Armenia's Crossroads of Faiths Tour

Visit the only pagan temple existent in Armenia, the 2^nd century pagan temple of Garni was reconstructed from ruins. This pre-Christian structure, with its classical Hellenist lines, is situated in a picturesque mountain locale, offering a breathtaking panorama of the valley below. The structure of the temple with its columns and dimensions was created to please the gods and protect the people from their wrath. Garni temple was destroyed by an earthquake in 1679 and rebuilt during the Soviet era. The ruins include a bath-house, where you can see remnants of beautiful mosaic work.

You'll be greeted by the hospitable villagers of Garni and will visit a typical Armenian village home.

This tour will next take you to one of the most unique monasteries in Armenia, the Monastery of Geghart.

This ancient monastery was carved out of solid rock. In ancient times this monastery was known as "the monastery of the seven churches", "the monastery of the forty altars" or Ayrivank (the monastery of the cave), confirming the presence of ancient caves dug into the rock. Geghartavank is the monastery of the spear. This last name derives from the relics, for many years conserved in the monastery and now in Echmiadzin's museum, of the spear that was said to have wounded the chest of Christ on the cross. The exact date of Geghart's foundation is not known, but according to the inscriptions found locally dating from the 7^th and 8^th centuries, it is likely that it dates back to the early times when Christianity was recognised and declared the official state religion. The main church dates back to 1215. Inside the church's interior exists a natural spring, anciently worshipped and today carefully preserved. A visit to Geghart is truly a spiritual experience.

- It is advisable to have a warm jacket in all seasons and comfortable shoes for walking.

- These are private tours with as many photo stops as you wish.