Guided tour: Khor Virap, Noravank Monastery, Areni, Jermuk

Khor Virap

1 hour

The name of Khor Virap monastery is translated as “deep dungeon”. The first Catholicos of All Armenians Saint Gregory the Illuminator, was imprisoned here for 13 years by the order of the Armenian pagan king Tiridates III for the preaching Christianity. When the king was stricken with a disease his sister saw a dream: an angel told her that Tiridates would be saved only after the liberation of Gregory the Illuminator. Thus the king released Gregory the Illuminator, and the latter healed the king. After the cure the king proclaimed Christianity as the state religion. Khor Virap has an important historical significance for Armenia. Today tourists have the opportunity to descend into the underground dungeon which is located inside St. Gregory the Illuminator chapel. The best view of the holy mountain Ararat opens from the territory of the monastery.

Noravank Monastery

1 hour

Noravank monastery is located in Vayots Dzor province, 3 km northeast of Amaghu village. The name of the monastery is translated as “new monastery”. Noravank was built in the 13-14th centuries. The monastery complex is located on a steep mountain ledge, near the cliff. The territory is “framed” by unusual cliffs of bright red color, which create a very picturesque background for the buildings. Noravank was an important cultural and spiritual center in the Middle Ages; it also served as the residence of the bishops of Syunik province. Noravank monastery is one of the most visited attractions in Armenia. The complex is a magnificent architectural and artistic creation. The monastery was completely restored.

Jermuk

2 hours

The healing characteristics of local mineral springs are the reason why a great amount of visitors come to Jermuk city each year. The name “Jermuk” is translated as a “hot spring” from Armenian. It is also renowned for its health resorts, wonderful nature and pure mountain air.
Jermuk ropeway is located at the beginning of the city and was founded in 2007 by the Austrian “Leitner” organization.

Areni Wine Factory

1 hour

People who appreciate good wines and are interested in the history of ancient architecture, will definitely fall in love with the tiny Armenian Areni village. The “Areni Wine” festival has been arranged here every autumn since 2009; over 100 types of finest Armenian wines are presented at the festival and visitors can taste and purchase young and old wines manufactured at the Areni winery.

Yerevan

5 hours

Trip from Yerevan to the Points of Interest and back, and a stop for meal and free time will fill the rest of the time