Photo by Anoush Tadevosian
10 interesting places to visit in Armenia
Probably you are already aware of Armenia places of interest such us Garni, Sevan or Tatev Monastery.
Thus, in its modest territory there are still some places you have no idea about. Only locals know that spots!
Like other places, these ones are also part of rich history and culture. They are worth visiting.
1. Jukhtak Monastery
Making an effort to read and understand the name of monastery? Probably it’s quite difficult! But don’t give up! Here the name of the monastery really matters. “Jukhtak” is the colloquial word for “twins”.
Still confused, because you think that word “twins” has nothing to do with monastery? You are in Armenia – the country of thousand and one churches. Every single thing connected with the construction of a church matters!
Jukhtak monastery is a 11th-12th century church located in Dilijan National Park. There are two churches. The larger church is called St. Gregory. Unfortunately, the dome collapsed long ago, but the main walls remain intact.
Not far from it St. Astvatsatsin, the smaller church stands. According to local legend, the churches were built in honor of two brothers! It’s one of the explanations to the name. The churches sit right in the clearing surrounded with trees.
The landscape is really catching. And it’s a good place to have a rest while in contact with God! The entrance is free
However, a little piece of the road to the churches you have to walk. But don’t worry. During your walk, you’ll experience the harmony and beauty of Armenian nature.
2. Lake “Kari”
If you are crazy about mountains then this lake may be one of your desired places to visit in Armenia. The lake is located in the slopes of Mount Aragats. It is formed mostly due to ice and snow. Accordingly, the water is quite cold.
In these sparkling waters one can see the lake floor very clearly. Locals say you can even count the stones in it. By the way, the name “kari or kar” is the Armenian version for English “stone”.
According to the legend St. Gregory the Illuminator climbed to the top of the mountain to pray. At that time, a lantern appeared right above his head from heavens. Natives believe that the lantern is still there and is hanging over the lake.
Only the chosen ones can see it. So, try your luck and head to lake “Kari”. May be you are the chosen one! Who know?
3. Lake “Gosh”
Emerald green forests of Tavush Region have a lot to share. If you want to get in touch with nature, enjoy its calmness and fantastic scenery, then take a trip to the lake “Gosh”.
Located in the heart of the forests, far from human touch, the lake becomes more catching. It is one of the Armenia points of interests for those who love to explore the nature.
Besides, Lake Gosh is one of the marvelous destinations for camping, hiking, fishing and even jeep touring. But before getting to the lake, don’t miss the chance to admire another amazing heritage of Armenian architecture. It is Goshavank monastery complex in the 12th century.
It will take you nearly two hours to get to this point from Yerevan.
4. Lastiver
Even during the ancient times, the primitive man knew; nature may heal. Yeah! When thinking about this concept Lastiver comes to mind as one of the places to visit in Armenia. It is located in Tavush Region, not far from city of Ijevan.
Lastiver Cave, waterfalls and little wooden houses are the favorite places of Armenians to hang out with friend or family.
During middle ages the Cave served as a hiding place for locals. As for the waterfall, it is one of the wonders of Nature. The pond that takes up the cave never changes the water level, even if you try to remove it.
Campground is built near the river. So, when in Lastiver, you merge with nature and get rid of bad emotions. It will take you some three hours to get to Lastiver from Yerevan. You just have to arrive in Ijevan from Northern station and ask locals to take you to Lastiver.
5. Sevsar (Black Mount)
It needs no proof that Armenia is the cradle of mankind. People were familiar with science, arts and crafts. Besides Armenians were astronomers as well. There are evidences to support the fact.
Karahunj in Syunik Region and Sevsar in Gegharkunik Region come to prove it. An ancient petroglyph was found on the slopes of Sevsar in north Armenia. Yet, some scholars think that the rock paintings are linked to arrivals of aliens and featured the stars on the rocks.
They tend to think that way because it’s hard to believe that people leaving in the 3rd millennia would be able to explore the Universe. But, this is Armenia and natives are very talented. So, everything is possible.
However, the real meaning of these petroglyphs hasn’t yet been encoded. If want to take glimpse at the secrets of the past and want to unveil it on your own, just head to Gegharkunik Region! Mysterious Sevsar is really amazing place to visit in Armenia.
6. “The Army” of Khachkars (Cross stones)
Cross stones are one of the symbols of Armenia. Whenever you choose places to visit in Armenia, you probably come across some churches or sacred points that stand out with their unique khachkars with subtle ornaments.
However, there is place here that is known as “the army” of khachkars. The name is not an accidental choice. It bears its history. The village Noratus located in Gegharkunik Region is very famous for its cross-stone army.
The history of 900 cross stones dates back to 9-18 centuries. They are of about 1.5 meters. The legend states that once ottoman troops invaded Gegharkunik. The prince Gegham had a little number of soldiers. What he did was to order locals to put military clothes on cross stones.
The enemy got the impression that Gegham’s troops were larger in number than his. They just ran away. This is how the stones saved Armenians and the place got its name.
7. Lori Fortress
Armenians have always been devoted Christians and educated people. They built churches and schools all around Armenia. Besides, they knew how to defend themselves as well. They constructed fortresses as well.
Though partly in ruins, these buildings are in Armenia points of interest. So, meet one of Lori fortress in the town of Stepanavan, Lori Region. The fortress was built by David Anhoghin in 10th century.
This defensive complex was a real safeguard for the town. Today the ruins of various buildings include two preserved bath-houses. The fortress rested on a mountain plateau surrounded by deep ravine of Dzoraget river.
Two bridges linked the two sides of the ravine. One of them was destroyed, whereas the second one was restored and is used by the residents of Stepanavan.
8. Tavush Fortress or Fortress of Tslik Amram
The ministers in Medieval Armenia used to live in fortresses. The Tavush fortress belong to minister Tslik Amram, under Bagratuni dynasty in the 10th century.
As you may guess, the fortress is located in Tavush Region and it will take some three hours to rich there from Yerevan. Believe us, it’s worth seeing. Resting at the top of a hill, the fortress had running water.
By the way, this is not the only fortress in Armenia that had water supply. This fortress was an administrative center as well. During excavations, clay vessels, glass necklaces and ion weapons were found, dating back to 5-4thB.C. This means the site was populated even before the Bagratuni dynasty.
9. Tapi Fortress or Fortress of Gevorg Marzpetuni
Gevorg Marzpetuni is one of the famous and devoted commanders of medieval Armenian history. He owned this fortress.
So, Tapi Berd fortress or Gevorg Marzpetuni fortress represents a great architectural value. It is situated 6 km. north-west from Urtsadzor village, on the right bank of Khosrov river in Ararat Province, on the hills, and is surrounded by the walls having rectangular composition.
There are inhabited and economic vaulted constructions adjacent to the southern and eastern walls built in 10th-13th centuries. Inside the walls there is a 13th century church. The Tap place name is mentioned in the epigraphic inscriptions of 1256 on the northern walls of the church.
There are several fragments of khachkars also in the territory of the fortress.
10. Mansion of Aghasi Khanjyan
Famous Armenians loved to spend their free time in picturesque town of Dilijan, Tavush Region. Beautiful nature and mild climate appealed them a lot.
The politician Aghasi Khanjyan was no exception. In the woods of Dilijan, he built a mansion. It was unique due to its architectural value.
Unfortunately, the building is severely damaged now. But still, when looking at it, one can understand how gorgeous it was in the past.
Locals love to spend their time near the mansion. The green clearing surroun
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