About this experience
Armenia is an amazing country filled with the atmosphere of life in all its manifestations. Ancient monasteries preserve this atmosphere no less than modernity. By visiting one of these 'living' centers of faith - Tatev, you will be able to envision the life that once boiled within its walls and immerse yourself in the rich history of Armenia. The road to Tatev is colorful, winding through noisy rivers, mountain ranges, meadows, and unique historical sites.
What to expect
Noravank Monastery
We will depart from Yerevan in the morning and head to the Syunik region, where we will visit the medieval monastery complex of Noravank - the former residence and now the family burial place of the Orbelian princes. I will tell you about this lineage of courageous warriors and righteous clergymen who managed to maintain the region's independence, as well as about the outstanding architect Momik, who built the unique church here.
Areni Wines
If we have time, we can also visit the nearby ancient village of Areni, famous for its wines. I will take you to a wine cellar whose owners I know well, where we can taste the wine for free, and the hosts will talk about the local grape varieties and production. If you like a particular wine, you can purchase it.
Longest Cable Car
Next, we will cross the pass and 'fly' to the ancient monastery on the 'Wings of Tatev' - the longest cable car in the world, listed in the Guinness Book of Records - 5.7 km, 320 meters high. Below, there are winding serpentine roads, the natural bridge 'Devil's Bridge,' mineral springs. Upon arrival, you will be impressed by the unique nature and delighted by the colorful grandmothers selling homemade delicacies and mountain herbs. Make sure to try something from them, I never pass by empty-handed.
Tatev Monastery
And now it's time to delve into the history of the monastery and the life that has been bubbling here and filling the surrounding space since the 13th century. The monastery is one of the most famous in Armenia, chosen for construction on a cliff right above a deep abyss.
In the courtyard, there is a spring with delicious and pure water, an old pear tree under which we will meet Michael - a priest who always sits in the company of parishioners and a large number of children. This man is extremely kind, paying attention to everyone who comes to him. Michael will tell many stories about monastic life, the university that once existed here, and his students.
After meeting Michael, we will explore the monastery buildings. Here are the largest Matenadaran (repository of manuscripts), stables, classrooms where monks and students studied. The kitchen, dining hall, bakery, and the cells of the priests with a wonderful view of the gorge are preserved.
But the main treasure of Tatev is still its 3 most beautiful medieval churches. The work of the masters will make you wonder how from stubborn stone, they could create unique ornaments and build sturdy majestic temples. The masters from 'stony' Armenia created a masterpiece of indestructible culture and architecture.
I will tell you about how the monks lived here, about the daily life and culture of the monastery, about Christianity and its preachers. Everywhere you will find discoveries, secret passages, and unusual medieval constructions...
The Tatev Monastery will leave an unforgettable impression and a bright mark in the heart of everyone who has been there. For a long time, in your memories, you will hear the church singing of little girls and see the gentle gaze of the priest Michael.
Organizational Details
- I propose a second, extended option for the Tatev tour with an overnight stay in the city of Goris (as the road is not easy and going there and back in one day is very exhausting for both guests and the driver). Without haste, we will visit the Hor Virap Monastery at the foot of Mount Ararat, where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned, the fertile Ararat Valley, the wine cellar in the village of Areni, and the nearby cave where ancient artifacts were discovered (the world's oldest leather shoe, 4th century BC, burials, ancient winery), Noravank, and Tatev. After spending the night in Goris, we will visit the cave city of Khndzoresk (depending on the weather), walk across the suspension bridge, explore the caves, and on the way back, stop to admire the Shaki waterfall.
- The price for this tour is 330 euros
- Accommodation in Goris should be booked in advance, I will help with recommendations - on average, a night for two costs 20,000 drams)
