Known for being the first Christian country in the world, Armenia has historic buildings and surprising natural landscapes.
A people of struggles and easy smiles
Few destinations are as iconic as Armenia. Beautiful landscapes and historic monuments are a filling dish for tourists who venture around the country.
Among the attractions, there are medieval monasteries that merge with the scenic landscapes, ready to offer a unique experience to visitors.
Touristic spots
Yerevan
Yeravan is a city of contrasts where the modern and the traditional go hand in hand. On a short walk around the city, it's easy to observe the old taverns with traditional dishes next to modern cafés. More than that, Yerevan is the historic capital of Armenia and has a lot to offer its visitors with squares, parks and a variety of monuments.
What to do in Yerevan
- Although part of a tragic past, starting a trip through Armenia at the Tsitsernakaberd, the Armenian Genocide Memorial is a way of getting to know the country's history in depth. On the outside there are two ribbed pillars that symbolize Western Armenia (which is currently part of Turkish territory) and Eastern Armenia. At the center, the eternal flame has been burning since its opening ceremony in honor of the victims.
In the space dedicated to the museum, it is possible to take a walk through history, from the pre-genocide era, to interviews and eyewitness accounts that speak of the survivors' anguish. - A city tour is perfect for discovering some historic sights, such as Republic Square and Abovyan Street.
- In the city center, the Cascade Complex has an enormous staircase with terraces adorned with statues and millimetrically planned gardens. From the top it is possible to have a panoramic view of Mount Ararat.
Also inside the complex is the Cafesjian Arts Center, which is dedicated to bringing the best of contemporary art to the country.
Garni and Geghard
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Garni and Geghard temples are close to Yerevan and can be visited on a full-day tour.
- The Garni Temple is the last Greco-Roman building in Armenia and represents the pre-Christian era in the country. At the edge of a cliff, surrounded by mountains and above the Azat River, the view is an undisputed complement to a visit to the monument.
- The Ghegard Monastery is close to Garni and is truly magical. Carved by rocks and surrounded by cliffs, it offers incredible mountain landscapes. According to Christian belief, when you say a prayer and tie a ribbon of cloth to the trees near the monastery, your wish will come true.
Khor Virap Monastery
It is among the country's postcards and perhaps has the most beautiful view of Mount Ararate. It was here that Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for years before curing King Trdat III of a serious illness. After the cure, the king converted to the Christian religion and made it official throughout Armenia, the first Christian country in the world.
Echmiadzin
The Echmiadzin Cathedral plays an important role in Armenian history, because in addition to being the first Christian church in the world, it was built on the same site as an old pagan temple, creating even more symbolism for the faithful. Although it was built much earlier, its current form was finalized in the 17th century, when a dome, a tower and the Persian frescoes were added to its interior.
Suggested itinerary through Armenia
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