Sacred Armenia: 10-Day Pilgrimage Through History and Faith

Transfer to the selected hotel

City tour – Yerevan sightseeing including City center, Republic square, State University, City panorama, Mother Armenia Monument, Parliament, President’s Palace, Opera, Swan Lake,  Sports & Concert Complex. Visit to the Genocide Memorial, dedicated to the Victims of 1915 and the Genocide Museum.

Visit Matenadaran, home to one of the world’s largest collections of 17,000 ancient manuscripts. This outstanding collection includes manuscripts dating from 7th century and is widely appreciated by history and art amateurs and professionals.

Visit to Cascade complex, which is considered the modern art center of Yerevan, with art pieces displayed throughout the whole area: the boulevard and up the stairs, from top of which you can enjoy the panoramic view on the city and Mountain Ararat. Cascade is home to Cafesjan modern art museum. This place becomes even more charming in the evenings, when it is full of people, both locals and tourists from all over the world, enjoying the magic and the warmth of the capital. You will enjoy spending time in one of the cozy open-air cafes surrounded by beautiful sculptures, redolent flowers shining brightly with magic colors. It is also a popular place for open air concerts at summer season.

Visit the Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator, which is currently the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Etchmiadzin City, which is used to be the ancient capital of Armenia. Since 4th century, it is the largest religious center, the residency of Catholicos of All Armenians. Etchmiadzin cathedral is one of the ancient churches in the Christian world, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (2000), and is the center of Armenian Apostolic Church. It was founded in 301 A.D. by St. Gregory the Illuminator. Later, it was rebuilt and currently it stands as a complex including the Cathedral, Spiritual Academy, residency of the Catholicos of all Armenians, Synod of Armenian Church and a library. The museum of the Cathedral has collection of religious artifacts about Holy Mass, subjects made of gold, silver, precious stones, decorations, colossal silver boiler for making the myrrh and legendary Holy spear.

Visit the church of St. Gayane (VII c), who died for the spread of Christianity in Armenia. It is located to the south from the Cathedral and was founded in 630 by Catholicos Ezr.

Before entering in the town of Echmiadzin visit the majestic St. Hripsime Church. The legend of Hripsime dates from the early days of Christianity. Hripsime fled to Armenia to escape persecution by the Roman Emperor Diocletian. A beautiful but totally devoted follower of Christ, Hripsime refused to marry the pagan Armenian King Tirdat III when ordered, and chose the death of a martyr. A small chapel was erected over the spot where she was murdered. In the 7th century a wondrous church – a masterpiece of Armenian architecture – was built in its place by order of Catholicos Komitas.

Another highlight is the visit to the Church of St. Shoghakat, also part of the spiritual complex of Echmiadzin. According to legend, this church was built where a divine ray (“Shoghakat”) fell on the martyrs. Built in the 17th century, this church offers a peaceful atmosphere and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

A trip to one of the architectural wonders of Armenia: Zvartnots temple (641-661) the temple of “Vigil Forces”, which got its name from the word “Zwart”, which translated from Armenian means “joyful and beautiful.” The remaining ruins give an idea of the rare beauty of this temple. The temple is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2000).

Overnight in Yerevan

Breakfast at the hotel. Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Ararat valley towards Khor Virap Church, an important Christian pilgrimage site located atop a small dungeon where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for spreading Christianity in Armenia for 13 years. St. Gregory’s release in 301 AD marked a pivotal moment in history, as Armenia became the first nation in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion.

Here you can also see the closest and most spectacular view of the gorgeous biblical mountain Ararat (where Noah’s ark has landed according to Bible) shining with its two white peaks. From this area Ararat is so near that one feels he can touch those two peaks of the mountain.

Continue the tour to Areni, a village where archaeologists have recently uncovered the earliest known vineyards, dating back 6,000 years, alongside five ancient wineries. These remarkable discoveries include tools and objects used in winemaking, such as a wine press for stomping grapes, fermentation and storage vessels, and drinking cups. Areni stands out as the first archaeological site where the complete wine production process of ancient times has been fully observed.

Adding to its historical significance, in 2008, archaeologists discovered a 5,500-year-old leather shoe in Areni. Made from a single piece of leather, this extraordinary find is several centuries older than the shoe worn by Ötzi the Iceman, making it the oldest known leather footwear in the world.

