Khor Virap, ancient cave ("Birds-Cave"), Areni (winery)
Cities |
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Group discount starts from | 10 people | ||||
Days | 1 | ||||
Price per person | from $19 |
Description
The tour starts at 10 am from the local operators head office in Yerevan. You will first be taken to the Southern part of Armenia where the first stop of the trip is Khor Virap, the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia as it is directly connected with the adoption of Christianity. As a state religion Christianity in Armenia was adopted in 301 due to endeavors of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who before converting king Trdat the 3rd to Christianity, was imprisoned in the dungeon over which a church of Khor Virap monastery was built in the 17th century. From the monastery one can admire the stunning view of the Biblical Mount Ararat.
Next stop is at Birds-Cave (Areni-1) which is situated 7.5 miles (12 km) from Yeghegnadzor, on the left bank of river Areni. The cave consists of 3 halls, the large part of which still hasn’t been explored. As a result of excavation, metal knives, fruit seeds, grain residues, rope, dishes, clothing, dried grapes and plums have been found, some dating back to 4200-3500 BC. The oldest leather shoe of the world was found right here. It is more than 5500 years old. Also, in the same area, there were found world’s oldest women’s skirt (3900 BC), as well as the first winery in the world. Nowadays the mentioned winery is considered to be the ancient one and it is referred to 4th millennium BC. No one has lived inside the cave, at the meantime, wine consumption was of ritual meaning for them.
A lunch break will be in a cozy restaurant surrounded by nature. One can choose the meal between 4 offered options in the vehicle before arrival to the restaurant and pay on the spot.
The last stop is the village of Areni is in Vayots Dzor region. This sunny village is famous for its best wine assortments. Due to its specific flavor and delicate taste "Areni" wine has its respectful place among the best Armenian wines. The visit to the wine factory of the village will serve a good testimony to the above mentioned. The St. Astvatsatsin church built by skillful architect and sculpture Momik is in Areni village, too.
You will be returned to the office in Central Yerevan.
Duration: 6-7 hours
In case of unfavorable weather conditions or unexpected circumstances, for security purposes the company reserves the right to change, reduce or cancel the tour.
The price includes
Transportation by comfortable vehicles with AC Guide service (Armenian, Russian, English consecutively) Water and cookies Entrance fees Insurance of vehicle and passengers Wine tasting
The price does not include
Lunch