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This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best one-day hiking tours from Yerevan, Armenia's capital. These private, guided tours are designed for your convenience, typically beginning early in the morning at around 7:30 AM and concluding back in Yerevan by 6:00 PM. I invite you to explore the hiking destination that excites you most and book your adventure. To arrange a tour with Armenian Explorer, simply scroll to the bottom of the page to find my contact information. < Back Best One-Day Hiking Tours from Yerevan This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best one-day hiking tours from Yerevan, Armenia's capital. These private, guided tours are designed for your convenience, typically beginning early in the morning at around 7:30 AM and concluding back in Yerevan by 6:00 PM. I invite you to explore the hiking destination that excites you most and book your adventure. To arrange a tour with Armenian Explorer, simply scroll to the bottom of the page to find my contact information. I’m Suren, a professional hiking guide dedicated to helping travelers discover the hidden gems of Armenia. With years of experience exploring the Armenian highlands, I specialize in creating unforgettable trekking and camping experiences for adventurers of all levels. Whether you are looking for a private hiking tour or a well-coordinated group expedition, I personally lead every journey. For larger groups, I work with a dedicated team of professional guides, drivers, and cooks to ensure a seamless experience. In this article, I will share my knowledge and provide practical advice about the best hikes in Armenia and how to carefully plan your trip. Mount Azhdahak (3597m.) Reaching the highest peak of the Geghama Mountain Range is one of those adventures that stays with you long after you return home. The journey begins in Yerevan, and after an hour’s drive, we reach Geghard village, where a 14-kilometer off-road trail begins—a rocky path that in places requires slowing down, but is full of character. Along the way, you'll encounter flocks of sheep lazily crossing the slopes and eagles circling overhead. The classic hike starts at the foot of Mount Paytasar (3,000 m), with an elevation gain of 600 meters over 5.5 km one way. In cases where tourists are less prepared, I drive all the way to the foot of Mount Azhdahak, from where only a 50-minute hike is needed to reach the summit. The view from the summit of mount Azhdahak The reward for the climb is Azhdahak’s crown jewel: a crystal-clear crater lake perched at over 3,500 meters above sea level. In summer, its icy waters tempt the brave to take a plunge. From the edge of Azhdahak crater, dramatic, almost apocalyptic landscapes open up before you. This is the very place where, millions of years ago, an asteroid struck, leaving behind the distinctive crater you see today. On a clear day, Lake Sevan shimmers on the horizon, while Dragon Lake and Akna Lake complete the unforgettable panorama. I drove all the way to the foot of Mount Azhdahak, from where only a 50-minute hike is needed to reach the summit! Notice the layer of dust on the car after crossing the rugged terrain. The Geghama Mountains are rich in petroglyphs and vishapakars (dragon-stones), megalithic marvels that reflect Armenia’s prehistoric architecture, craftsmanship, and traditions. Dragon-stones, or vishaps, are enigmatic monoliths found near high-altitude springs and lakes, believed to be connected with ancient water worship. Dating back thousands of years, these monuments are among the oldest in Armenia, offering unique insights into the country's earliest human activity and symbolic world. The Geghama Mountains are home to thousands of petroglyphs — rock carvings that serve as Armenia’s earliest “written” monuments. They depict hunting scenes, daily life, wild and domestic animals, as well as celestial bodies like the Sun, Moon, and constellations. Some even show natural phenomena such as lightning. Among the most common figures is the bezoar goat, once widespread in Armenia’s highlands and key to early goat and sheep domestication. Particularly striking are the lifelike deer carvings, noted for their artistic quality, and depictions of now-extinct fauna such as the elk. These images are not only art but also valuable records of Armenia’s prehistoric environment and culture. For more information about the hike to mount Azhdahak check out this tour itinerary! Mount Aragats Mount Aragats is the highest mountain in Armenia, with four distinct summits named after their geographical positions: North, South, East, and West. The southern summit (3,888 m) is the most popular choice for hikers, mainly because it’s the easiest to reach In just 1 hour and 10 minutes from Yerevan, you can drive up to Lake Kari at 3,200 meters — the classic starting point for the climb. From here, it’s roughly 5.5 km to the top of the southern peak. The 4 summits of mount Aragats! It's up to you to decide which summit to conquer! While Lake Kari (3200m) is a convenient and budget-friendly starting point for all four summits, those aiming for the more challenging northern and eastern peaks often prefer to start from Gegharot Waterfall (3000m). This route shortens the hiking distance, but reaching the waterfall requires a high-clearance