here is a list of 10 great places in Armenia.
1. Yerevan
Many travelers come or leave Armenia from the capital, Yerevan, but the city is more than just a starting point for other fascinating destinations. The heart is in Republic Square, the main civil place in Yerevan. From a bench, you can enjoy the early 20th century architecture built from orange tuff.
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| Cascade Yerevan |
One of the strange looking buildings houses the History Museum and the National Gallery of Armenia. These two will give you a decent introduction to Armenia. Learn about the country and its history at the Armenian Genocide Museum, a spectacular exhibition about these tragic events in the early 20th century. The town of Yerevan Cascade and the majestic Mount Arrowroot are great vantage points to watch the sunset.
2. Khor Virup
Of all the ancient monasteries in Armenia, Khor Veer has the most breathtaking scenes. This holy site is located west of Armenia and offers a spectacular view of Mount Aratte (approx. 5137 m) and the valley. The complex time goes back to 180 BC. Back to BC, but a fad was made when Armenia accepted Christianity as the state religion in 301.
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| Old Armenian Church-Khor Vir with mountains in the background |
There is a lot to discover in the monastery itself; Large chels, monks’ chambers and even dungeons before the Khor Viras became monasteries. You can take a taxi or a direct service bus from the center of Yerevan to Khor Vir. This journey takes about an hour.
3. Aargat Mountains
Mount Aragat is actually an icon in Armenia. At 4090 meters, it is the highest mountain in the country and a dream destination for enthusiasts. Mount Aragats has 4 bumpy peaks and all of them can be reached on foot, although hiking experience and good footwear are required. The view of the snowfield and the arid plains of Armenia is more than surprising.
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| The-Amberd fortress and church |
On the way from Yerevan to the mountain, it recommended taking a break at Amberd Fort. Although the original palace was built in the 7th century, the current ruins were built in the 13th century after devastating invasions. The ruins of this ancient citadel, the 11th century church and the deep ghats to the west in one important view.
4. Dilijan
Dilijan makes you believe you have been transported back to Soviet times. Attractive Lada cars and traditional workshops in wooden houses can be seen everywhere. This, together with the mountainous landscape and forests, makes this city an attractive haven in Armenia.
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| Dilijan Armenia |
Take a pristine walk to Lake Parzer, surrounded by greenery. Especially in autumn when the leaves are glowing red and orange, this is an excellent place to stretch your legs. See master craftsmen at work in my studio on Myasnikyan Street. Here they make jewelry, wooden toys and paintings.
If you drive 30 minutes outside of town, you will come across the beautiful Hagartsin Monastery, a medieval complex surrounded by lush pine forests.
5. Lake Seven
Seven Lake is the largest lake in Armenia and even in the entire Caucasus. At 1,242 square kilometers, it makes up around 4 percent of the total size of the country. The main attraction of the seven lakes is the Sevenvank Monastery, which is located on the northwest coast of this vast valley. The complex dates back to the 800s and is in a picturesque location overlooking the lake and the mighty snow-capped peaks in the background.
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| Sevan Lake and the Sevanavank Monastery |
When you can rent a boat to explore Lake Seven or take a stroll on one of the many beaches. For those looking to climb Mount Artanish after a hike. Here you can enjoy the best possible landscape.
6. Gegird Math
Gigard Monastery is one of the most important monuments in Armenia and has a UNESCO World Heritage List for more than 1600 years of history and cultural significance. The Gegaard Monastery is located in deep valleys, surrounded by high rocks. Part of the monastery is carved out of the rock and contains tombs, ancient carvings, art and religious symbols.
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| Geghard Monastery-Armenia |
Within the main chel, the sacred atmosphere is sacred; Footsteps are all you can hear and only the light from the windows and candles lit by visitors is natural. The Gegaard complex has many columns, Armenian cross stones depicting the Christian cross, and other religious and typical Armenian symbols.
7. Garni Temple
Another outstanding example of the ancient architecture and cultural achievement of Armenia is the Garni Temple, which is located 30 kilometers east of Yerevan. The construction of this pre-pagan temple is estimated to have been in the second century BC. Its Greco-Roman style makes the Garni Temple unique in Armenia and undoubtedly reminds travelers of the Greek Acropolis.
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| The Temple of Garni Armenia |
Art from its unique position and outstanding design, it is also worth visiting Garni für Natur. The pagan pagoda has streams that flow through the hills and the valley. Although you can get to know the scenery from the temple yourself, it is worth going downriver and getting closer to the rock walls.
8. Khandzhorsek
In terms of the background, the centuries-old cave village of Khandzhorsek is one of the most beautiful in the country. This municipality, which borders Azerbaijan, is located on a slope and consists of natural and man-made caves.
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| Khndzoresk swing bridge and ancient cave village in Armenia |
In contrast to its almost prehistoric gesture, Khondzorsk was already inhabited in the 1950s. You can peek through the caves and – if you dare – cross the suspension bridge that was built from the gorge to Khondzores. The building is 160 meters away and offers daredevils with breathtaking expanses over the valley and the cave village.
9. Actmiadzin Cathedral
Etchmiadzin Cathedral is 20 km from the heart of Yerevan in the city of Vagharshat. The church is the mother church of the Armenian Eastern Church and is considered to be the oldest church in the world. Construction was completed in 303, just two years after Armenia accepted Christianity as the state religion.
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| Holy Etchmiadzin Church near Yerevan |
There are fascinating interior walls and vaulted ceilings, as well as impressive altars. A public bus service connects Yerevan and Wagarshat, making it easy to try a quick visit to the church. You can enter Etchmiadzin for free.
10. Norwank Gorge
The Norwank Gorge perfectly showcases the natural and cultural treasures in the vicinity of Armenia. Orange rock formations, flora and rare animals like the Persian leopard make this valley best with an incomparable peal. In the gorge you will also find the attractive Norwank Monastery.
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| Noravank monastery |
With red and yellow rocks in the background, it can even compete with the 12th century Khor Vir Abbey when it comes to scenic landscapes.
Summary
If you are interested in culture and also want to spend a large part of your trip in breathtaking nature, Armenia is an excellent option.
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