Table of Contents
Introduction
With a history stretching back thousands of years, Armenia offers travelers the chance to step directly into the past. Dotted with ancient temples, fortresses, churches and monasteries set amidst stunning natural scenery, Armenia is an ideal destination for history buffs. From pre-Christian era archaeological wonders, to religious sites dating back to the 4th century AD, Armenia is brimming with historic places waiting to be explored. Let’s take a tour through some of the must-see historic and cultural sites across this small but hugely historic country.
Etchmiadzin Cathedral
No roundup of historic highlights is complete without a visit to Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Located in Vagharshapat, this site has enormous significance as the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and Armenian Christians worldwide. Known as the “Mother Cathedral of Armenia,”Etchmiadzin Cathedral was first built between 301 and 303 AD by Armenia’s patron saint Gregory the Illuminator following the country’s conversion to Christianity. Entering the semicircular brick walls, you’ll find intricately detailed mosaics, frescoes and carved altarpieces inside. This cathedral is truly an architectural wonder offering a palpable sense of the long continuity of Armenian faith and culture.
Geghard Monastery
Just a short drive from the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni, you’ll find the medieval marvel of Geghard Monastery. Partly made up of chambers and tombs hewn from solid rock, this monastery dates back to the 4th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geghard amazes visitors with its intricate khachkars (carved stone crosses) and glowing cave chapels bathed in candlelight. The natural acoustics inside parts of the complex are incredible too, earning it the nickname “Monastery of Song.”
Garni Temple
Transport yourself even further back in time at the Garni Temple. Perched high above the Garni Gorge, this remarkably intact pagan temple was built in the 1st century AD as a temple to the sun god Mithra. Though Armenia officially converted to Christianity in the 4th century, this ancient monument remains as a striking symbol of its pre-Christian past. The temple is composed of carved basalt blocks assembled without mortar in a classical Greek style. Wander amid the Ionic columns and carvings of symbolic figures, getting a feel for Armenia’s ancient roots.
Amberd Fortress
Dramatically situated at 2300m above sea level stands the Amberd Fortress. Built in the 7th century AD, this fortress played a strategic defensive role for Armenian nobles and rulers over the centuries. Despite some damage by earthquakes, its walls and structure remain largely intact offering great views over the mountains and River Arkhashan from its position. Amberd’s elevation means temperatures are cooler, so bring warm layers to explore the medieval bathhouses, archer’s tower and vaulted chambers on-site.
Lake Sevan
Yerevan city life not quite your speed? Escape to the tranquility of turquoise blue Lake Sevan. This vast freshwater lake sits nearly 2000m above sea level surrounded by stunning scenery. As well as being a popular beach and watersports destination for Armenians, Lake Sevan holds great historic importance. The lakeshore is dotted with old monasteries, like the 9th century Sevanavank Monastery, and ancient cemeteries with intricate khachkar grave markers. The blue, hazy beauty of Lake Sevan is an ideal place to slow down and take in Armenia’s natural and historic charms.
Tatev Monastery
Another must-visit Armenian monastery is Tatev, perched on a plateau overlooking the dramatic Vorotan River gorge. Dating back to the 9th century, Tatev grew to become an important center of learning and culture over the centuries. It can be reached via the “Wings of Tatev” cableway, an engineering feat spanning 5.7 km with stunning views along the ride. Exploring the stone walls and arched halls of the monastery, you’ll feel a sense of peace and tranquility settles through this historic complex surrounded by rugged cliffs.
Haghpat Monastery
Listed jointly with nearby Sanahin Monastery as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remote and romantic Haghpat Monastery shouldn’t be missed. Founded in the 10th century, Haghpat was one of the chief spiritual centers of medieval Armenia. Wandering through its stone courtyards, churches and tombs, you’ll see intricate detailing in the carved crosses, khachkars and frescoes. Set amidst forested mountains by the Debed river canyon, Haghpat’s beautiful natural surroundings enhance the sense of tranquility within its historic buildings.
Archaeology Museum of Armenia
Based in Yerevan, the Archaeology Museum provides fascinating insights into Armenia’s ancient past. With a collection spanning the Stone Age up to the Middle Ages, the range of treasures is remarkable. Don’t miss exhibits like the famous 5,500 year old leather shoe, perfectly preserved Bronze Age tools, weapons and jewelry, and Urartianera ceramics. With informative displays in English, this museum brings Armenia’s layers of history vividly to life.
Matenadaran – Museum of Ancient Manuscripts
From archaeological artifacts to illuminated manuscripts, Yerevan’s Matenadaran museum houses an astonishing range of Armenian treasures. The world’s largest repository of medieval manuscripts, Matenadaran’s collection of over 25,000 items dates back over 1000 years. Hour upon hour could be spent gazing at these preserved records of Armenian religious, artistic and philosophical thought through the centuries. Don’t miss the chance to see masterpieces like the 10th century Gospels of Ardish written on purple-dyed parchment in gold ink.
Conclusion
A visit to Armenia opens a window directly onto its rich history spanning thousands of years. Nowhere else allows you to walk in the footsteps of past eras in quite the same way, whether wandering through medieval monasteries, standing before ancient fortresses, or gazing at archaeological treasures from the Stone Age onward. Yet with its friendly people, modern conveniences and natural beauty, Armenia also offers the chance to thoroughly enjoy these moments stepping into history. For history buffs and cultural travelers alike, Armenia undoubtedly deserves a spot high on your travel bucket list. Time your visit right to catch its historic sites at their most magical in mild weather, and start planning your own journey into Armenia’s past today.
FAQs
FAQ 1: How easy is it to get around Armenia’s historic sites without a car?
Armenia has a reliable network of long distance marshrutka minibuses connecting major towns and cities. These can be used to reach many sites, combined with tours or taxis for the last stretch. Buses run from Yerevan to sites like Garni, Geghard, Lake Sevan and Tatev. You can also join organized day tours from Yerevan to places like Amberd Fortress.
FAQ 2: Where is the best area or town to stay as a base for visiting different historic sites in Armenia?
Yerevan offers the most extensive choice of accommodations from hostels to hotels, and great transport links, making it a convenient base. Other good options are towns like Dilijan and Goris which are more central if focusing just on northern or southern Armenia.
FAQ 3: What’s the best time of year to visit Armenia’s historic sites for pleasant weather?
Late spring through early fall, from around mid-April to October, offer mild temperatures great for exploring sites comfortably, especially important at higher elevations. Summer can be very hot but fantastic for Lake Sevan.
FAQ 4: Is it safe traveling around Armenia and visiting historic and cultural sites?
Armenia is a very safe country overall, especially regarding violent crime. Basic precautions regarding pickpockets in crowded areas apply. Most sites are very safe with no particular risks beyond normal traveling anywhere.
FAQ 5: What options are there to extend my trip to see more of Armenia’s history and culture?
Consider visits to Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city with 19th century architecture, the cave villages of Khndzoresk, or southern towns like Goris and Jermuk surrounding stunning nature. Armenia also offers great day hiking opportunities.