Places to Go

Armavir

What Awaits in Armavir

The sun-kissed region of Armavir is located in the west of Armenia. It is home to ancient archaeological sites, beautiful fruit orchards, endless vineyards, and several UNESCO Heritage Sites. This corner of Armenia has a bit of everything, whether you’re a food and wine aficionado, a history buff, or adventure seeker.

Armavir may be the smallest of Armenia’s provinces, but it boasts some incredible views, with Mount Ararat to the south and Armenia’s tallest mountain, Mount Aragats, to the north.

The province is named after the ancient city of Armavir, founded way back in the 8th century BC by the Urartian King Argishti I, which later became the capital of the Kingdom of Armenia in 331 BC. Located entirely within the Ararat plain, Armavir is well known for its rich agricultural lands that yield

some of the country’s finest produce. It’s also the home to the spiritual center of Armenia and the Armenian people, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin of the Armenian Apostolic Church, where the Catholicos of All Armenians resides. Let’s see what Armavir has to offer travelers like you!

Culture

Like all Armenian regions, there’s a wealth of culture to experience in Armavir. From local cultural practices, to food traditions, to religious history and more, Armavir truly has it all. And you can experience it all in just a short amount of time, given that Armavir is Armenia’s smallest province.

Tangible Cultural Heritage

Armavir is home to the ruins of ancient capitals of the Kingdom of Armenia. Not only that, the largest community (that’s right, community) of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Armenia can be found in Armavir.

Vagharshapat

Vagharshapat, also known commonly as Etchmiadzin, is the fourth largest city in Armenia. Just a short 20- minute drive from Yerevan, Vagharshapat, is very accessible from the capital. One of the world’s spiritual center’s – Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, is situated in this town. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Armenian Apostolic church, because the See of the Catholicos of All Armenians was established in Holy Etchmiadzin.

Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin is the governing body of the Armenian Apostolic Church. It is headquartered around Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin in Vagharshapat and is the seat of the Catholicos of All Armenians. The organizational structure of the Mother See is composed of spiritual and administrative bodies representing the authority of the Armenian Church. The main cathedral of this monastic complex is the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin, built between 301-303 by Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia.

Gevorkian Theological Seminary

This is a theological university and institute of the Armenian Apostolic Church, opened in 1874 and located within the complex of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. The seminary currently holds the following chairs: Biblical studies, Historical Theology, Christian Doctrine, Practical Theology, Sacred Music, Philosophy and other historical-philological subjects.

Saint Hripsime Church

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 7th century church in Vagharshapat is one of the oldest surviving churches in the entire country. The current structure was completed in 618, replacing the original mausoleum built in 395 that contained the remains of Saint Hripsime, considered to be among the first Christian martyrs in Armenia and to whom the church was dedicated. It is known for its fine Armenian-style architecture of the classical period. A Hellenistic temple actually stood in its place prior to the fourth century. Excavations revealed a monumental stone building with Hellenistic ornaments under the church’s supporting column.

Saint Gayane Church

A notable site is this 7th-century church, located within walking distance from the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin and also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicated to one of Armenia’s first Christian martyrs, Gayane, an abbess who was persecuted for her Christian faith, the church was built on the site where she was killed.

Saint Shoghakat Church

Shoghakat [shoh-ghah-kaht] meaning “drop of light” in Armenian, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and this church is named such because it is here where a group of unnamed nuns, followers of the Saints Hripsime and Gayane, were martyred during the time of Armenia’s conversion to Christianity. According to legend, a ray of light came down from heaven during their martyrdom. This church was erected in their honor in 1694, and it is believed that the structure standing at the site today possibly rests on the foundations of the earlier church.

Zvartnots Cathedral

Located in the city of Vagharshapat, this 7th century cathedral, which now lies in ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Zvartnots Cathedral was noted for its circular exterior structure, unique in medieval Armenian architecture, and a set of interior piers that upheld a multi floor structure crowned with a dome. Zvartnots stood for 320 years before collapsing in the 10th century, probably due to an earthquake. When visiting you will get a sense of just how massive this cathedral was, and appreciate its intricately carved columns.

Saint Shushanik Church

Also known as Shushanavank, this church is located near the village of Bagaran on the right bank of the Akhuryan River. There are two local legends about the founding of this church – first, that a father built it in the area where his daughter, Shushanik, went missing, and second, that a young woman named Shushanik, who was always late to mass, built it near her home so she wouldn’t have to travel so far to worship.

