In the Footsteps of Ancient Wine

The journey begins at Khor Virap — one of Armenia's most famous monasteries and one of the best vantage points for views of Mount Ararat.

The name Khor Virap translates as "deep dungeon". According to Armenian Christian tradition, it was here that Gregory the Illuminator spent 13 years in captivity. After his release, he played a key role in Armenia's adoption of Christianity in the early 4th century. The monastery itself developed later, with one of its earliest churches dating back to the 7th century.

From Khor Virap we head south to Vayots Dzor — one of Armenia's main wine-growing regions.

Our next stop is Areni, a village whose name today is inseparable from Armenian wine. Here a wine tour and tasting await us: an introduction to local grape varieties, winemaking traditions and, of course, Armenian wines.

The history of wine in this region spans thousands of years, and the next point on the route lets you touch that history quite literally.

We will visit the Bird Cave — the Areni-1 archaeological complex.

It was here that archaeologists discovered an ancient winery about 6,100 years old, considered one of the oldest known pieces of evidence of organized winemaking. Areni-1 is also where the famous ancient leather shoe was found.

What makes this site especially fascinating is that the winemaking history of Vayots Dzor stops being just a story here — the archaeological finds show just how ancient these traditions really are.

We will end the journey at Noravank Monastery, set among the tall red cliffs of Vayots Dzor.

The main monastic ensemble dates to the 13th century. Noravank was one of the important spiritual, cultural and educational centers of medieval Armenia and is closely linked to the princely Orbelian family.

A special place in Noravank's history belongs to Momik — an outstanding medieval architect, sculptor and master of khachkars. The monastery's architecture, its fine stone carving and the surrounding red canyon make Noravank one of the most memorable sights of southern Armenia.

This route suits those who want to experience Armenia through history, wine, archaeology and medieval architecture.

In a single day you will see Ararat from Khor Virap, get acquainted with Areni's winemaking traditions, visit the archaeological Bird Cave, and finish the journey amid the red cliffs of medieval Noravank.

An especially interesting route for lovers of history, wine, archaeology, beautiful natural landscapes and Armenian culture.