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Private tour: Saghmosavank, Hovhannavank, Etchmiadzin Cathedral and Museum, Zvartnots

Itinerary

Saghmosavank Monastery, Hovhannavank Monastery, Etchmiadzin Mother Cathedral, Treasures of Etchmiadzin Museum, Zvartnots Temple

1. Saghmosavank Monastery

30-40 min Details: Saghmosavank Monastery
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On the edge of the scenic Kasakh Gorge, just north of Mughni, rises Saghmosavank, the Monastery of Psalms, a name that itself sounds like a prayer. Founded in the 12th-13th centuries by the noble Vachutyan family, it became not only a spiritual haven but also a sanctuary where priceless manuscripts were copied and preserved. The complex is composed of four structures: the grand main Church of Saint Zion, a narthex, a spacious library and the modest Chapel of the Holy Mother of God. Perched above the abyss of the gorge, Saghmosavank's stone walls have witnessed the passage of centuries, holding within them the strength of countless prayers and the quiet rhythm of nature's voice.

2. Hovhannavank Monastery

30-40 min Details: Hovhannavank Monastery
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On the slopes of the picturesque Aragatsotn region, in the village of Ohanavan, Hovhannavank monastery rises – an ancient sanctuary whose story reaches deep into the past. According to tradition, the first structures appeared here as early as the 5th century, when the Christian faith in Armenia was only beginning to take shape in stone. Through the centuries, the monastery was rebuilt many times, preserving within its walls the memory of different eras and patrons.

3. Etchmiadzin Mother Cathedral

50-60 min Details: Etchmiadzin Mother Cathedral
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On the silent expanse of an ancient plain, beneath the watchful gaze of the mountains, rises the Mother See of Etchmiadzin – a sanctuary where, legend says, heaven once touched the earth. According to tradition, Saint Gregory the Illuminator saw Christ in a vision, holding a golden hammer, striking the ground to reveal the place where a cathedral must be built. Thus was born Etchmiadzin – "The Only Begotten Descended" – destined to become the spiritual heart of Armenia.

4. Treasures of Etchmiadzin Museum

20-30 min Details: Treasures of Etchmiadzin Museum
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In the southeastern wing of the ancient Etchmiadzin Cathedral lies one of the most sacred places of Armenian spirituality – the "Treasures of Etchmiadzin" museum. It is more than a collection of relics; it is a sanctuary of memory where centuries-old faith and legend take on tangible form.

5. Zvartnots Temple

30-40 min Details: Zvartnots Temple
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Amid the plains of Armavir, with the majestic Mount Ararat rising in the distance, once stood Zvartnots – a 7th-century masterpiece that embodied the bold vision and brilliance of Armenian architects. Built upon towering columns, it astonished the world with its intricate design and grandeur that seemed centuries ahead of its time. For more than three hundred years, Zvartnots stood as a marvel, until an earthquake in the 10th century reduced it to silent ruins, leaving behind the enigma of a vanished wonder.

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

  • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

What to expect

  • Admire Saghmosavank and Hovhannavank above the impressive Kasakh Gorge
  • Continue to Etchmiadzin, the sacred center of Armenian Christianity
  • Visit the Mother Cathedral and see treasured relics connected with Armenian spiritual heritage
  • End at Zvartnots, where 7th-century architecture still feels majestic in ruins

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Khachatur Mirzoyan

Khachatur Mirzoyan

HY EN

My name is Khachatur, which is the Armenian variation of Chris (Christopher), and I'm comfortable with that as well. I have been working as a tour guide since 2012. I'm a sociable person, love interacting with people, and always do my best to make sure the tour lives up to our guests' expectations.

Marina Mirumyan

Marina Mirumyan

RU HY EN

Hi, my name is Marina Mirumyan, and I am a tour guide at "Hyur Service" company. Haven't traveled to Armenia yet? Then plan a visit and be our guest! Join my tours with "Hyur Service" to discover the endless hospitality of our people, the breathtaking views of our mountainous country, the ancient culture, traditions, delicious cuisine, and much more! Travel with "Hyur Service" to create lasting memories!

Tamara Arakelyan

Tamara Arakelyan

HY EN

I am Tamara. I live in Armenia and through Armenia. If you want to feel the taste, scent, and colors of Armenia and fall in love with our country, then let's go on a tour together. Just like all my guests, I'm sure you too will want to come back again.

Syuzanna Poghosyan

Syuzanna Poghosyan

RU HY

My name is Syuzanna, and since 2016 I have been introducing guests to the wonderful Armenia with great love. For me, every tour is not just a story about the country but an opportunity to show its soul, to help you feel its history, culture, and hospitality. I am sincerely happy when I see how Armenia captures hearts, and I will do everything to make your journey warm, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

Reviews

Василий

Russia Russia

23.10.2024

Ездили на экскурсию в Эчмиадзинский собор в сопровождении экскурсовода Ани и водителя Карена. Ани очень интересно рассказывает и потрясающе много знает, информации дает много, подробно отвечает на вопросы. Но при этом эксурсия получилась легкой и не было ощущения усталости. Ну и просто Ани очень приятный в общении человек. Также хочу отметить водителя Карена - вождение аккуратное, машина чистая, есть вода. Нам очень понравилось, обязательно еще воспользуемся услугами Йур сервис, и замечательных Ани и Карена

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