A Journey Through Time: Armenia’s Historic Wine Route

The morning starts by heading to the Southern part of Armenia. From Yerevan we move towards Khor Virap Monastery (in Armenian stands for “deep dungeon”). Khor Virap's notability as a monastery and pilgrimage site is attributed to the fact that Gregory the Illuminator was initially imprisoned here for about 14 years by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Saint Gregory subsequently became the king's religious mentor, and they led the proselytizing activity in the country. In the year 301 Armenia was the first country in the world to be declared a Christian nation.

The walled religious complex also stands before the snowcapped flanks of Mount Ararat, offering a spectacular view of the mountain and cutting a striking silhouette in and of itself.

Our next highlight is Areni-1 cave complex - multicomponent site, and late Chalcolithic / Early Bronze Age ritual settlement, located near the Areni village. In 2010, archeologists discovered the earliest known shoe (5500 years old) at the site. In January 2011 the earliest known winery (about 6100 years old) in the world was uncovered in the cave. Later, in 2011 the discovery of a straw skirt dating to 3,900 years BC was reported. In 2009, the oldest humanoid brain was discovered in the cave.

Then we will continue our tour to Armenian architectural masterpiece Noravank Monastic Complex. Noravank means “New Monastery” in Armenian. However, today this name does not fit, as the monastery is already more than seven centuries old. The beautiful Noravank Monastery was built in the 13th century.

The monastery complex is located on a steep mountain ledge, near the cliff. The territory is “framed” by unusual cliffs of bright red color, which create a very picturesque background for the buildings. Noravank monastery is one of the most visited attractions in Armenia.

Lunch will be at ”Old Bridge” Winery accompanied by tasting of delicious Armenian wines.
Back to Yerevan.