Visit the charming small Sourp Astvatsatsin Church (Holy Mother of God).

Next stop is Noravank monastery complex (XIII century) – a major religious and cultural center. The magnificent landscape of mountains, surrounding the monastery, displays a beautiful array of colors from the sun’s reflection. The monastery is remarkable not only for its position among the red rocks but also for its extreme architectural value. The monastery is rich with the Armenian emblematic frets. Many visitors find the view so mesmerizing that they opt to walk the final stretch to the monastery, capturing the beauty of the canyon and its unique rock formations. This masterpiece is closely linked to the medieval Armenian architect and sculptor Momik, whose works adorn this remarkable site.

Drive to the southern part of Armenia – Goris. On way visit Qarahunj or Zorats Karer, which  is proved to be one of the oldest, 7500 years old observatories in the world. Currently it stands as precisely arranged stones in the field with the holes that were used for astrological observations. The petroglyphs found nearby Karahunj prove that the early inhabitants in Armenia were well aware of astrology. Karahunj has been named by tourists “the Armenian Stonehenge”.

Continue to Goris, check in hotel.

Overnight in Goris

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a scenic drive to the stunning Tatev Monastery (IX-XIII cc), one of the most important spiritual and intellectual centers in Armenia,  located atop a dramatic plateau surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Enjoy a ride on the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest cable car at 5.7 kilometers, officially recognized by the Guinness World Records. Soar over deep canyons and rugged terrain as you make your way to and from this medieval masterpiece, a renowned center of Armenian spirituality and culture.

Drive to Sevan Lake, one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in Eurasia, via the scenic Selim Pass. Along the way, visit the historic Selim Pass Caravanserai (14th century), a significant resting point for caravans traveling along the Silk Road, offering a glimpse into the trade and cultural exchanges of the medieval era.

Continue to Noratus Cemetery, located near Sevan Lake. This remarkable site is often described as a field of intricately carved khachkars (cross stones) from medieval times, showcasing the artistry and devotion of medieval Christian culture.

End the day with check-in at your hotel in Sevan, where you can relax and take in the serene beauty of the lake.

Overnight in Sevan

Breakfast at the hotel. In Sevan, climb on Sevan peninsula from where the fascinating view on the Lake is open. Visit Sevanavank (IX c) monastery, which stands in its greatness on the peninsula overlooking the lake for centuries.

Drive to mountainous resort Dilijan, or so called “Armenian Switzerland”, which is well-known for its forests as well as for its mysterious flora and fauna. During the drive one can enjoy the unbelievable change of the surrounding environment and land shaft from the mountainous lake to the green and rich forest mountains.

Small walking city tour in Dilijan: visit to handicrafts’ street, where one can watch the preparation of different national souvenirs from wood, stone and ceramics.

Visit to Haghartsin Monastery complex which is located in the secluded place of the forest. Haghartsin dates back to XI-XIII th  century and represent a magnificent piece of history, culture and architecture. The place is so unique and the scenery with the nature surrounding it is so breathtaking that most of visitors are in awe. Appearing unexpectedly, out of the dense forests, in front of the visitors, the Monastery creates a magical impression of a lost world. Complex includes Church St. Stepanos, St. Mary and St. Gregory’s Church, as well as famous refectory.

Visit the monastery of Goshavank (XII-XIII centuries), a remarkable XII-XIII century complex nestled in the picturesque village of Gosh. Founded by the prominent scholar Mkhitar Gosh, this monastery was a significant cultural and educational center in medieval Armenia.

Overnight in Dilijan

Breakfast at the hotel.

Trip to the northern Armenia, the magical place of forested mountains and deep canyons. Visit the masterpieces of medieval Armenian architecture – Sanahin Monastery (centuries IX – XII) and Haghpat Monastery (centuries XI – XIII), which are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage (2000). They are located in the northern part of Armenia, in the region of Lori, near the town of Alaverdi. The monasteries were important religious centers as around 500 monks lived there. They were also schools and manuscript repositories.

