نظرة عامة

The tour starts at  10:00 
The tour lasts 11-12 hours
Itinerary: March 15 - November 15 

Today we are going to vistit Armeninan Alphabet Alley.  Armenian Alphabet Monument is located in the village of Artashavan, at the east side bottom of Mt. Aragats. It was erected in 2005 to the 1600 anniversary of creation of the Armenian alphabet by the design of the famous Armenian architect Jim Torosyan. The monument is an interesting demonstration of the stone carvings of 39 Armenian letters. The Armenian alphabet has been used to write the Armenian language since the year 405 or 406 and is still used to present Armenian language in written form. It was devised by Saint Mesrop Mashtots, an Armenian linguist and ecclesiastical leader, in order to make the Bible accessible to Armenians and spread Christianity. Originally it contained 36 letters and had been completed in the Middle Ages.

Then we are going to visit Lori Fortress.  Medieval city-fortress Lori (Lori berd) was founded in XI century. It is located at the intersection of Lori's picturesque gorges and the two old bridges are connecting it with the outside world. One of them was completely repaired and only one part is kept from the other one. Regardless the fact that the fortress was cruelly destroyed, some parts of it, including the bathrooms and the chapel-mausoleum were kept. There are unique murals found in the residential areas of the fortress which, if compared to the other contemporary paintings, are in secular manner. 

Later a visti to Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries. The monastery of Sanahin is on the right bank of Debed River. This architectural complex consists of several churches, seminary, book depository. The building of the seminary, which connects St. Astvatsastin (Holy Mother of God) and Allsaviour churches was from the outset built to make the edifices more earthquake resistant.

Situated not far from Sanahin Haghpat monastery has its significant place in the historical and cultural life of Armenia. It was built during the reign of king Ashot Bagratuni. Numerous valuable manuscripts and miniature paintings have been produced in the scriptorium of Haghpat for many centuries. In the 18th century the famous Armenian bard Sayat-Nova used to live and create in this monastery. The belfry with its unique architectural composition is of stunning interest.

After having a visit to the famous "Gntunik" bakery we will be ready to complete our tour and return back to Yerevan.