Optional Activity: Khor Virap Monastery – Etchmiadzin Cathedral – Gata baking master class in a local comunity- Zvartnots Cathedral – Yerevan
Visit Khor Virap Monastery (“deep pit”), (4th c. A.D) at the base of Mount Ararat. Enjoy the beautiful view to the biblical Ararat Mountain, were Noah’s arch cast an anchor. *Please note that the visibility may be difficult depending on weather conditions.
Head to Etchmiadzin, the center of Armenian Christianity, which is considered to be the “Vatican” city of Armenia with the Holy See of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
Visit the Cathedral, built in 301-303 A.D and declared UNESCO world heritage. Being the first state Christian church in the world the cathedral boasts of its unique architectural style and frescos that were worked out during centuries by a generation of painters belonging to one and the same dynasty. Legend has it that it was here that Jesus Christ descended from Heaven to show where he wanted a church to be built.
NOTE: In the Etchmiadzin Cathedral there have been cosmetic reconstruction processes lately and a new layer of frescos was discvered and by the announcement of the government the cathedral is blocked, as they are doing researches and new excavations too. This means that the tour to the cathedral will not be realized and the guests might not see the inside of the church.
Gata Making Participation in Etchmiadzin: Participation in the ceremony of traditional Armenian delicious gata (sweet bread) baking in a local community.
Visit 7th century Zvartnots Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage), which was excavated and reconstructed in the early 20th century. The overall bold design and construction represents architectural innovation at its finest. It is originally a masterpiece of Middle Ages as having unique design and architecture techniques employed in its construction it had global influence on architecture of the time.
Supplement: 1110 AED for 3 pax (private minivan, English speaking guide, entrance fees, master class not included in the package price)