Noravank – Tatev – Nagorno – Karabagh

Do you want to see one of the masterpieces of Armenian architecture, feel the harmony of Christian spirit and fabulous nature? If the answer is yes make your way to Noravank.  Situated in the narrow gorge and surrounded by astounding red cliffs this monastery has become a must see destination. Though translated from Armenian Noravank means new monastery it was founded in the early 13th century and became the residence of bishops of Syunik region. The site is comprised of three surviving churches, each decorated in intricate designs and religious beliefs. In 2002 the temple was included into UNESCO World Heritage Sites List. Take the chance to listen to the nature while looking at the manmade masterpiece and bear in mind that the way to get there offers great views! You will then have the opportunity to taste wine in Areni village which is considered to be the birthplace of wine as the oldest winery in the world has been uncovered here! Your trip will be concluded in Jermuk spa town where much of the country’s mineral water comes from.

Have you ever felt how it is travelling by the longest non-stop double track cable car in the world? If not take the aerial tramway called Wings of Tatev recorded in the Guinness Book of Records for its length (5752 m). It will take you to the natural and historic treasure of Armenia through a deep and breathtaking gorge. By the ropeway you will get to Tatev monastery which is one the main outstanding tourist objectives in Armenia due to its historical significance and the beauty of the natural surroundings. Monastery is the pearl of Armenian architecture and was one of the oldest spiritual centers of medieval Armenia, as well as the biggest university of its time. Built on the edge of giant gorge in the 9th century the walls of the monastery seem a natural extension of the rock. According to a legend when the construction of the main church was completed the master prepared a cross for placing on the dome. However, after he installed the cross he did not manage to come down so he threw himself into the gorge asking God for wings which in Armenian sounds like “tal tev”. Here is how the name of the monastery originated. Remember that this place is a must see and enjoy the sensation of being above a deep gorge.

The second Armenian Republic called Nagorno- Karabakh is an unparalleled nature, dense forests, beautiful gorges, inaccessible fortresses on the tops of high mountains and stunning panoramas opening from these peaks. Your first stop will be the former capital of Nagorno-Karabagh- Shoushi. Previously it was the administrative, cultural and educational center of Artsakh (currently Nagorno-Karabagh).Though Shoushi has a very rich history the main part of it has been created not in the distant past but in our days when the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan for Karabagh liberation erupted. The heroic victory of the Armenian people in the Karabagh war which is one of the most glorious pages of the newest history of Armenia is associated with Shoushi. The smell of the war can still be felt in the air as it is the city that suffered the most because of the Karabagh conflict. Before entering the current capital of Artsak –Stepanakert you will stop to have a look at the symbol of  Artsakh-the monument “We and our mountains”, called tenderly by the inhabitants “Papik-Tatik” (the Grandfather and the Grandmother). The piece of art symbolizes Kharabakh people’s patriotism and an ineradicable dedication of the Artsakh people to life and family values. Though during the years of war Stepanakert suffered strongly nowadays there are no more sad traces of war as the city has been completely restored due to the patriotic initiations.

*Night stay is not included in the price.

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