vehicle, unlike Lake Kari, which is accessible even by a regular sedan. We are crossing the last difficult part of Northern Aragats to reach the summit (4090m) If you’re fit and want to push your limits, it’s possible to conquer two summits in a single day — for example, the Southern (3888m) and Western (3995m) peaks. Another great option is to split the adventure over two days: start from Lake Kari, climb the Southern and Western summits, then spend the night camping inside Aragats’ massive crater. The next morning, continue with the Northern (4090m) and Eastern (3908m) peaks, and finally descend to Gegharot Waterfall (3000m), where an off-road vehicle will be waiting. For more information about the hike to mount Aragats (in this itinerary you will learn about the details on how to conquer all 4 summits) check out this tour itinerary! Mount Artanish (2460m.) Located on Artanish Peninsula on the eastern shore of lake Sevan mount Artanish is perfect for hiking during all 4 seasons of the year. It is the only peak from which the entire lake Sevan can be seen. With an altitude of 2460 meters the mountain offers a moderate hiking difficulty. You will need 5km to get to the summit from the starting point. For more details about this hike check out the itinerary. Mount Dimats (2360m) This destination is another must go hike in Armenia. Up to the summit one can get via off-road car but here is the case. During my tours I have started driving up to Armenia’s highest Shaghot waterfall and start the hike from there, instead of starting from the Teghut village, since I have noticed that the 8.5 km one way is too exhausting for hikers. An alternative can be driving up to Dimats mountain and conquering mount Sartsapat instead, rewarding ourselves both with an off-road adventure as well as a pleasant hike. For more information check out this itinerary. Aparan Reservoir Loop Trail Located just an hour’s drive from Yerevan, the Aparan Reservoir offers a memorable hike through dense forests and alpine meadows. Suitable in all seasons, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a pleasant outdoor stroll. The trail is divided into two loops: the Big Loop and the Small Loop, though you can also combine them for a longer hike. The Big Loop is slightly more challenging, with some ascents, while the Small Loop is easier. Both trails wind through beautiful pine forests and vibrant alpine meadows. As the name suggests, the trail is a loop-type path. Along the way, hikers can visit the 4th-century St. Poghos-Petros Basilica, which partially submerges under water for 3–4 months each year, adding a unique historical element to the scenic journey. For more information check out the full itinerary! Smbataberd fortress and Tsaghats Kar monastic complex For hikers interested in historical sites, Smbataberd Fortress is a must-visit destination. Perched atop a mountain, the fortress offers breathtaking views of Yeghegis village and the surrounding mountains. Along the trail, you’ll also encounter the Tsaghats Kar Monastic Complex and its khachkars, before finishing in Yeghegis village near the 14th-century Zorats Church. Smbataberd is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Armenia, making it both a scenic and culturally rich highlight of the hike. The hike from Yeghegis Village to Smbataberd Fortress covers about 2.5 km and takes roughly one hour. From the fortress, the trail descends and then climbs again toward the Tsaghats Kar Monastic Complex, a 3.5 km stretch that takes approximately 1.5 hours. Tsaghats Kar consists of two groups of structures, separated by about 200 meters (656 feet), and the site leaves a lasting impression on visitors. The upper complex, in particular, carries a mysterious aura that captivates hikers. After exploring Tsaghats Kar, the trail continues back down toward Yeghegis Village, leading to Zorats Church, located about 3.5 km away. This marks the end of the route. For more information check out the full itinerary. Lastiver Trail Another wonderful hiking destination is the Lastiver caves and cascades, a perfect year-round adventure. The trail stretches 3.5 km one way along the forested banks of the Khachaghbyur River. Lastiver gained wider recognition in the early 2000s when ecotourism enthusiasts began organizing regular trips to this magical spot. It is home to a two-story cave perched on the steep slope of a canyon near the river’s majestic gorge. Surrounded by towering trees, rugged cliffs, and the soothing roar of the river, the area feels like stepping into a fairy tale. In the 1970s, Soviet-Armenian sculptor Benik Petrosyan decorated the cave walls with striking bas-reliefs, giving it an even more mysterious aura. Many visitors mistakenly believe the carvings date back to ancient times, which only deepens the sense of wonder. At the bottom of the gorge, a stunning waterfall completes the landscape, blending naturally into Lastiver’s rich ecosystem. The pristine environment makes it a beloved destination for ecotourists and nature lovers alike. For those seeking more from this hike, it is highly recommended to continue on to Okon Monastery, built in 1863. In front of the monastery stands a khachkar (cross-stone) dating back to the 12th–13th centuries. For more information check out the full itinerary. Note: All these private tours are customizable and can be combined with both sightseeing and camping tours. Contact Armenian Explorer via WhatsApp or Telegram at +374 55677868, and we will already customize the upcoming tour together. 