To help inspire or plan your trip to Armenia, some of its major attractions
for travellers are shown below, including some of the best natural, historical, cultural and adventure sites in the country.
These include all of UNESCO World Heritage Sites for Armenia which represent the best
of the world's cultural and natural heritage.
Click on the icons below to focus on specific types of features
(click again to return to all).
Natural | History | Wildlife | Trekking | Cities | Religious Monument | Boat Journey | Rail Journey | Diving | Cultural | Adrenaline | UNESCO WHS |
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Armenia
Monastery of Geghard | |
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The Monastery of Geghard is located at the entrance of the Azat Valley, northeast of the capital Yerevan. This complex of churches and tombs have been carved deep into rock and date back to the 4th century AD. It is believed that the spear which pierced the body of Jesus on the cross was kept here along with relics of the Apostles Andrew and John. Nearby the Roman temple at Garni dates back to AD 77, a pagan temple in the pre-Christian era. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Monastery of Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley |
Cathedrals of Echmiatsin and Zvartnots | |
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Echmiatsin was the capital of Armenia from 180 to 340 AD during which time Armenia became the first country in the world to adopt Christianity. The cathedral at Echmiatsin was founded in AD 303 and was Armenia's first church. The nearby Zvartnots Cathedral dates to the 7th century. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots |
Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin | |
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In northern Armenia near the border with Georgia lie the 10th century monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin. Built during the period of prosperity of the Kiurikian dynasty following independence, these were important centres of learning and represent the peak of Armenian religious architecture. Sanahin comprises the Cathedral of the Redeemer and other buildings located on a plateau above the Debet Gorge and was famous for its school of illuminators and calligraphers. Hahgpat comprises the Church of the Holy Cross as well as a gravit, chapter house and library. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin |