In the Footsteps of Aragats History

This route runs through the scenic landscapes of the Aragatsotn region and brings together different pages of Armenian history — medieval monasteries and fortresses, the scientific heritage of the 20th century and the traditions of Armenian winemaking.

The first stop is Tegher Monastery, set on the southern slopes of Mount Aragats.

The monastic complex dates back to the early 13th century. The main church, Surb Astvatsatsin, was built in 1213, and the narthex was completed in 1221. The complex is linked to the princely Vachutian family and is one of the interesting examples of Armenian medieval architecture.

Tegher owes its special atmosphere to its location among open mountain spaces with beautiful views over the surroundings.

The next stop is one of the most unusual structures in Armenia: the Herouni radio-optical telescope ROT-54/2.6.

The scientific complex was created under the guidance of the renowned Armenian scientist and radiophysicist Paris Herouni. It was built between 1975 and 1985.

The main part of the complex is an enormous spherical radio antenna 54 metres in diameter, combined with an optical telescope whose mirror measures 2.6 metres across.

This place is very different from Armenia's usual tourist attractions. A large-scale engineering structure set among the mountains opens up yet another page of the country's history — the history of Armenian science and engineering thought in the 20th century.

Next we head to one of Armenia's best-known mountain fortresses — Amberd.

The fortress stands at around 2,300 metres above sea level, on a rocky promontory between deep gorges.

The main part of the fortress dates to the 10th century, although the history of fortifications on this site begins considerably earlier. In the Middle Ages Amberd was an important military and defensive centre.

The fortress walls, the remains of the castle and of a medieval bathhouse have survived on the site, and the 11th-century Vahramashen Church stands nearby.

Because of its position, Amberd is often called "the fortress in the clouds". It offers impressive views over the slopes of Aragats and the surrounding gorges.

The journey ends with an introduction to another important part of Armenian culture — winemaking.

We will visit the Voskevaz winery, where a tour of the winery and a tasting await us.

During the wine tour you will learn about the winemaking process, find out more about Armenian winemaking traditions and be able to taste local wines.

After a full day among monasteries, mountains, history and unusual engineering structures, the tasting in Voskevaz makes a beautiful and relaxed end to the route.

The route suits those who have already seen Armenia's classic sights or want to discover the country from a completely different side.

In a single day you will see the medieval Tegher Monastery and the unusual Herouni scientific complex, climb up to the mountain fortress of Amberd and get to know the culture of Armenian winemaking in Voskevaz.

This tour is especially interesting for lovers of history, architecture, unusual places, mountain landscapes and Armenian wine.