From Paganism to Christianity

The journey begins at Khor Virap — one of Armenia's most famous monasteries and a place tied to the most important page in the country's history.

According to tradition, it was here that Gregory the Illuminator spent 13 years in a deep pit-prison for his Christian faith. After his release, he played a key role in the conversion of King Trdat III and Armenia's adoption of Christianity in the early 4th century. Today you can see the historic pit and, if you wish, climb down inside it.

Khor Virap is also famous for its location: on a clear day it offers one of the most striking views of Mount Ararat and the Ararat Valley.

Next we head to the Azat Reservoir. Amid mountains and open landscapes, we'll make a stop for a walk, some rest and beautiful photos.

The next point is Garni Temple, where we seem to step back into another era of Armenia.

The temple dates to the 1st century AD and is traditionally linked to the Armenian king Trdat I. It is the only surviving Greco-Roman-style colonnaded structure in Armenia and one of the main monuments of the country's pre-Christian period.

After Garni we descend into the Azat River gorge to the Symphony of Stones. Enormous basalt columns of remarkably regular shape formed naturally. It is this unusual geometry of the rocks that gave the place its musical name.

The next stop is Geghard Monastery, and here the route's story returns once again to Christian Armenia.

According to tradition, the monastery was founded in the early 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator. The main architectural ensemble seen today was formed mostly in the 13th century. Geghard's distinguishing feature is its churches, tombs and monastic chambers carved directly into the rock.

Geghard Monastery and the Upper Azat Valley are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

We'll end the journey with an introduction to one of Armenia's most famous traditions — making lavash. You'll see how Armenian lavash is baked the traditional way in a tonir, and get to try the fresh treat.

Who this tour suits

This route is especially interesting for those who want not just to see beautiful places, but to understand Armenia's history across different eras.

In a single day you'll see the country's pre-Christian heritage, learn the story of the adoption of Christianity, visit an ancient temple and a medieval rock-hewn monastery, see Ararat and the natural Symphony of Stones, and finish by getting to know the tradition of making Armenian lavash.

The tour suits a first introduction to Armenia, lovers of history and architecture, family trips, and anyone who wants a packed program without too long a trip.