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Dilijan is considered a favorite place for the summer holidays. It is also called the “cultural and intellectual capital of Armenia.” Dilijan is located at the intersection of roads connecting the cities of the regions of Tavush, Lori, and Gegharkunik. The city is a climatic and balneological resort. Dilijan is surrounded by dense and mountain forests from all sides, that is why the air is crystal clear here. And the healing mineral waters of Dilijan are exported to several different countries.
Dilijan is a rather old city. Here you can find picturesque streets with houses of old construction and shops of craftsmen which work in the same way as hundreds of years ago, preserving the traditions of ancient arts. There are not only natural but also historical sights. Let’s find out exactly what places in Dilijan should definitely be included in the program of your trip.
Haghartsin Monastery
The monastery is located in the Tavush region, in the valley of Ijevan ridge, completely covered by forests. Once there was the ancient village Haghartsin. The village was ruined and in commemoration of it, the monastery got the name Haghartsin. The oldest monastery buildings were erected in the 10th century. The monastery includes three churches: St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Virgin), St. Grigor and St. Stepanos. The remains of ancient tombs have been preserved on the territory of the monastery. You can also see amazingly beautiful cross-stones here.
Dilijan National Park
Dilijan National Park was established in 1958. The park occupies about 28,000 hectares, which includes the city of Dilijan itself. There are many picturesque mountain lakes and healing mineral springs. The park also has several ancient monasteries and cemeteries, which are considered historical monuments.
Craftsmen’s Street
you will find a very interesting street, with restored old-built houses in the center of Dilijan. Cozy lofts, wooden balconies decorated with carved railings, the special atmosphere will take you a couple of centuries ago. Here you can see the life of the old city, the work of real skilled craftsmen, woodcarvers, jewelers, bakers, potters, etc. By the way, if you wish, you can try yourself in pottery, and take the vase you made with your own hands with you as a souvenir.
Goshavank Monastery
This medieval monastery is named after the famous Armenian writer and scholar Mkhitar Gosh, who took an active part in the construction. The monastery building was erected in 1188. Once Goshavank was one of the largest spiritual centers of Armenia.
The Monument to the Heroes of the Film “Mimino”
Those who saw this beautiful film probably remembered the phrase “In Dilijan, you just turn on the tap and outflows the water…it’s the second-best in the world.” To commemorate the favorite heroes of the legendary film a monument was erected in the center of Dilijan.
Crystal Lake
“Parz Lich” means “Clear” or “Crystal Lake”. A beautiful mountain lake surrounded by a picturesque forest. There is a recreation area nearby, you can take a boat or just relax on the shore, admiring the natural views.
Matosavank Monastery
Matosavank is a monastery of the beginning of the 13th century, located near Dilijan in an overgrown wooded area. The ancient walls of the monastery and the khachkars (cross-stones) standing on the territory are partly covered with thick green moss. Part of the complex is in a dilapidated state; the atmosphere is mysterious and a bit sinister here.
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