The Arshakid Kings Mausoleum is a grave monument complex which is situated near the Amberd River, and is located in the center of the Aghtsk village. It is best known for the mausoleum which once contained the remains of both Christian and pagan kings of the Arshakid dynasty of Armenia․ Approximately one hundred meters north of the basilica and tomb complex is a shrine that sits alongside a path leading down to the gorge below, where there are many caves that date from the 16th-18th centuries. Some of the caves have doors and were used during these periods as refuge from invasions.
The well-established transport infrastructure of Armenia allows to get to Arshakid Mausoleum by a private car or with the help of various travel companies which offer regular excursions and tours to different sights of the country. Due to the geographical location of Arshakid Mausoleum the trip will not seem long.
The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Arshakid Mausoleum depends on the weather conditions.
According to Pavstos Buzand, Persian King Shapuh the Second, captured Ani-Kamakh in 364, opened the graves of the Armenian kings buried there and tried to transport the remains to Persia. The reason was that the pagan Persians believed, that along with the bones of those kings, their world would transmit their "glory, fortune and courage". However, Vasak Mamikonian commander-in-chief (sparapet), who defeated the Persians in Ayrarat province, seized these relics and buried them in the Akhtsk.
It is considered that the mausoleum was a two-storied. On the stone pillars of the entrance are preserved bas-reliefs of hunting scenes. According to the legend, the remains of the pagan kings from the Arshakids dynasty were buried to the left of the entrance, and the kings who had already adopted Christianity were buried on the right, near the bas-relief with the cross.
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