Yerevan – Khor Virap – Areni – Noravank – Tatev Monastery – Yerevan

Excursion starts from Khor Virap monastery complex, located in Ararat region. The Virap was a deep hole full of snakes, poisonous insects, where the prisoner was thrown. Gregory the Illuminator was kept there for the preaching of Christianity. After the adoption of Christianity, it became a pilgrimage site, and in the 17th century a chapel was built.

Then you will visit Areni village. It is best known for its wine production. In January 2007 archaeologists announced the discovery of the earliest known winery, the Areni-1 winery, seven months after the world's oldest leather shoe, the Areni-1 shoe, was discovered in the same cave. The winery, which is over six-thousand years old, contains a wine press, fermentation vats, jars, and cups. Archaeologists also found grape seeds and vines of the species Vitis vinifera.

In the Vayots Dzor you will visit one of the unique churches of Armenia - Noravank. The monastery complex was built in 13th -14th centuries. In the second half of 13th century the architect Siranes acted and, in the first half of 14th century, prominent miniaturist, sculptor and architect Momik. The rich surrounding nature makes the look of the church even more breathtaking.

“The Wings of Tatev” ropeway is an air route to Syunik's natural and historical riches. It is the shortest road leading to the Tatev Monastery and the longest reversible ropeway in the world (5752m) recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. At the other end of the ropeway you will have a beautiful view. In the middle of the high mountains and deep gorge lies one of the most famous Armenian monastic complex - Tatev. Tatev Monastery is a historical monument of the 9th century, an exceptional example of Armenian architecture, one of the oldest spiritual centers, as well as the largest university in medieval Armenia.