Armenia

In recent few years Armenia has become an increasingly popular tourist destination due to its rich history and scenic beauty including the imposing Peak of Mount Ararat, which dominates the country’s skyline. The mountain are Armenia’s national symbol and Ararat is considered holy by locals due to its mention in The Bible of where Noah’s Ark landed. This is a country of countless Monasteries some of which can be found in areas of spectacular natural beauty.

Armenia’s Capital, Yerevan, is home to the grand Republic Square, while climbing the Cascade to see the city’s monument to Soviet victory in the Second World War. Yerevan is home to the Blue Mosque, the Levons Amazing Underground World a very unusual attraction the Hrazdan Gorge and the Vernissage Market open only on weekends.

Gyumri is the second largest City in Armenia and includes sights like the Black Fortress that sits on the hill that overlooks the city, while the massive Mother Armenia Statue is nearby. Many other important cultural institutions are based in Gyumri including the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life, the National Architecture of Gyumri, the Aslamazyan Sisters House Museum and the Sergey Merkurov House Museum. The Kumayri historic district is the oldest area with hundreds of ancient buildings.

Lake Sevan can be found in the heart of the country, it is known for some of the most stunning scenery. The lake itself is surrounded by beautiful monasteries, the most impressive would have to be the Sevanavank Monastery. Here you will also find recreational activities like windsurfing and also some great restaurants.

Armenia has four National Parks and the most beautiful would have to be Dilijan National Park. A lot of the country’s most important cultural sights can be found within the grounds including the Haghartsin Monastery, Goshavank Monastery, Matosavank Monastery, Jukhtak Vank and the Akhnabat Church.

The Upper Azat Valley is one of Armenia’s World Heritage Sites, due in part to the incredible Geghard Monastery with the 800 year old main Chapel. The Monastery’s history goes back to the 4th Century when it was founded by Gregory the Illuminator.

Monasteries are one of Armenia’s defining characteristics and a fine example is the 13 Century Noravank with its sheer red brick cliffs that shield the Monastery. Noravank is famous for the Astvatsatsin Church (Holy Mother of God). If you only have time to visit a couple of monasteries while in Armenia make sure Noravank is on your list.

Some of the other wonderful sights to take in while in Armenia include the Karahunj Observatory, which is often referred to as the Armenian version of Britain’s Stonehenge. Situated near to the City of Sisian in the Syunik Province, Karahunj is made up of well over 200 massive Stone Tombs, while the main area sees 40 stones standing in a circular formation, supposedly built in honour of the Armenian main God, Ari, named after the Sun.

While Mount Ararat can be seen from all over the country, the best scenery can be viewed from the beautiful Khor Virap Monastery. Its is located on an important historic site and today has become a popular spot for not only tourism but also Armenian weddings.

Mount Aragats is one of Armenia’s most stunning natural sights and also its highest peak, with its dormant Volcano and Rock Art situated around its base that date back hundreds of years.

Vanadzor, situated in in the country’s north is an ideal base to explore the beautiful Lori region. One of the main attractions is the Vanadzor Botanical Garden as well as the Bohem Chamber Theatre, the Vanadzor Puppet Theatre and the Vanadzor fine Art Museum. The area comprises on many mineral springs and you will find a wide range of excellent spas to enjoy.

Tsaghkadzor is extremely mountainous region making it a great for winter sports and skiing. Ski lifts are paid for by the journey and are among the most affordable in Europe. Armenia definitely has a so much to offer.