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A visit to this culture house promises a journey into the Soviet past, revealing the charm of old movie projectors, vintage posters, a captivating fresco, and exquisite stage curtains! Join my guided tours for unforgettable impressions. < Back A Soviet Culture House Frozen in Time A visit to this culture house promises a journey into the Soviet past, revealing the charm of old movie projectors, vintage posters, a captivating fresco, and exquisite stage curtains! Join my guided tours for unforgettable impressions. Although designed by the renowned Armenian architect Rafael Israelyan, this culture house didn't leave a strong impression from the outside. However, the interior proved to be fascinating. While it continues to host activities such as kids' dancing classes, it undoubtedly requires urgent reconstruction. Anahit, a woman living nearby and working in there, guided us through the venue. This part of the culture house serves as a gym for local athletes... Upon entering, a massive fresco caught my attention, depicting a war scene from Armenian history. The majestic artwork left a lasting impression. On the way to the projector room, a big painting of Lenin was lying on the floor—an appreciated nod to preserving history. Soviet movie projectors can still be found in large quantities in culture houses... The projector room housed two vintage projectors and adorned with attractive movie posters from the Soviet past. However, the highlight was undoubtedly the concert hall, featuring impressive stage curtains. Anahit enthusiastically opened them, allowing me to capture photos one by one. There is a popular dance style 'Dance of Tulips' in Armenia! This curtain is based on it! She mentioned a large curtain depicting Lenin, though our attempt to unveil it proved unsuccessful. In conclusion, this site is a delightful visit, offering excellent opportunities for urbex photography. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . Project Gallery You May Also Like Inside the Eerie Corridors of an Abandoned Russian Fortress Soviet Bus Stops in Armenia Urbex Tours in Armenia – Photo Gallery The 53 cm Schmidt Telescope at Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory Exploring an Abandoned Rest House with Impressive Bas-Reliefs A Spaceship on Earth: The Soviet-Armenian Echo of the Futuro House Destroyed Soviet Mosaics and Frescoes in Armenia The Chayka Monument That Angered Nikita Khrushchev During His 1961 Visit to Armenia Previous Next

Explore Fridtjof Nansen's compassionate journey in 1925 through post-World War I and post-Genocide Armenia. Discover his dedication to Armenian refugees, canal-building initiatives, and the unique encounters with the country's culture. Join Nansen on this humanitarian odyssey documented in "Gjennern Armenia," shedding light on his profound impact on Armenian history and society. < Back Polar Explorer Fridtjof Nansen’s Visit to Armenia Explore Fridtjof Nansen's compassionate journey in 1925 through post-World War I and post-Genocide Armenia. Discover his dedication to Armenian refugees, canal-building initiatives, and the unique encounters with the country's culture. Join Nansen on this humanitarian odyssey documented in "Gjennern Armenia," shedding light on his profound impact on Armenian history and society. Being a great humanist Norwegian polar explorer, Fridtjof Nansen made efforts to help the people left homeless, alienated and starving as a result of the First World War. The Armenian people, who were on the verge of annihilation as a result of the 1915 Genocide, were always in the center of his attention. In 1924, Nansen actively addressed Armenian refugee issues, advocating for a just resolution, improving emigrants' conditions, facilitating their return, and initiating canal projects to cultivate arid lands. Nansen's impactful efforts granted "Nansen passports" to thousands, easing their plight. Nansen during his travels in Armenia. Notice the carpet on which he is sitting! At 7 o'clock on June 16, 1925, Nansen and his commission left Tiflis by train for Armenia. During the night, they traversed the Lori region, known for its forested mountains and gorges, and the next morning, they encountered a different landscape. Unlike Lori, the Aragatsotn region lacks forested areas. On that occasion, he wrote: "The land is barren, without trees; there is no green anywhere, no wooded hill in sight. Is this dry, yellowish land supposed to be cultivated for refugees? The scene in front of my window did not leave an encouraging impression." On June 17, 1925, a warm welcome awaited Nansen and his delegation at Yerevan station. On June 18, the Nansen commission leaves for Sardarapat region. At that time, it was very important to create an irrigation system for the Sardarapat field and make it a fertile land. They visited Hoktemberyan's cotton factory and expressed their satisfaction about ii. Nansen in Armenia Then moved to the Armenian-Turkish border, explored the shores of Araks river, visited Margara and other Armenian villages. Afterwards, the guests visited the ruins of Armavir, one of the ancient capitals of