KHOR VIRAP-BIRDS CAVE-ARENI WINERY

The tour starts at 10:00. Тоday, we will go to the origins of Christianity - to the monastery of Khor Virap, which keeps the history of the spread of Christianity in Armenia: according to legend, Grigory the Illuminator was languishing here for 14 years in a deep pit, infested with snakes. The name of the monastery is translated as: "deep pit". This monastery was built on the site of the ancient capital of Armenia Artashat, the oldest building was erected in 642, this is the chapel of St. Gregory. The complex also includes the Church of the Holy Mother of God, which was built later. From the walls of the fortress Khor Virap, a majestic picture opens up - Mount Ararat - the symbol of Nairi country - will proudly rise. Next stop at the ancient cave "BIRDS CAVE". It is located 12 kilometers from Yeghegnadzor on the left bank of the Areni River. The cave consists of 3 halls and has an area of ​​500 m², most of which have not yet been studied. Due to excavations in the cave, metal knives, fruit seeds, remains of grain, ropes, ceramics, clothes, raisins and prunes, dating back to 4200-3500, were found. BC. Here was found the world's oldest leather footwear, which is more than 5,500 years old, a women's skirt attributed to 3900 BC, as well as the oldest winery in the world. Currently, this winery is considered the oldest in the world and dates back to the 4th millennium BC. The caves were not residential, and the consumption of wine for people was a ritual. Further excursion to the winery "Areni". Areni village is located in the Vayots Dzor region. It is famous for various varieties of wines, the production of which has now reached a very large size. Here you can visit some historical monuments, including the Church of the Holy Virgin and, of course, try the famous Areni wine. Return to Yerevan.