Armenia or Hayastan in Armenian language - Europe's legendary landscape! It was in Armenia where the Garden of Eden was located according to the Holy Scriptures. It is the First Christian country in the world with more than 7,000 years of history. It is also considered to be the place where Biblical Noah had settled. Per Bible, Noah's Ark landed on Ararat mountains - after the biblical Great Flood.
Armenia is a landlocked mountainous country in the Southern Caucasus, bordered by Georgia to the north, Turkey to the west, Azerbaijan to the east and Iran and the Nakhchivan exclave of Azerbaijan to the south. The country is located between the Black and the Caspian Sea in the Caucasus Mountains.
The capital of the country is Yerevan. The only official language is Armenian, which, by the way, is considered one of the most unique languages in the world. However, if you plan to visit Armenia, the vast majority of Armenian people speak Russian (due to Armenia formerly being part of the Soviet Union) and English (particularly in the capital). Armenia is one of the most homogeneous countries in the world.
Among Armenia's premier tourist attractions are countless monasteries. Many of these ancient buildings were built in places of unbelievable and incredible natural beauty - Noravank, Haghpat, Tatev, Geghard. Armenia is enticing to all avid travelers with its exotic beauty and fascinating landscapes, mountains and rich culture and traditions.
Armenia, Beauty of the Land
Yerevan
In Yerevan, you can visit the famous carpet factory and get acquainted with the difficult and interesting technique of making carpets and rugs. You can see Matenadatan - unique Research Institute and Museum of Ancient Manuscripts. Don't forget to visit popular "Ararat" Cognac factory! You could learn the history of cognac-making in Armenia, while savoring a few sips of this authentic, traditional drink. Also, go to Vernissage - a huge market with touristy stuff, where you can find anything you want: from the Middle ages to the Soviet era.
Visit Sergei Parajanov house-museum. Parajanov is an exceptional Armenian film director, who is well-known around the world. In his museum you will find Parajanov's fabulous drawings, paintings, dolls, graphics, screenplays and librettos of cinema, theater, ballet, etc.
Sevan
Not far from Yerevan, there is a beautiful Lake Sevan, surrounded by ancient mountains and churches. It has white-sand beaches. The yachts cross the lake to the beaches of picturesque settlements of Artanish and Jil. It is the place for windsurfing fans! Near the lake you can rent a cottage or stay in a hotel and enjoy turquoise water and unforgettable landscape.
Echmiadzin
Echmiadzin is the largest city in Central Armenia. It is the heart of the Armenian church. Visit Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral - the oldest church in the world. It was built by Saint Gregory the Illuminator in 301-303, when Armenia was the only country in the world, the state religion of which was Christianity. The Echmiadzin Cathedral is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You can aslo see Saint Hripsime church. This is the 7th century Cathedral! It is an outstanding example of earlier Christian architecture. Also, go to Saint Gayane Church, which was built by Catholicos Ezra in 630. It was built in honor of one of the Christian virgins killed by Armenian king. The design of the Church of Saint Gayane remains unchanged despite subsequent renovations.
The Khor Virap Monastery
The Khor Virap (in Armenian, meaning deep dungeon) monastery is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is located in the Ararat plain, very close to the border with Turkey. It's the closest point in Armenia to Mount Ararat, the national symbol of Armenia. The Khor Virap Monastery is significant as a place where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned in dungeon for 13 years - before healing Armenian king Trdat III of a disease. After releasing Saint Gregory, the king was converted by him to Christianity in 301 AD, making Armenia the first country, which adopted Christianity as its state religion.
Jermuk
The lovely spa town of Jermuk. It is known for its thermal mineral springs at a height of 2080 meters above the sea level. The spa offers treatment of the following diseases: gastritis, cholecystitis, pancreatic, metabolic imbalance (alimentary obesity), skin diseases, oral cavity diseases proctological and urological diseases, gynecological illnesses, radiculitis and many others. Also visit Tsolk Waterfall in Jermuk, the mineral drinking Gallery and the beautiful Park of Statues.
Begin your Trip to Armenia with Yerevan
The best starting point for getting to major tourist sites in Armenia is Yerevan. The price of sight seeing tour starts at $6.
Visitors from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) do not need a visa for up to 90 days. Tourists from other countries must apply for a visa. Citizens of the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia and EU countries can buy a visa when they enter Armenia. A 120 day visa costs 15,000 dram (Armenian currency) - about $40 or 30 Euro. You have to pay the visa in Dram and can not pay in USD. Before customs and immigration at the Yerevan airport there is an exchange currency kiosk for convenience.
Next time you are planning a trip take a long look at Armenia. Let its ancient culture, virgin beauty, welcoming people and delicious cuisine enrich your cultural experiences.
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