TOP 6 ATTRACTIONS OF THE ARZNI VILLAGE AND ITS SURROUNDINGS

If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, rest in Arzni is exactly what you need. It is a quiet, cozy village – a climatic and balneological resort, located in Kotayk province. Local healing waters are rich in carbon dioxide and mineral elements; they are used for treatment and prevention of various diseases, as well as for general health procedures. It is believed that Arzni village itself was founded in the 19th century, but the mention of the settlement in this place, like some local monuments, date back to an earlier period. Some historians associate the origin of the name of the village with the legend of the love of the Assyrian queen Semiramis (Shamiram) for the Armenian king Ara the Beautiful. According to assumptions, it was in these places that the events described in the legend took place. So what to see during your vacation in Arzni?

Ancient church

Despite the fact that the first mention of a settlement in this place dates back to the 15th century, an old Armenian church dating back to the early Middle Ages has been preserved on the territory of Arzni. According to experts, this landmark was erected in the 6th century AD.

Assyrian Church and Armenian churches

Arzni village was completely rebuilt by the Assyrians in the 19th century. The Assyrian church founded at that period is also preserved here. The building of the church is notable for the fact that the stones for its construction were taken from the previously destroyed ancient Armenian church.
You can also see Armenian churches of a relatively late construction In Arzni. Thus, among the local historical and architectural monuments, one can note St. Karapet church (17-18 century), St. Peter and Paul church (18-19 century), Holy Mother of God church (Surb Mariam Astvatsatsin 19th century).

Cave dwellings and Ancient cemetery

Burials were found in the northern part of the village, which testify that people lived in these places since very ancient times. Old cemeteries with many tombstones decorated with stone crosses were discovered here.
You can see another interesting attraction of Arzni – well-preserved natural caves in the lower part of the rocks in the gorge of the Hrazdan River. Once these caves served as a dwelling for people, as well as a reliable shelter where villagers took refuge during enemy raids.

Hrazdan Gorge

The very location of the village can be considered one of the local natural attractions. The settlement is located in the picturesque gorge of the Hrazdan River. There are also five operating health resorts in Arzni village. Nature untouched by civilization and clean mountain air make the area perfect for long walks and active pastime.