Itinerary

1. Yerevan

   At your request, the start of the tour is possible from any point in Yerevan.

2. Arch of Charents

   On the way to Garni, near the village of Vokhchabert, there is an unremarkable arch. You would probably miss the arch unless you know what is hidden behind it. Architect Rafael Israelyan dedicated the monument to the Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents, who loved and admired the beauty of Mount Ararat. The place was chosen accurately: you will have the best view of Mount Ararat from the arch. The Arch of Charents was one of the favourite places of the poet. He used to spend time here in search of inspiration.

3. Garni Temple

   The Temple of Garni is a classical Hellenistic temple in Garni, Armenia. It is perhaps the best-known structure and symbol of pre-Christian Armenia. The temple was dedicated to Mythra, a deity popular in the Near East who became the patron goddess of the Roman Empire in the period before Christianity.

4. Geghard Monastery

   Geghard Monastery is a medieval monastery in the Kotayk province, being partially carved out of the adjacent mountain, surrounded by cliffs. The name commonly used for the monastery today, Geghard, or more fully Geghardavank, meaning “the Monastery of the Spear”, originates from the spear which had wounded Jesus at the Crucifixion. It is believed, that the spear was brought to Armenia by Apostle Jude, called here Thaddeus, and stored amongst many other relics. Now it is displayed in the Echmiadzin treasury. The monastery complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with enhanced protection status.

5. Yerevan

   At your request, the end of the tour is possible at any point in Yerevan.