Sanahin Monastery is among the most famous monasteries of medieval Armenia. It is a complex of Churches included the Church of Holy Mother of God, the Church of San Amenaprkich, the Chapel of San Gregorio (X century), a building of the Academy (XI century), a depositary (XI century), a building of Gallery (X century), a hall (XII century) and bells (XIII century). All these buildings are around the ancient Church of Blessed Virgin old Church.  The Academy of Sanahin, established in the 11th century, played a crucial role in the preservation of Armenian culture, arts, and sciences. Famous Armenian scientists taught at the academy. In the twelfth century, Sanahin had a medical school. There were many notable people who graduated from the school; one of them is the singer and musician national Sayat-Nova.

Visit to Haghpat Monastery, located in the north-eastern part of Sanahin, was built with its resemblance. The monastery’s bell tower, built in 1245, stands apart from the main ensemble of monuments, and is architecturally noteworthy. The complex was once home to libraries, scriptoriums, schools and refectories. Arts and humanities, theology, painting were taught here. The most interesting feature about Haghpat is the refectory (XIII c.).

Drive to Akhtala monastery, which was built in XIII th c. and is unique for having well preserved fresco paintings on inside walls. The village, where the monastery is located, is situated on the left bank of river Debed. There are numerous archaeological sites surrounding the village.

Another significant stop on this journey is Odzun Monastery, which is located in the upper Lori region, nestled in the picturesque village of Odzun. This ancient monastery, dating back to the VI century, is a remarkable example of early Christian Armenian architecture. Known for its distinctive basilica design and impressive row of arches, Odzun stands as a testament to Armenia’s rich ecclesiastical heritage. The monastery played an essential role in the early spread of Christianity in the region and became an important cultural and religious center. Set against the stunning backdrop of Debed Canyon, the monastery offers both historical intrigue and breathtaking natural beauty.

Drive to Yerevan. Check in hotel.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to the only remaining pagan temple in Armenia devoted to the God of Sun – Myrth, in Garni, built in 77AD by King Trdat (Arshakid Dynasty). The temple is Greco-Roman style with characteristic pillars. It stands proudly on a rocky ridge with a deep canyon presenting a beautiful view. The temple was a summer residence for Arshakid dynasty. Visit to the ruins of Royal Palace and Royal bath-house nearby. Canyon of Garni -magnificent and outstanding scene which creates the image of falling crags. It obtained the name “Symphony of Stones” due to its view. The fantastic landscape of Garni canyon shakes the human imagination.

Optional: Experience a traditional flat bread – lavash baking demonstration and enjoy a family-hosted lunch.

Optional: Small performance of Armenian national musical instrument ,,Duduk’’ (Tsiranapogh- means Tsiran- apricot, pogh- trumpet). After the local musician will describe the origin, nature, symbolism of Duduk and fully experience its rich and versatile music. One of the most famous performances of the duduk was featured in the movie “Gladiator”, where its soulful tones perfectly captured the film’s emotional depth and timeless appeal. Duduk and its music were inscribed in 2008 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (originally proclaimed in 2005).

Drive to the unique caved temple St. Geghard (12th -13thcc.), the name of which means “holy spear” in the honor of the long-preserved spear, the same spear that pierced the body of crucified Christ. It is now exhibited in the museum of Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Geghard Monastery is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list (2000). The monastery is hidden in the majestic rocks and this scene creates an impression that the rocks have been protecting the ancient monastery for ages.

Optional: Enhance your visit with a mesmerizing concert of liturgical songs. Experience the monastery’s remarkable acoustics, where the crystal-clear harmonies resonate beautifully within the ancient stone walls.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Saghmosavank Monastery (XIII), a stunning medieval complex perched dramatically on the edge of the Qasakh Gorge. The breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon perfectly complement the serene beauty and historical significance of the monastery, which has stood as a center of learning and spirituality since the 13th century.

Continue to the Saint George Monastery of Mougni, located 2 km from the town of Ashtarak. This monastery, founded in the 14th century and rebuilt between 1661 and 1669, preserves the relics of Saint George, making it an important place of pilgrimage. Built on the site of an ancient sanctuary, the monastery is considered one of the most remarkable monuments of Armenian architecture.

Drive to Tegher Monastery (13th-14th centuries). Built of dark grey basalt, this monastery is located on a hilltop offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Continue your journey with a visit to the Amberd Fortress, an impressive XI-XIII century citadel perched high on the slopes of Mount Aragats, at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level. This fortress was once the residence of the noble Pahlavuni family and served as a strategic military site. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscapes are simply breathtaking.

Overnight in Yerevan.