Armenia, surrounded by cotton fields. A young woman working there gave Nansen a cotton cocoon, of which Nansen wrote: "It was a welcome wish according to the custom of the country, so natural, simple and touching. I held that tender cotton for a long time.'' The guests then visited the village of Bambakashat, whose inhabitants welcomed them with salt and bread, milk and fruits. The same day in the evening, the guests return to Yerevan and are invited to a dinner in the city's summer park, where they not only enjoy delicious Armenian food and fruits, but also listen to Armenian music, for which Nansen personally thanks choir leader K. Shahnazaryan. Later, he wrote in his travel notes: "The food and Armenian wine are good, but there is no mention of fruits. At that time, the apricots had started to ripen. Armenia itself is the motherland of apricots, the apricots here are so big and juicy that I have never seen such anywhere." After the Armenian Genocide, thousands of children became orphans. They found shelters in various parts of the world, including Eastern Armenia. In this photo, you can see Nansen having lunch with orphans in Leninakan (Gyumri). After the sessions held the next day, the guests visit the Museum of the History of Armenia, and the knowledge gained on the skeletons and skulls studied there, Nansen later uses in his work written about Armenians. After that, the guests were led to Yerevan State University, where a warm reception was organized. A friendly party is organized in the courtyard of the university, which takes place in a warm and businesslike atmosphere. Nansen is awarded the title of honorary doctor and honorary member of the scientific council of Yerevan State University. After visiting the university, the guests went to the Zangvi coast and saw the Yerevan fortress. On June 20, Nansen's delegation continues to explore the Sardarapat Plain, approaching Araks river and discussing the possibility of building a canal. They observe the Surmalu Plateau, which was once covered with vineyards, gardens, and fields, but has now risen to a bare plain. In the evening, they come to the Hoktemberyan station to take the train to Leninakan. But it turns out that their special carriage has to be attached to the train quite late. Therefore, as they spend most of the night there, Nansen prefers lying in the open air on a tarpaulin under a starry sky, rather than sleeping in a hot compartment coach. On June 21, Nansen and his companions were already in Leninakan, where they felt the breath of new life and participated in the opening of the Shirak canal, which turned into a popular celebration. When the water flowed, Nansen threw his broad-brimmed hat into the water as a sign of joy and a bright vision of the future. Returning to the city, they attend a dinner. Nansen also visits the newly established textile factory in Leninakan, where a warm welcome is organized and he himself speaks with words of thanks and good wishes. Bust of Fridtjof Nansen in Yerevan (sculptor Garegin Davtyan). Armenia will never forget how Nansen helped us! To honor him in Armenia there are streets and parks named after him, as well as a museum dedicated to Nansen and statues commemorating his contributions. On the morning of June 24, they leave for Yerevan, through the northern regions of Armenia. They were in Lori, specifically in Stepanavan, Gharakilisa (now Vanadzor) and then went to Dilijan, where they visited the Republican Sanatorium. After spending the night in Dilijan, the guests take the route to Sevan, the unique beauty of which enchants Nansen. On the banks of the Sevan River, they eat royal trout or, as Nansen called it, "the jewel of the Armenian feast." Then they move to Yerevan. On June 27, Nansen's commission was in Kanaker, Garni, Dvin, banks of Zangvi river, Ghrer, Sevjur. On June 28, the guests visited Etchmiadzin, got acquainted with its architectural monuments and were received by the Catholicos. They get to know the manuscripts in the local bookstores. Nansen during his travels in Armenia Nansen was particularly fascinated by the structure of the cathedral and the church of Hripsime, with the domes rising on the quadrangle. On June 29, they visited the Yerevan hydroelectric power station, which was a unique structure and left a great impression. Then they entered "Ararat" wine factory and tasted Armenian drinks. "Everyone was nice... red wine... sherry... madera... port wine... At the end, I was given muscat... I had never drunk such wonderful wine," he wrote. In the evening of the same day, a government dinner is organized in honor of the guests on the bank of Zangvi. In addition to traveling through Armenia, Nansen also participates in many meetings, during which important issues were discussed. He also visits the studio of Martiros Saryan, where he gets acquainted with the works of the great artist. Saryan immortalized that meeting with two portraits of Nansen, which are now kept in Saryan's museum. On July 1, a farewell concert will be held at the city theater, followed by a dinner. On July 2, 1925, statesmen, accompanied by a large crowd, bid farewell to the great philanthropist from the Yerevan railway station. Nansen writes: "Yerevan, Zangvi valley, beautiful gardens were disappearing behind us. In the south, Ararat stood cloudless in all its height, and its broad snow-covered peak was shining under the light of the sun." Nansen described his trip to Armenia in the book "Gjennern Armenia" ("Through Armenia") published in 1927. Two years later, another book of his, also related to the 1925 trip, "Gjennern Kaukasus til Volga" ("Through the Caucasus to the Volga") was published. Nansen did not give up caring for the Armenian people until the end of his life. In 1928, he toured America, during which he gave fund-raising lectures for the benefit of Armenians. 