Guardians of Armenian History

The journey begins at Hovhannavank Monastery, perched right above the deep gorge of the Kasagh River.

The history of this place goes back to the first centuries of Christian Armenia. According to tradition, the first church here was founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator. The complex's main church, the Church of St. Karapet, was built in 1216–1221.

Hovhannavank is remarkable not only for its history and medieval architecture. The monastery grounds offer a stunning view of the Kasagh Gorge, which makes the place especially beautiful at any time of year.

Next we head to Saghmosavank — another famous monastery of the Aragatsotn region, standing right on the edge of the Kasagh Gorge.

The complex's main church, the Church of St. Sion, was built in 1215 by Prince Vache Vachutyan. In the 13th century the monastery grew into an important spiritual and cultural center. It housed a book depository built in 1255, where manuscripts and church valuables were kept.

After the medieval monasteries, we will head to the Monument to the Armenian Alphabet.

The Armenian alphabet was created by Mesrop Mashtots in 405. It originally consisted of 36 letters, with three more added later.

The monument itself was erected in 2005, marking the 1600th anniversary of the creation of Armenian writing. Set against the backdrop of Mount Aragats are huge stone letters of the Armenian alphabet and sculptures related to Mesrop Mashtots and the history of Armenian script.

We will conclude the journey at the foot of Mount Aragats — at Amberd Fortress.

Amberd sits at an altitude of about 2,300 meters above sea level, between the gorges of the Amberd and Arkashen rivers. The first fortifications here date to the early Middle Ages, while the fortress's main development took place in the 10th–13th centuries.

In the 10th century, Amberd became an important military-defensive center of Armenian princely domains. The fortress repeatedly changed hands, enduring attacks and destruction. In 1196 it was liberated by Armenian-Georgian forces, and in the 13th century it was destroyed again during the Mongol invasion.

Today the fortress walls, parts of the castle, a medieval bathhouse and the Vahramashen Church have survived here. And its location high on the slopes of Aragats makes Amberd not only a historical site but also one of the most beautiful panoramic points on the route.

This route suits those who want to get to know Armenia through its monasteries, its writing, medieval architecture and fortresses.

In a single day you will see two monasteries above the Kasagh Gorge, learn the history of the creation of the Armenian alphabet, and climb up to one of the country's most famous medieval fortresses — Amberd.

An especially interesting route for lovers of history, architecture, mountain scenery and beautiful places away from the most crowded tourist destinations.