Overview :
Armenia Photos
Armenia
is the oldest Christian state in the world. The landlocked state in the
Caucasus has quite a few sites that testify of its early Christian
origins. This together with the great mountain scenery and some good
wines make it a interesting destination.
Armenia has only acquired its independence from the Soviet Union recently
and the start of the new republic has been a bumpy one. A war with
neighbouring Azerbaijan over Nagorny Karabach being the main problem.
If you fly in your trip will probably start in Yerevan, the capital city.
Culturally and economically it is the most important place in Armenia.
Garni and Geghard are excellent daytrips from the capital.
Echmiadzin is the religious capital of Armenia and is the place of
residence of the leader of the Aremenian Church.
While Alaverdi in the northern province of Lorri is not particularly
interesting, two breathtaking monasteries, Sanahin and Haghpat, and a
basilica in Odzun, all three just above the town, are really worth a
visit. |
Yerevan is the capital of Armenia. It is a very old city, but it has been
scarred quite a bit by history. You will still find it the best place to
start exploring Armenia, and there are many museums and parks in town.
With Yerevan as your base you can easily visit Echmiadzin, the Holy See
of the Armenian Church, the Hellenistic temple of Garni and Geghard
monastery on daytrips.
Compared with the rest of the country, cultural life is great here. There
is a wide choice of restaurants, hotels and bars and there are still
quite a few good orchestras playing in Yerevan. People look very modern
and while sipping an espresso in some of the hipper bars, you could think
you were in San Francisco.
The most important sight in town is probably the Erebuni Fortress, which
dates from the 8th century BC. It is from the same period as the fortress
in Van in East Turkey.
(by
www.world66.com)
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