Sardarapat Memorial Complex

The Sardarapat Memorial Complex is a must-visit in Armavir region for history enthusiasts. Commemorating the critical 1918 Battle of Sardarapat, where Armenian forces heroically halted the Ottoman advance, this site celebrates the nation’s survival and resilience. Designed by Rafayel Israyelian and completed in 1968, the complex features striking stone-winged bulls and a towering bell that rings in victory. Visitors can explore a museum filled with artifacts that vividly portray Armenian history and culture. This awe-inspiring site not only honors the bravery of the past but also embodies the enduring spirit of the Armenian people, making it a powerful and memorable destination.

Yervandashat Ruins

Yervandashat was an ancient city that served as the capital of the Kingdom of Armenia between 210-176 BC under the rule of the Yervanduni royal family and at the beginning of the rule of their successors, the Artashesian dynasty. According to historical records, King Yervand IV founded Yervandashat to replace Armavir as his capital after the previous capital had been left dry by a shift of the Araks River.

Musaler Memorial

This memorial is dedicated to the 40- day resistance of Armenians against attacking Ottoman Turks during the 1915 Armenian Genocide, when locals from six Armenian villages on the Mediterranean coast of what is today Turkey sought refuge and protected themselves on Mount Musa, near the modern Syrian border. Survivors from the resistance who later moved to Armenia, founded the village where this memorial is located, also named Musaler, after the mountain where they heroically defended themselves.

Museums

Sardarapat Museum

This memorial sculptural complex is built in the sunny Ararat valley. By allegories, it represents the Armenian-Turkish battle in 1918 and glorifies the brilliant victory of Armenian people.

Treasury House Museum

You will see holy relics, applied art, vestments, crosses, wood engravings, and some fine old carpets at the Treasury Museum.

Alex and Marie Manoogian Treasury

This treasury house was established in 1982 with charity of Armenian benefactor and national hero Mr. Alex Manoogian (USA).

Armenia Ethnography and the National Liberation Movement Museum

Discover the National Museum of Armenian Ethnography and History of the Liberal Struggle in Armenia’s Sardarapat Memorial Complex.

Vagharshapat Historical and Ethnographic Museum

Founded in 1964, this museum, also belonging to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, houses over 15,000 religious and historic artifacts dating back to the Stone Age.

Intangible Cultural Heritage

Beyond the UNESCO-recognized heritage sites and other valuable monuments of the region, local people in Armavir carry on intangible cultural traditions and practices that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Khachkar Carving

Khachkars [khahch-kahr] or cross-stones are large, intricately carved memorial steles bearing a cross as well as additional motifs such as rosettes, interlaces, and botanical motifs. Khachkars first emerged in the 9th century and can be found all over Armenia, both new and old. Because Armavir is the home of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, there are lots of khachkar makers in this part of Armenia. Don’t miss the opportunity to see their work up close!

Embroidery

Embroidery and needlework are important aspects of Armenia’s cultural heritage, especially among women, who keep the practice alive today. Historically, women would often gather in the homes of friends or neighbors to work together. It was a pastime as well as a way to improve their skills. While working, women would often sing songs, recite poetry, tell stories, and share local news. Armenian embroidery designs include geometric, animal, and human motifs.

Festivals and Feasts

Festivals are the perfect way to get to know local culture and traditions, and like all of Armenia’s regions, Armavir hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year you’re more than welcome to experience.

Tolma Festival

If you’re in Armenia you’re most likely going to try tolma – grape or cabbage leaves wrapped around rice or rice and meat fillings. At the annual tolma festival, chefs from around the country gather to share their recipes and find out who makes the tastiest tolma in Armenia. Be sure to go with an empty stomach!

Harisa Day

Harissa [hah-reeh-sah] is a hearty dish made with tender chicken, wheat, and rich butter, simmered to perfection, and every third Sunday of September, local people gather in Musaler village to make this dish in big pots as a way of remembering the resistance at Musaler during the Armenian Genocide. According to records of the events, the Armenians who resisted at Mount Musa were able to survive for 40 days by cooking harissa. On Harissa Day, you can expect patriotic songs, dancing, and of course, harissa, all to celebrate the successful Musaler resistance.

Grape Blessing Day

Grape Blessing Day is one of five main feasts observed by the Armenian Apostolic Church, and is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. Grapes are blessed specifically because it’s the only fruit used to make wine, and wine symbolizes the blood of Christ in Christianity. Local tradition dictates that one should not eat grapes until they are blessed. You can go to any church on this day, participate in the liturgy, and then take home blessed grapes with you. Location - Vagharshapat and across Armenia

The Blessing of the Holy Chrism (Myron)

The blessing of the radiant Myron is a magnificent and inspiring ceremony, significant for every Armenian. Traditionally, every five or seven years, new Myron is prepared and blessed through unique and stirring ceremonies only in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Myron’s principal ingredients are olive oil and balsam, mixed with approximately forty fragrant flowers, spices and essential oils. In the Armenian Apostolic Church, the consecration of the Myron is a ceremony reserved exclusively for the Catholicos of All Armenians. The Catholicos blesses the sacred Myron using the Church’s three hallowed relics: the Right - Hand of St. Gregory the Illuminator, the Holy Lance that pierced Christ’s side, and a relic from the True Cross.

