About this experience
You will follow the entire path of Armenian Christian tradition from its very cradle to its flourishing and modernity, visiting the center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the ruins of one of the grandest temples, and the fortress city on a volcanic hill where the ancestors of the first Armenian Christians lived. You will not only enjoy the beauty of architecture and the aura of the past but also the nature of my homeland Armenia with views of the Ararat Valley.
What to Expect
History of Christianity from its origins
This excursion is not just a tour of numerous temples and churches, of which there are unimaginably many in the country, but a real journey to the places of Christian heritage that is over 1700 years old. You will literally feel the breath of the past, being in the shadow of sacred shrines and walls of ancient cities, learn how the religion took root in Armenia, and see how the Christian past contributed to making the city of Vagarshapat (Etchmiadzin) one of the main cultural centers of Armenia.
Temple of the Vigilant Angels - Zvartnots
You will visit the ruins of the ancient temple Zvartnots, which today houses an archaeological museum-reserve. Several centuries ago, an earthquake destroyed the temple - a monumental three-tier structure, but even today, it amazes with its power and airiness. You will understand how grand Zvartnots was once you set your eyes on its partially reconstructed architectural frame.
Etchmiadzin - the cradle of Christianity
The city of Etchmiadzin is the residence of the Armenian Patriarch, the Catholicos of All Armenians, and the center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. You will learn why Armenians believe that Etchmiadzin is a place blessed by God and how it is related to its name, visit the Museum of Christianity, and take a stroll in the park on the territory of the cathedral. You will see ancient temples dedicated to the first Christian martyrs, the building of the 19th-century seminary, now housing the Art Museum, and observe the new, modern Etchmiadzin, living a fully cultural life of a rich city.
❗ The Etchmiadzin Cathedral is undergoing restoration; only external examination is included in the program.
Fortress City of Metsamor
Our journey will touch upon the period of ancient history - you will visit the city of Metsamor, a unique monument of world culture. Here is one of the first metal smelters that have survived to this day. You will see well-preserved smelting furnaces and cauldrons where our ancestors smelted copper, bronze, and iron, as well as the oldest observatory and get acquainted with the discoveries of Metsamorians captured in rock paintings.
Organizational Details
- Departure from the center of Yerevan, transfer from/to the hotel possible (to be discussed)
- Separate payment for: entrance tickets to museums, lunch (optional)
