Armenia is a nation endowed with history, culture, and magnificent landscapes which is why it is sometimes called the Land of Churches. Armenia is a country to be remembered by the travelers who want to experience the blend of spiritual heritage, magnificent architecture, and gorgeous landscape. No matter whether you intend to visit Armenia briefly or on a long trip, this Armenia travel guide will point out the most recognizable Armenian Monuments that you can not possibly afford to skip when traveling with Go Kite Tours.
1. Garni Temple: Paganism of Armenia
Garni Temple is the outstanding memory of the pre-Christian Armenia. This temple is a Hellenistic-style temple that was constructed in the 1st century AD and is devoted to the sun god, Mihr, and the only colonnaded building in the area of Greco-Roman style. Garni Temple is approximately 30 kilometers east of Yerevan but apart from giving visitors a glimpse into the ancient Armenian civilization it also provides them with beautiful scenery of the Azat River Gorge that surrounds the temple.
In addition to the temple, this place is renowned due to its Symphony of Stones, a geological structure of basalt columns that are designed in the form of organ pipes. Garni is a key destination to visit when one wants to admire dramatic landscape photography and history lovers.
2. Geghard Monastery: UNESCO world heritage
Geghard Monastery is one of the most fascinating Armenian Monuments that is located just a short drive away after Garni. This 4 th century monastery, which is partly hewn out of a cliff, is an example of medieval Armenian architecture. It is called after the spear (Geghard) which is believed to have cut Jesus Christ and was previously kept in the monastery.
In Geghard, the tourists can explore the image of stone interior carvings, concealed chambers and the old khachkars (cross-stones), all of which are characteristic of religious art in Armenia. The green scenery and cliffs of the area provide a calm environment that makes it a spiritual and photographic feature of Armenia on any list.
3. Khor Virap: a Window View to Mount Ararat
Apart from other Armenian Monuments, it is impossible to have a tour of Armenian Monuments without a visit to Khor Virap; it is a monastery which has a history and religious value that cannot be underestimated. Khor Virap, which is situated on the border with Turkey, is known to have panoramic views of the Mount Ararat a symbol that is heavily connected with the Armenian identity and mythology.
The monastery is located on the location where Saint Gregory the Illuminator served 13 years in prison before converting the King Trdat III to Christianity and making Armenia the first country to embrace Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD. The tourists may go down the small underground cell, inside which Gregory used to be kept, and see the beautiful chapel, which is surrounded by the great landscapes, representing the natural beauty of Armenia.
4. Noravank Monastery: A Wonder among Cliffs of Red
Noravank Monastery is the dramatic and impressive structure that is built on red cliffs and represents the example of the architecture in Armenia of the 13 th century. The unique feature of this site is stone carvings, the sole two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church, and the overview of the Amaghu Valley. Noravank is not only a beautiful place, it has a historical significance as a religious and cultural center in the old Armenia.
Noravank is very popular with the photographers and adventure travelers due to the combination of natural landscape and architectural genius. It is in a remote valley, which makes it somewhat mysterious and a discovery, which is a highlight of any travelling plan to Armenia.
5. Etchmiadzin Cathedral: The Inner Core of the Armenian Christianity
One of the pillars of the Armenian spiritual heritage is Etchmiadzin Cathedral which is regarded as the mother of all Armenian Apostolic churches. This 4 th century cathedral is also considered one of the oldest Christian cathedrals in the world and it is found at Vagharshapat. The legend that Christ himself came down to make his stamp on the building of the cathedral is the name given to it, which, in English, means the Descent of the Only-Begotten.
The cathedral complex has a number of chapels, old relics and a museum with holy artifacts. The Cathedral of Etchmiadzin is a historical and spiritual landmark to every history and religion enthusiast visiting Armenia because it is a place that gives an insight into the longstanding Christian heritage of the country.
6. Zwartnots Cathedral: The Architectural Wonder
Zwartnots Cathedral, which is in ruins, is an outstanding piece of the example of medieval Armenian architecture. It was constructed in the 7 th century but it was a magnificent building with creative designs that shaped the church architecture in the region. The fact that it has a circular shape and dominates even when in ruins awe and admiration.
One of the things that a traveler can enjoy when visiting Zvartnots is the architectural genius of Armenians and the richness of history of their religious buildings. The location of the place close to Yerevan makes it an easy and rich visit to any person who wants to see the country.
Verdict: Explore Armenian Monuments Go Kite Tours
Tracing the historical magnificence and spirituality of Armenia through its Armenian Monuments is a journey that cannot be traced with any other journey. Each place is a distinct story of religion, culture and survival, whether it is in an ancient temple or a cliffside monastery all the way to a landmark cathedrals. Travelling with Go Kite Tours lets you experience Armenia in a pleasant way and leave the organisation of your trip to the company.
To the cost-conscious travelers, such memorable experiences are fully attainable using Armenia affordable travel packages. You can be an adventure traveler, a history lover, or a cultural tourist but Armenia will give you the memories that will be permanent.
