"""The tour begins at Khor Virap Monastery – with the most breathtaking views of the Biblical Mt. Ararat. The monastery holds significant religious and historical importance - sight where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned and Christianity took its start in Armenia.
This trip continues to the Wine Region of Armenia. Birds or Areni 1 cave is known for the discovery of evidence of several elaborative burial rituals and agricultural practices. The most exciting things uncovered from this cave are the oldest pair of leather shoes, almost 5500 years old and the winery of about 6100 years of age - oldest known winery in the world.
Noravank Monastery is a unique medieval Armenian architectural gem with a two-storied main church. The monastery is surrounded by high cliffs and deep valleys of red and orange volcanic materials.
Lastly, a stop at Areni village.
The Khor Virap monastery is located about an hour’s drive away from the capital Yerevan, and offers an amazing view of Armenia’s defining symbol – the majestic Ararat. “Khor Virap” translates as “deep dungeon”, and was built of the place of the former royal prison, located on the historical site of Artashat. It was this very prison in which they kept Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, for a whole 13 years. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that this place is one of the most sacred spots for Armenians around the world. Likewise, it’s also the closest point to the Mount Ararat from Armenia; very often this spot becomes the number 1 reason to visit our country!
Noravank is one of the gems of medieval Armenian architecture. The church has a distinctive two-story construction. It features a unique (rare for Armenian architecture) second floor, accessed by a narrow staircase, which symbolizes the connection between the earthly and the divine. Surrounded by tall cliffs and beautiful red rocks, this ancient site offers not just spiritual significance but also breathtaking views. Here you will see the one and only depiction of God the Father in Armenia.
The tour will take you to the Bird’s Cave. In 2008, archeologists discovered several of the world’s oldest artifacts, including a leather shoe and a winery. It also contains evidence of elaborate burial rituals and agricultural practices.
You will be given a chance to taste and purchase Armenia’s renowned Areni wine at the Ar-Areni winery.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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