Day 01
Garni, Geghard, Garni Gorge, and Charents' Arch
- Meet your tour guide for pickup in Yerevan and visit the following places:
- The pagan Temple of Garni: It was built in the second half of the 1st century by King Trdat III. This is the only pagan temple preserved on the territory of Armenia. After the adoption of Christianity, it became the summer residence of Khosrovadukht, sister of King Trdat III. It was destroyed in 1679 by an earthquake. Parts and fragments of graceful columns and wall stones were spread around the temple. It is supposed that the temple was dedicated to Mithra, the God of the Sun.
- Geghard Monastery: It is one of the greatest medieval architectural structures in Armenia. Geghard is completely hollowed out in a cave, and it is also called a "cave monastery." This monastery was founded in the 4th century AD at the sacred spring originating in the cave. The name of the monastery complex, Geghard (spear), comes from the Langin'n spear, which pierced the body of Jesus Christ on the cross. At the moment, this spear is kept in the Museum of Etchmiadzin. The monastery complex of Geghard is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- Garni Canyon or Gorge: It is attractive for its wonderful natural rocks. The gorge is called the 'Symphony of Stones' or 'Basalt Organ.' The monument consists of huge, paradoxically symmetric hexagonal and pentagonal basalt columns, nearly 50 meters high. These stones hanging against gravity resemble an organ, which explains why it is also referred to as "Basalt Organ Pipes."
- Charents' Arch: It is located near Yerevan, between the pagan Temple of Garni and the Geghard Christian Monastery complex in the village of Vokhchaberd. At first glance, the arch seems ordinary and unremarkable, but as you come closer, step onto the platform inside the arch, and look at the panorama, it becomes clear that this is the best place to admire the great and sacred mountain of Ararat, feel in unity with it, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Return to your stay.
