Garni and Geghard Tour in surroundings of Yerevan to the most unusual monuments of Armenia. In one eventful day you will see ancient complex of Garni that does in no ways resemble Armenian architecture but is closely related to Roman Empire traditions. Also you will visit wonderful temple of Geghard that is famous for its stone facing and bas-reliefs. So Garni and Geghard tour in only few hours will take you back to 2000 years.
Tour itinerary:
Yerevan – Garni – Geghard – Khor-Virap – Yerevan
The day trip to Garni and Geghard starts after breakfast from your hotel in Yerevan. The first milestone is Garni. Garni is one of the major villages in Armenia. It is famous for the fortress of Garni. The fortress is the only pagan sacred place from the 1st century that survived the aggressive introduction of Christianity in the 4th century. It was dedicated to Mihr, the God of the sun. This is the only Greco-Roman style temple with 24 ionic columns as in Armenia, so on the territory of the former USSR. A disastrous 1679 earthquake destroyed the temple. It was reconstructed in the 20th century.
The monastery complex Geghard (which means a spear in Armenian) is an outstanding medieval architecture that reached us remarkably well-preserved. The beautiful landscape of Geghard is framed by towering cliffs. Decorative art cut into rocks reflects and explains Medieval Ages development throughout the region. The complex was introduced to history in the 4th century as a sacred spring inside a cave. Today it is included in the UNESCO list as a World Heritage Site. Head to Khor Virap Monastery (“deep pit”). According to the legend, St. Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, was kept here in the basement for 13 years for the disseminating of Christianity until King Tiridates decided to adopt the new religion. The monastery's location allows you to enjoy the best views of Mt. Ararat. Depart back to Yerevan. Return to Yerevan. Drop off at your hotel.
Duration: 6-7 hours
Price includes:
- Transportation;
- Service of guide;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- Mineral water.
Price doesn't include:
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated.
Prices, per person
Prices are in US$ per person, discounted prices for larger groups are available on request.
Tour Enquiry
The tour is private with your personal guide. There will be no other people joining the tour.
Our guides will follow your own pace.
The starting time of the tour is up to you and may vary from 09.00 am to 16.00 pm.
We are happy to offer this tour for air/train passengers too. Our guide will meet you at the arrival station.
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