Discover the South of Armenia on a Private Tour

Highlights: 

• Visit Khor Virap - the closest point to mount Ararat

• Find out where the world's oldest leather shoe and winery were found

• Admire the unique architecture and surroundings of Noravank monastery

Includes: 

• A guide

• Private transportation

• Entrance fees

• Pick-up/drop-off

You will start the tour by heading to Khor Virap monastery, built in 642. The name translated from Armenian means "deep hole/dungeon". Khor Virap is one of the shrines of the Armenian Apostolic Church, a place of pilgrimage. The most interesting fact of this monastery is the fact that it was built on the site of the royal prison, where the Gregory Illuminator - the patron saint and the first official head of the Armenian Apostolic Church was previously imprisoned for 13 years by the Armenian king. This site is famous also for the breathtaking views of one of the symbols of Armenia - Ararat mount. 

Next you will head to discover Areni Cave or Bird Cave, which is situated in the rock and comprises a range of spaces, hewn in the rock, linked with narrow aisles. Since 2007 archaeological researches have been held and as a result, materials dating back to 4200-3500 BC were found: crockery, plant residues, apricot and grape kernels, knitted of reed, pieces of cloth, women jewelry and so on. Several years ago a place, equipped for wine production, was found there. This most ancient winery in the world has 5000-5500 year history. During the archaeological excavations, the oldest leather shoe (5500 years old) in the world was found, which was filled with grass to keep the form of the shoe. Now you can see the shoe in the History museum in Yerevan. 

Finally, prepare yourself to see one of the unique and beautiful architectures in Armenia - Noravank monastery. The monastery dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by beautiful red cliffs, which give the monastery even more unique and breathtaking view. At the end, you will head back to Yerevan.