Home to the capital city Yerevan and the majority of the country’s population, Central Armenia is truly the heart of the country both geographically, and socially.
Yerevan is known for being one of the most laid-back European capitals. It’s easy manor and relaxed attitude belie the tomes of priceless ancient texts and artifacts tucked away in its museums and churches.
Of particular importance is the Matenadran, where one of the world’s great showpieces of early inscription is always on display. A treasure that could tour the museums of the world to much fanfare, the “Homilies of Mush” instead, like most Armenian treasures, sit awaiting discovery by visitors, a regular fixture for locals. Armenia claims to be the first country to adopt the Christian religion, as early as the beginning of the 4th century AD. The manuscripts, Bibles, and letters stashed around the city are part of an ancient fabric.
From the 2,800-year-old walls and ruins of the Erebuni fortress to the Soviet-influenced architecture of Yerevan, the manmade wonders of the region’s built environment is equally astounding. The Erebuni fortress looks down over the plains of Ararat, a strategic position during turbulent times. It also contains one of the few pagan sites in the country, a temple to the god Khaldi. The fortress was built by a Urartian king, a contains frescoes that offer insight into this Iron Age kingdom.
For those who want to mix in some adrenaline with their history, Central Armenia’s landscape offers pleanty of chances to get outside to play.
Lovers of the ski slopes flock to the town of Tsaghkadzor for downhill winter fun, and a trip to Mt. Aragats, the country’s highest peak allows for a visit to the 7th-century Amberd Fortress. Your private guide can tailor the hiking to fit exactly the experience you want, making sure that you are comfortable, warm, and well fed throughout.
