Armenia is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It is located in the Caucasus region, between Europe and Asia, and has a diverse landscape of mountains, valleys, forests and lakes. Armenia is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, dating back to the 9th century BC.
It is also the first country to adopt Christianity as its official religion, in the 4th century AD. Armenia has a vibrant and unique culture, influenced by its neighbors and its diaspora. It is famous for its ancient churches and monasteries, its colorful carpets and pottery, its delicious cuisine and wine, and its music and literature. Armenia is a proud and resilient nation that has overcome many challenges and hardships throughout its history.
It is a country that values its traditions and heritage, but also embraces modernity and innovation. Armenia is a place that welcomes visitors with warmth and hospitality, and offers them an unforgettable experience of discovery and adventure.
When to Travel to Armenia
Autumn is the best season to travel to Armenia. From September to November, you can enjoy long, sunny and mild days with beautiful colors in the trees. The weather is ideal for exploring the country's many historical and religious sites, such as the ancient monasteries of Geghard and Tatev. You can also experience the harvest season, when the markets are full of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially apricots, which are considered the national fruit of Armenia.
Summer is also a great time to travel to Armenia, especially if you love outdoor activities. From June to August, the days are warm and dry, with clear blue skies and green landscapes which is the best opportunity for visitors to explore . You can hike in the mountains, go ballooning over the valleys, or enjoy watersports on Lake Sevan, the largest lake in the Caucasus. The average temperature in summer is around 26°C, but it can get much cooler in the higher altitudes.
Spring and winter are less popular seasons to visit Armenia, but they have their own charms. Spring is short and rainy, but it brings out the lushness of nature and the beauty of flowers. Winter is cold and snowy, but it offers opportunities for skiing, ice skating, and admiring the snow-covered scenery. However, some attractions may be closed or inaccessible in these seasons due to weather conditions.
Whatever season you choose to visit Armenia, you will surely find something to suit your interests and preferences. Armenia is a country that has a lot to offer to its visitors, from its ancient history and culture to its modern vibrancy and hospitality.
Festivals and Holidays in Armenia
Armenia is a country rich in culture and traditions, and one of the best ways to experience its vibrant spirit is to attend its festivals and events. Whether you are a fan of jazz, wine, food, or history, there is something for everyone in this ancient land. Here are some of the festivals and events you can enjoy in Armenia:
Yerevan Jazz Day: Every year on April 30, the Cascade Complex in Yerevan hosts a jazz festival that brings together local and international artists. You can listen to live performances, enjoy the views of the city, and celebrate the universal language of music.
Yerevan Wine Days: If you love wine, you don't want to miss this two-day event held on Saryan Street in May. You can taste different varieties of Armenian wine, paired with delicious dishes from famous restaurants. You can also learn about the history and traditions of winemaking in Armenia, and enjoy songs and concerts.
Dolma Festival: Dolma is a national dish of Armenia, made of minced meat wrapped in grape leaves or cabbage. In May, you can visit the Hnaberd village and try different types of dolma, as well as other Armenian specialties. You can also watch folk dances, listen to traditional music, and participate in games and contests.
Syunik Mulberry Festival: Mulberry is a fruit that grows abundantly in Armenia, and it is used to make various products, such as vodka, molasses, jam, and dried fruits. In July, you can go to the Goris Regional Park and sample all kinds of mulberry products, as well as other regional dishes. You can also see how mulberry vodka is distilled, and how mulberry molasses is made.
Vardavar Festival: This is one of the most fun and popular festivals in Armenia, held on July 8. It is a pagan tradition that involves splashing water on each other to celebrate the goddess of water and fertility. You can join the locals and tourists in this water fight, or just watch from a safe distance. It is a great way to cool off from the summer heat and have some fun.
What to See in Armenia
If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable destination, Armenia is a great choice. It is a country with a rich history, culture, and nature that will amaze you with its beauty and diversity. Here are some of the things you can see and do in Armenia:
Explore the pink city of Yerevan, the capital and the largest city of Armenia. Yerevan is a vibrant and modern city with many attractions, such as the Republic Square, the Cascade, the Armenian Genocide Museum, the Vernissage market, and the Blue Mosque.
Visit some of the ancient monasteries that are scattered around the country, often in stunning locations. Some of the most famous ones are Geghard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved out of a solid rock; Noravank, a 13th-century monastery surrounded by red cliffs; Sevanavank, a monastery on a peninsula overlooking Lake Sevan; and Khor Virap, a monastery with a spectacular view of Mount Ararat.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Armenia, from its mountains and forests to its lakes and waterfalls. You can hike, bike, climb, or ski in Mount Aragats, the highest peak in Armenia; visit Shikahogh State Reserve, the second largest forest reserve in Armenia with diverse wildlife and plants; relax by Lake Sevan, the largest lake in Armenia and one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world; or admire the waterfalls in Haghartsin Monastery and Garni Temple.
Try out Armenian cuisine, which is influenced by various cultures and regions. You can taste delicious dishes such as dolma (stuffed grape leaves), khorovats (barbecued meat), lavash (flatbread), harissa (chicken and wheat porridge), and gata (sweet pastry). You can also sample some of the Armenian wines, which have a long tradition and history.
Discover the pagan culture at Garni Temple, the only surviving Greco-Roman temple in Armenia. It was built in the 1st century AD to honor the sun god Mithra, and it features impressive columns and carvings. You can also see the nearby Geghard Monastery, which is partly built into the rock.
Armenia is a country that will surprise you with its charm and hospitality. It has something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature. Don't miss this opportunity to visit one of the most fascinating places in Europe!
