Aruch Cathedral, Marmashen Monastery, Gyumri, Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum, Harichavank Monastery
5% discount till May 1
Aruch Cathedral, Marmashen Monastery, Gyumri, Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum, Harichavank Monastery
1. Aruch Cathedral
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About 40 km far from Yerevan there is the village of Aruch, where you can find one of the biggest churches in Armenia – St. Gregory cathedral, built in the 7th century. The cupola of the church was destroyed and now the piece of the sky, seen from the circular, opening of the cupola place, is like an uninterrupted continuation of the frescoes, once masterly painted on the walls of the church. Near the church there are the ruins of a palace, built at the same time with the church, and in the outskirts of the village there are the remainders of a castle and a caravanserai, built later in the 13-14th centuries.
2. Marmashen Monastery
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On the picturesque bank of Akhuryan river there is the magnificent monastery Marmashen, built by duke Vahram Pahlavuni. It is a huge complex, the construction of which started in 986 and finished in 1029. The main church is a domed hall. The facades of the church are elaborated with triangular niches, which endow the edifice with special liveliness. The survived eastern and northern walls of the second church, which is adjacent to the main church, prove that both with its composition and architectural details it is the smaller duplication of the main church. This complex, built with well-hewn red tufa on the background of the blue sky, casts an enigmatic impression.
3. Gyumri
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Gyumri is located in the north-western part of Armenia, in the middle of Shirak valley, 126 km far from Yerevan. From the ethnical point of view, it is the most colorful city in Armenia. The local traditions are deeply rooted here, national spirit is reflected in everything. Walking along the streets of old Gyumri one still seems to hear the voice of the smiths' hammers, it seems that a cart will appear from the street corner and the carter will call to show around the city. The old houses, a part of which, fortunately, resisted the devastating earthquake in 1988, speak of the high architectural achievements of the city. These buildings are notable with their architectural solutions, combination of colorful stone and masterfully elaborated bas-reliefs. Gyumri has always been in the center of cultural events.
4. Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum
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It is the museum of urban life and national culture of Gyumri, where the everyday life, culture and history of Gyumri are presented. This remarkable mansion was built by wealthy merchant Petros Dzitoghtsyan in 1872 from the famous red tuff of Shirak. The museum was founded in 1984 in this very building. It is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of Gyumri.
5. Harichavank Monastery
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The monastery complex of Harichavank is situated on the western slope of Mount Aragats, on a rocky cape. According to the architects' studies, the complex was founded in the 7th century. In the 13th century the main church was built. In the 19th century the complex became the summer residence of Catholicoses. Not far from the main buildings there is a small chapel which is of great interest. It is built on a piece of rock, which, as a result of an earthquake, split from the cape and the chapel is now towering over the canyon.
Inclusions
- Professional drivers
- Air-conditioned vehicles
- Bottled water
- Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
- Vehicle & passengers insurance
- Extra stops on the route upon request
Exclusions
- Significant deviations from the route
- Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
- Audio guides
- WiFi in the vehicles
What to expect
- Experience 7th century medieval stories
- Admire the beauty and grandeur of 11th century architecture
- Take a walk in the old streets of Gyumri, where the famous Armenian films were shot
- Observe the summer residence of 19th century Armenian Catholicos
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
