Private tour: Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Garni Canyon Symphony of stones
Arch of Charents, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Garni Canyon Symphony of stones
1. Arch of Charents
15-20 min
The monument "Arch of Charents" was created by architect Raphael Israelyan. One day on his way to Garni he stopped at this place and, noticing that a picturesque view opens from there to the Mount Ararat, he decided to build an arch as a "temple" to Ararat. The Arch was constructed in 1957, on occasion of the 60th anniversary of the great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents. It is said, that the poet was also fond of walking around this place. It is like a picture frame, from where a mesmerizing view opens to the Ararat valley with Masis floating in distance. The following words completing Charents' famous poem are carved on the front aperture along the arch:
You can make here stunning pictures against the backdrop of the Arch and Mountain Ararat, only the weather should be clear.
"There is no summit as snow-white as that of lofty Ararat;
Like an inaccessible path to glory, I love my Mount Masis!"
You can make here stunning pictures against the backdrop of the Arch and Mountain Ararat, only the weather should be clear.
2. Garni Temple
60-70 min
Garni temple, which towers over a triangular cape, is the unique survived example of heathen culture in Armenia. It is a blend of Greco-Roman and Armenian styles. King Trdat The First ordered building the temple in the first century AD and dedicated it to the God of Sun. After adopting Christianity in 301, the pagan temple lost its significance and the fortress of Garni became the summer residence of the kings. Nowadays the ruins of the royal palace and the bathroom with a stunning mosaic work can be found near the temple.
3. Geghard Monastery
60-70 min
Geghard monastery is the unsurpassable masterpiece of the 13th century Armenian architecture. Some of the churches of the complex are masterfully hewn in a huge rock. From the outset the complex was called Ayrivank (cave monastery), later it was renamed Geghard (lance) as the lance, used by the roman soldier to sting Jesus Christ's side, had been kept in this monastery for many centuries. Due to its construction, Geghardavank serves the best place for singing spiritual songs. The complex is rich in subtle sculptural embellishments and many striking khachkars (cross-stones). The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
4. Garni Canyon Symphony of stones
30-35 min
In Garni canyon one can explore stunning geological monuments, represented by columnar basalts, which are the result of lava flows. Basalt masses are broken into polyhedral columns, which, due to their regularity of form, have gained the name "Basaltic Organ".
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
- Wonder at the views of Biblical Mount Ararat from Charents arch
- Explore the 1st century pagan temple
- Discover the legends of St. Lance used by the roman soldier to sting Jesus Christ's side
- Explore stunning geological monuments, named "Basaltic Organ"
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
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