Treasures of Armenia: Akhtala, Haghpat and Mikoyan Museum

Discover the hidden gems of northern Armenia on a day trip from Yerevan. Explore the medieval Akhtala Fortress, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Haghpat Monastery, and enjoy a traditional lunch
Begin your journey at the Akhtala Monastery, perched on a high rocky cape. In the Middle Ages, it was a powerful defensive outpost, and today it is a pilgrimage site for art lovers. The main church of the complex is famous for its incredible, miraculously preserved 13th-century frescoes. This is a rare example of the harmonious fusion of Armenian architecture and Byzantine iconography.

Next, descend into the Debed River gorge and pass through the town of Alaverdi. Sandwiched between steep cliffs, this town has long been a center of the copper industry. Its rugged industrial beauty, ancient bridges, and Soviet architecture create a stunning contrast with the ancient shrines you'll see further on.

Stop at a cozy local restaurant to sample the famous dishes of Lori cuisine: traditional shashlik (khorovats), homemade cheeses, herbs, and freshly baked lavash.

In the village of Sanahin, delve into the history of the 20th century. Two outstanding brothers were born here: Artem Mikoyan (a brilliant aircraft designer and creator of the MiG fighter jets) and Anastas Mikoyan (an influential Soviet politician who held power from Lenin to Brezhnev). At the Mikoyan Brothers House Museum, see their personal belongings, rare photographs, and the main exhibit—a real MiG-21 fighter jet, displayed right on the museum grounds against the backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains.

The highlight of the day will be a visit to Haghpat Monastery (10th-13th centuries). This UNESCO World Heritage Site was not only a religious center but also the largest academy in medieval Armenia. The famous poet and ashugh Sayat-Nova lived and worked here. Walk through the echoing halls of the vestibules, peer into the ancient book depository with holes in the floor for hiding manuscripts, and take panoramic photos of the canyon from the observation deck. After a busy day of discovery, return in comfort.

Garantir la disponibilité du livre dans les plus brefs délais. Les réservations anticipées valent la peine d'être prises en considération, surtout si vous planifiez le voyage en haute saison, comme les jours fériés ou les fins de semaine.

Cette excursion peut être annulée sans frais jusqu'à : heures d'annulation avant le début du voyage. Si vous l'annulez après les heures d'annulation ou si vous ne vous présentez pas à l'excursion, le prix total de l'activité vous sera toujours facturé. Tout retard à la prise en charge ou au départ sera considéré comme un retard.