Etchmiadzin, Mother Cathedral, Zvartnots Cathedral, Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort, Kecharis Monastery, ropeway
Private day tour from Yerevan to Etchmiadzin, St. Gayane, St. Hripsime, Zvartnots, Tsaghkadzor and Kecharis. From 33313 AMD.
About this tour
Duration 9-10 hours.
Within the framework of this cultural tour, we will visit the spiritual center of Armenians and the main church, the Holy Mother See of Etchmiadzin, St. Hripsime and St. Gayane churches and the 7th-century temple Zvartnots. This tour will interest the most curious tourists interested in medieval architecture, art, religion and history. All the places included in the tour program are under the protection of UNESCO World Heritage. After this we will go to the Tsaghkadzor ski resort to enjoy winter or summer activites due to weather.
Itinerary
1 Stop 1 Etchmiadzin Mother Cathedral
"According to tradition, the main church was built in the place where Miadzin descended, Etchmiadzin. In Gregory's vision, Christ shows the place of the main temple with a golden hammer.
The oldest cathedral in the world, founded in 303, was destined to become an important witness and participant in the history of the Armenian people. Being the most important center of the Armenian Church's world network, the Etchmiadzin Cathedral is now represented by a large area, including many old and new churches, secular structures, libraries, a seminary, etc."
2 Stop 2 St. Gayane
The series of glorious churches of the seventh century continues with St. Gayane, which was founded only 12 years later than St. Hripsime. This church, built in 630, was built on the grave of a Christian virgin who died in Armenia at the end of the 3rd and the beginning of the 4th century, about 3 centuries after her death. The church was restored in 1652. There are many coffins in the yard, among them famous military and cultural figures of the Armenian people.
3 Stop 3 St. Hripsime
According to experts, Saint Hripsime's architecture is considered one of the best Armenian examples. Here, for the first time, Armenian niches providing seismic resistance were used. The construction of the huge church was completed in 618, leaving behind a great architectural legacy, the details of which are still used today.
4 Stop 4 Zvartnots Cathedral
Despite being destroyed, Zvartnots continues to be unique in terms of its spiritual, cultural and architectural significance. This huge church named after the angels had been built for 9 years and consecrated in 652. The wonderful temple with a height of 46-49 meters was destroyed, probably as a result of an earthquake, after which such churches were no longer built in Armenia. The real appearance of Zvartnots was unknown for a long time until architect T. Toramanian proposed the real initial form of the church, which was later proven by other historical facts.
5 Stop 5 Tsaghkadzor ski resort
Tsaghkadzor is one of the most beautiful and touristic cities in Armenia. It is lovely in all seasons and a favourite place for locals and tourists. Tsaghkadzor is known for Armenia's best health resorts, entertainment places, ravishing nature and cultural monuments. It is only 50 km away from the capital. Being located at an altitude of 1840 meters above sea level, Tsaghkadzor is considered one of the best places for passive and active recreation.
6 Stop 6 Kecharis Monastic complex
Kecharis monastic complex is one of the most important cultural monuments of Tsaghkadzor. The four churches of the monastic complex were built during the XI-XIII centuries. Having unique architecture and rich history, Kecharis has been one of the prominent church and writing centers of Armenia for centuries, thanks to Pahlavuni and Proshian princes. The complex consists of four churches, a vestibule, chapels and about three dozen khachkars (XI-XVII centuries). Over the centuries, the monastery had been destroyed and restored many times. The current appearance of the monastic complex is thanks to the Austrian-Armenian philanthropist Vladimir Harutyunyan.
What’s included
- Transport
Pickup & Important information
FAQ
How long does this tour last?
The tour lasts about 9-10 hours. It is a one-day private tour without overnight stay.
Is this tour available every day or only on certain days?
This tour runs on demand with a custom date. Please confirm the date with the operator.
What time does the tour start?
The exact start time is not specified. Please check with the operator when booking.
What time does the tour usually end?
The exact end time is not listed, but the total duration is 9-10 hours. The final timing depends on the start time and the pace of the day.
What places are included in the itinerary?
The itinerary includes Etchmiadzin Mother Cathedral, Saint Gayane Church, Saint Hripsime Church, Zvartnots Cathedral, Tsaghkadzor ski resort and Kecharis Monastery. The route combines cultural sites with a resort stop.
Which churches in Etchmiadzin are included in the tour?
The tour includes Etchmiadzin Mother Cathedral, Saint Gayane Church and Saint Hripsime Church. These are major spiritual and historical sites of Armenia.
Is Zvartnots included in the program too?
Yes, Zvartnots is also included in the program. It is an important 7th-century monument.
What is planned in Tsaghkadzor?
The program includes Tsaghkadzor ski resort and Kecharis Monastery. According to the description, winter or summer activities may be available there depending on the weather.
Is the ropeway included in this tour?
The ropeway is mentioned in the tour title, but the included service details are not specified. Please ask the operator whether it is included and how the visit is arranged.
Is this a private tour or a group tour?
This is a private tour. The date is arranged on demand.
What kind of transport is used for the tour?
Tours run on a comfortable minivan or bus depending on group size. The transport is fully heated in winter.
Is there Wi-Fi in the vehicle?
There is usually no Wi-Fi in the transport, but mobile internet works on most of the route.
Have questions?