Armenia is indeed worth visiting. That being said, it is one of the most rewarding lands on this earth to tour. Although Armenia is not a big country, it has a plethora to offer. The hilly and mountainous landscapes, the winding roads, the rich cultural history, and the welcoming people in Armenia are what you will get if you visit it.
Home to the world’s ancient churches and monasteries, Armenia showcases the beauty of the landscape in a bewitching way. We have brought you some of the most well-known and popularly visited ancient sites in Armenia, which you should add to your list. Make sure to get the best out of it.
Noravank Monastery
Noravank Monastery is among the most popular ancient sites in Armenia. It was built back in the 13th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Noravank Monastery is known for its steep brick-red hills directly across from the monastery. All of the monuments in Armenia are mostly built in areas surrounding nature.
In Armenian traditions, Khachkar is of utmost significance. They are carved memorial stones but have special motifs like interlaces, and rosettes with the cross. You will find several Khachkhars here. To have a close look at the dome, you can go up to the second floor.
Etchmiadzin Cathedral
Etchmiadzin Cathedral is one of the most famous sites in Armenia. It is located in Vagharshapat, relatively close to Yerevan. One of the most visited places in the country, this is the main pilgrimage site for people here. Acclaimed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Etchmiadzin Cathedral is among the oldest cathedrals in the world.
Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion. The cathedral dates back to the 4th century at the site of a pagan temple to symbolize the adoption of Christianity. Etchmiadzin Cathedral has stood high in the test of time and faced many destructive events. However, none of them ever lost the significance and shine of the cathedral for Armenians.
Amberd Fortress
An imperial summer house or a guarding fortress or both, the Amberd Fortress dates back to the 10th century. It was built from solid basalt blocks and stood tall and strong even after ages. It was a fully defensive fortress of its time, having a complete system of water supply, accommodation, and baths.
The ruins of Amberd Fortress are of huge significance. It is simply because they have seen many emperors and kings, and faced many opponents. The fortress was captured by Sejuk Turks, later liberated by General Zakare Zakarian, Destroyed by Mongols, and later abandoned. Now it is among the most popular tourist destinations and archaeological sites in Armenia.
Temple of Garni
The Temple of Garni is another great site you should not miss when you are in Armenia. Lying in the heart of the village of Garni, it is among the oldest historical monuments in the country. It was completed in 77 AD and is the only remaining memory of pre-Christian times. The Temple of Garni has a classic design and is a sign of the cultural history of Armenia.
It was built on an elevated site and has magnificent architecture. The design is an amalgam of Greco-Roman architecture. To learn more about this rare portion of human history, you have to come and check it out. Listen to the grand stories the Temple of Garni has to tell you.
Tatev Monastery
Tatev Monastery is an Armenian Apostolic Monastery. It dates back to the 9th century. In the heart of Syunik province, near Tatev village, the monastery is located. Tatev monastery has its fair share in the spiritual and scholastic history of Armenia. Captured, destroyed, taken back, survived, rebuilt, and renovated, the Tatev Monastery passed the test of hard times.
So make sure to add Tatev Monastery to your list when you are traveling to Armenia. You will find many churches and monasteries here. The land of Armenia has a rich history and is one of the most wanted countries for archaeologists and photographers. So, if you are any of them, this sure is for you.
Cascade Complex Yerevan
Lying in the heart of Yerevan, the Cascade Complex is a giant limestone stairway. What makes these stairs so cool and classy is that they are decorated with modern sculptures. Just like a Babylon garden, the fountains, flowers, and plants make an impressive sight. It is not that ancient, as its construction started in 1971, however, it is a great site to have a bird’s eye view of the town.
You can’t call it a monument, or a landmark, but rather an urban modern decoration. Climb the cascade and see the city’s monuments of Soviet victory in WWII. The views at the top are breathtaking. This reason makes it one of the best tourist sites in Yerevan, Armenia.
