Private Tour to The Arch of Charents, Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery

Take trip to Geghard a medieval monastery being partially carved out of the adjacent mountain, surrounded by cliffs. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the main chapel was built in 1215, the monastery complex was founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator at the site of a sacred spring inside a cave. The whole complex is awash with detailed sculptures, cliffside monks’ cells, and many striking stone crosses (khachkars), elaborately etched into the rock faces.

On the road to Geghard Monastery you will see The Arch of Charents which was erected in 1957 and named in honour of Armenian poet Eghishe Charents, who wrote the best poem, dedicated to Armenia, full of true love and pride. From the Charents Arch opens a breathtaking view to Ararat, probably the most stunning view of the Biblical mountain.

We will continue our trip to Garni. This Pagan Temple was built in the Ist century AD. It is the only temple that remains from the Pagan times in Armenia. It was devoted to the God of the Sun Mihr, and was a gift to the queen. In 1679 it was destroyed by earthquake. In the 1975 the Temple was restored.

Lavash(Armenian Bread) baking ceremony and degustation.

This traditional flatbread is made with flour, water, and salt, and its thickness depends on how thinly it’s rolled out. Toasted sesame or poppy seeds — or both — are sometimes then sprinkled on top before baking. Traditionally, the dough is rolled out flat and slapped against the hot walls of a clay oven where it then cooks. Watch a demonstration on how lavash is made and take the opportunity to try your hand at preparing and baking it. Then, once it’s ready, enjoy a tasting: savoring it with local cheese and green vegetables.