Route: Ayrivank- The Selim caravan-sarai –Smbataberd-Areni
Rate includes: qualified guide services, transport services,wine tasting at the Areni
Duration: 8-9 hours
The Ayrivank monastery is located on the West coast of lake Sevan and dates back to the IX – XII centuries. The temple is also built of black stone and has a square layout. The facades of the temple are cruciform and have no decorations other than carved crosses. The center of the temple is decorated with a low wide dome.
The Selim caravanserai was built in 1332 under Prince Chesar Orbelian. It is located on the Eastern slope of the Selim pass (2410m). The length of the caravanserai is 35.5 m. The building is made of clean-cut basalt slabs. Its gable roof is covered with large stone slabs laid like tiles, which indicates the technical experience and skill of the architect. The structure belongs to the basic type.
Smbataberd is one of the largest fortresses of Vayots Dzor and Syunik . Historical information about the bloody war between Armenians and Persians in the 5th century (the battle of Avarayr) has been preserved. However, it is likely that the fortress existed before the 5th century. Branch of the dynasty of Syunik Dukes Wascana Smbataberd was turned into a military base. And during the reign of the orbelians, Smbataberd became even stronger. The complex was built for long-term defense, according to all the canons of building a medieval fortress. The total length is about one kilometer.
Areni is a wine region of Armenia, where an annual wine festival is held. Areni winery was opened in 1994. In the tasting room, you can try red and white wines, fruit and berry. The most popular are pomegranate and apricot wines, but you can also try wine from quince, cherry, BlackBerry, raspberry, peach and others.