Private tour: Echmiadzin Cathedral, St. Hripsime, St. Gayane, Gata making, Voskeni wine factory

Itinerary

Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral, St. Hripsime Church, St. Gayane Church, Gata making master class, Voskeni wine factory

1. 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.

2. St. Hripsime Church

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Before the gates of ancient Etchmiadzin, on a sunlit hill, rises the Church of Saint Hripsime – a stone testament to a love for God stronger than fear or death. Legend speaks of the beautiful Hripsime, whose heart belonged not to earthly passions but to her faith. King Tiridates III, captivated by her beauty, offered her his hand and throne. Hripsime refused, choosing instead the path of devotion to Christ. Enraged, the king ordered her to be tortured and executed and the ground that drank her blood became sacred.

3. St. Gayane Church

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Among the sacred landmarks of Etchmiadzin, the Church of Saint Gayane stands out as a quiet guardian of the memory of the first Christian martyrs. Rising just south of the Mother Cathedral, it marks the place where, according to tradition, the blood of Gayane, the mentor of Saint Hripsime, was shed in her ultimate testimony of faith.

Gata Making Masterclass

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Gata is one of the most beloved and recognizable sweets of Armenian cuisine, holding a special place on festive tables for centuries. It can be baked in a traditional tonir or in an oven and its unique aroma and taste have made this dessert a true symbol of home comfort. Shaped like a pie, gata stands out for its filling known as "khoris": a delicate mixture of flour, butter, sugar and vanilla that gives it a crumbly, tender texture. Some recipes also include nuts, enriching the flavor and adding more depth.

4. Voskeni wine factory

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The history of this winery dates back to the early 1920s, when businessman Smbat Matevossian returned from Boston to his ancestral homeland and established a vineyard in the fertile Ararat Valley. However, turbulent political events soon led to its confiscation by the Bolsheviks and the dream was interrupted for decades. Only in 2008 did the descendants of Mateossian manage to reclaim the family vineyard and breathe new life into it, creating a modern winery where the traditions of the past are united with the innovations of the present.

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

  • Masterclass & tasting

Exclusions

  • Significant deviations from the route

  • Audio guides

  • Wi-Fi in the vehicles

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Samvel Mkrtumyan

Samvel Mkrtumyan

RU HY EN

Hi, I'm Samvel. With degrees in international relations and history, and years of connecting people from all walks of life, I've turned my passion for stories into guiding. I love revealing Armenia's hidden gems, sharing its quirky legends, and showcasing its breathtaking sights. It's fun, pal. Let's enjoy it together!

Hasmik Manukyan

Hasmik Manukyan

RU DE

My name is Hasmik Manukyan. I have extensive experience and hold a tour guide license. I conduct excursions in two languages – Russian and German. I completed guide-interpreter courses in Yerevan, advanced training courses at the Institute for Continuing Education in Moscow and participated in an international training program, for which I hold certificates. I love my job and meeting new people. Every time, I’m delighted to introduce guests to the beauty and landmarks of my country, striving to ensure they leave satisfied, in love with Armenia and eager to return again.

Gayane Harutyunyan

Gayane Harutyunyan

HY EN IT

Armenia should be visited with an open heart. As your guide, I don’t just offer tours – I create meaningful experiences that connect you deeply with Armenia’s history, culture, and people. With genuine love for my country, passion for its stories, and local insight, I make every journey personal, engaging and unforgettable – turning every place into a living memory you’ll carry with you.

Nina Manukyan

Nina Manukyan

RU HY EN

Hello! My name is Nina, I am a guide at "Hyur Service" company. I am happy to introduce guests to Armenia – its history, culture and ancient traditions. For me as a guide, it is very important that every tour is clear, engaging and comfortable. Together we will explore famous landmarks, create beautiful memories and of course, take lively photos :) I will be happy to become your guide in Armenia. Travel with "Hyur Service" and discover Armenia not only with your eyes, but also with your heart.

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