Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery

The first place we will visit is Lake Sevan, the beauty of Armenia. Being 1900 meters above sea level, Sevan is the second-highest lake in the world with a freshwater supply. Sevan, of volcanic origin, is surrounded by mountain ranges divided into two parts and one large peninsula. Lake Sevan enjoys great popularity among tourists for both active and passive recreation. With a maximum depth of 83 meters, Sevan is the only one of the three historical Armenian lakes located on the territory of the Republic of Armenia.

Mariam, the daughter of King Ashot I, promised to build 30 churches in honour of her late husband. She kept her promise throughout her life. One of them, Sevanavank, was built in 874. Founded in the 4th century, Sevanavank experienced its development in the 9th century. Apart from the two standing churches, the unique khachkar of the 17th century, with its many biblical scenes, deserves special attention. The name of the capital, Yerevan, was recorded for the first time on the dome of Sevanavank.