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Off the beaten path: Armenia

The Ararat valley of Armenia has been inhabited since the Stone Age, making it one of the oldest settlements in the world. It is also the world's first country to convert to Christianity in 301 A.D, and has a very rich ancient culture. There are plenty of places to explore and things to do for the ones who love off the beaten path travel - going to the really ancient monasteries, climbing mountains, buying handicrafts from different historical periods, as well as some unusual Soviet memorabilia items, enjoying the local food and wine, and many more.

Zvartnots Cathedral

Zvartnots is a mysterious structure built in the 7th century. Many questions about it remain unanswered - it has a Christian name, however the symbols on the structure come from the other religions.
Total rating:
0
In: science puzzles, ancient ruins, places of worship, sacred places, paganism

The longest cableway in the world - Wings of Tatev

Wings of Tatev is the longest non-stop cableway in the world, situated in Armenia, Halidzor village. The cableway leads to a major religious destination in Armenia, Tatev monastery, which was built in…
Total rating:
4.5
In: sacred places, man-made wonders, Guinness records

Khor Virap Monastery and the pit of Grigor the Illuminator

Khor Virap in Armenia is a holy site, where Saint Gregory the Illuminator spent imprisoned for 13 years. It stands before the Mount Ararat, which was the place of Noah's ark landing. Besides the…
Total rating:
4.7
In: mythology, biblical, places of worship, sacred places, medieval