Cuisine & Wine

Armavir is home to several local food traditions that you should not miss when visiting:

Lavash [lah-vahsh] - Armenia’s National Bread

Ask any traveler who’s been to Armenia, and they’re sure to rave about the food they ate here. One of the most iconic staples you’ll encounter is lavash [lah-vahsh], Armenia’s national bread, inscribed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Lavash is a soft, thin flatbread traditionally baked in a tonir, an underground clay oven. However, it is more than just bread, it represents Armenian hospitality and community. It’s a symbol of Armenian hospitality, served at most meals and used in rituals like weddings, where it’s placed on newlyweds’ shoulders for prosperity. In Armavir, lavash is central to daily life, with local bakeries perfecting the craft for generations.

Etchmiadzni kufta [koof-tah]

kuftas are essentially meatballs that come in all different shapes, sizes, and styles of cooking. Etchmiadzin is known for its own version of kufta that’s composed of ground beef that’s boiled and then eaten with butter.

Tolma [tohl-mah]

we already covered tolma and its festival in the guidebook, but it’s worth mentioning once again. Armavir is one of Armenia’s main winemaking regions, meaning it’s a great place to try grape leaf tolma straight from the local vineyards. In the summertime, you can try summer tolma – instead of grape leaves, ground meat and rice are stuffed into veggies like eggplant, zucchini, tomato, and onion.

Wine

Armavir is one of Armenia’s five grape growing and winemaking regions. Ancient archaeological finds, including wine presses and storage vessels, indicate the deep-rooted connection between the local people and winemaking. Armavir is renowned for its ancient winemaking tradition, fertile volcanic soils, and favorable continental climate. Known for cultivating both indigenous grapes like Areni and Voskehat, as well as international varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay, Armavir produces wines with unique flavor profiles.

Nature

Armavir is characterized by dry continental climate, with hot summers and mildly cold winters. The landscape is largely flat, as the region is part of the larger Ararat Valley, making it perfect for agriculture.

You’ll notice seemingly endless fruit orchards and vineyards as you travel through the region. Though it may be flat, Armavir is surrounded by towering peaks like Mt. Ararat and Mt. Aragats. Roll down the windows, turn up the music, and enjoy your travels through this beautiful corner of Armenia that’s perfect for a road trip.

Fruit Orchards and Greenhouses

The entire Armavir region is part of the Ararat Valley, where a significant portion of Armenia’s agricultural production takes place. As such, the flat land here is perfect for growing fruits and vegetables. As you travel through Armavir, you’ll notice endless orchards of various local fruits, like apricots, apples, pears, plums, and peaches. During the cold winter months, local people turn to greenhouses to grow their delicious vegetables.

Wheat Fields

Armenia may be a mostly mountainous country, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t ideal spots to grow wheat. Armavir is one of those spots. In the late summer and fall months, the region turns a beautiful golden color as the wheat becomes ready for harvest. Enjoy the views of these golden fields during your travels.

Vordan Karmir Preserve

Vordan Karmir (Armenian cochineal) nature preserve, established in 1987, safeguards habitats where the Armenian cochineal, an endangered species of scale insect, thrives, particularly in saline habitats and among saltwater plants. Historically, the Armenian cochineal played a significant role in dyeing local textiles, such as clothing and rugs, producing a distinctive and beautiful hue of red.

Adventure

Armavir may be mostly flat in terms of geography, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any outdoor adventure activities to be had here. Keep reading to discover what adventures you can have during your travels.

Biking

Biking in the Armavir region of Armenia offers enthusiasts a captivating journey through a landscape steeped in history and natural beauty. As riders pedal through this region, they are greeted by picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and ancient cultural landmarks. The terrain, characterized by its gentle slopes and scenic trails, provides an ideal setting. The road between Yerevan and Vagharshapat, and all the way to Sardarapat, is a popular route for cyclists, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Motorcycling

Motorcycling is another exhilarating way to experience the natural beauty and outdoor adventures of Armavir. The region’s landscapes, from lush vineyards to historical sites, provide an ideal backdrop for thrilling rides. For an unforgettable journey, we recommend hitting the road between Yerevan and the city of Metsamor.

Fishing

If you like fishing, head to the serene waters of Metsamor Lake to catch some local fish. You may just run into local fishers and learn about their time-honored fishing practices. Additionally, you might discover the art of preparing your catch the local way, immersing yourself in the rich culinary traditions of the region.

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