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This review reflects my personal experience and thoughts on using the Naturehike Cloud Up 2-person lightweight backpacking tent and is entirely independent and unbiased. < Back Review of Naturehike Cloud Up 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent This review reflects my personal experience and thoughts on using the Naturehike Cloud Up 2-person lightweight backpacking tent and is entirely independent and unbiased. For my hikes in Armenia, I was searching for a lightweight tent and chose this model, even though my preferred yellow color was unavailable, so I went with white. I especially appreciated that it includes a footprint, which adds an extra protective layer. The unique "hunchback" design is eye-catching, and the tent is easy to set up thanks to well designed structure and maybe also effective the non-slip hooks. The red tent pegs are another thoughtful touch, as they’re easy to spot against green vegetation. With 11 pegs included, I always make sure they’re all accounted for after setup. Camping in my Naturehike tent at the historic Kayan Fortress site Previously, I used budget tents from eBay, but the Naturehike tent is on a different level in terms of quality and lightness. During light rain, it kept me dry and comfortable inside. Built for three-season use, the tent material feels both high-quality and lightweight, with good ventilation overall. One downside for me is the tent’s width. At 125 cm, it feels narrow for two people, especially given my size (190 cm tall and 90 kg). For one person, it’s spacious, but for two, it’s a bit tight. Still, for extreme conditions, even a snug tent is a welcome shelter. Overall, I’m very satisfied with this tent, though I’ll update my impressions as I continue to use it. Here is a description of the tent provided by Naturehike: The Naturehike Cloud Up 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is the ideal choice for lightweight backpacking adventures. This ultralight, free-standing tent is made from durable 20D nylon with a silicone coating, ensuring superior waterproof and windproof performance. With its easy setup design, the tent can be assembled in under two minutes, making it perfect for camping, hiking, and bikepacking. The spacious interior and vestibule offer ample room for two people, ensuring a comfortable and dry night's sleep in any weather. The inner layer of the tent Key Features: Easy Setup: Freestanding design with aluminum alloy poles, assembles in under two minutes. Waterproof & Windproof : PU 4000 mm waterproof 20D nylon with silicone coating, taped seams, and durable 7001 aluminum alloy poles. Spacious Interior: Tent size 82.7 x 49.2 x 41.3 in | 210 × 125 × 105 cm with a front door and vestibule for extra storage. Ultralight: Weighs only 3.97 lb | 1.8 kg and packs down to 17.7 x 4.7 x 4.7 in | 45 × 13 × 13 cm, fitting easily into your backpack. Double Layer Design: Provides excellent ventilation and can be used separately as a sun shelter. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk

Explore the extraordinary life of Max Reisch, a pioneering travel writer and adventurer. From motorcycle odysseys across Africa and India in the 1930s to circumnavigating the globe in a Steyr 100, Reisch's legacy, filled with daring exploits, inspires wanderlust and exploration. < Back Max Reisch - Pioneering the First Overland Journey from Europe to India Explore the extraordinary life of Max Reisch, a pioneering travel writer and adventurer. From motorcycle odysseys across Africa and India in the 1930s to circumnavigating the globe in a Steyr 100, Reisch's legacy, filled with daring exploits, inspires wanderlust and exploration. Max Reisch, born on October 2, 1912, in Kufstein, Austria, left an indelible mark as a prominent travel writer, geographer, journalist, and oriental expert. His life's journey was characterized by an insatiable thirst for exploration and a relentless pursuit of adventure. Max Reisch's early life saw him attending school in Bozen and Kufstein, followed by studies in architecture and world trade in Vienna. In his youth, Max was an avid skier, motorsport athlete and mountaineer, foreshadowing the daring spirit that would define his future expeditions. 1932: To Africa with Motorcycle and Tent In the early 1930s, Max Reisch studied in Vienna. During the summer break of 1932, he embarked on an adventurous journey to North Africa with Alfred Schricker from Nuremberg. Riding a Puch 250 cm³ motorcycle, built in 1929, they traveled from Vienna via Spain, covering a route from west to east, Algiers to Tripoli. The journey included a detour into the Sahara. After a ship voyage from Tripoli to Syracuse on Sicily and then overland to Austria, they completed this remarkable expedition. Forging a path through the desert! Image by Herbert Tichy 1933: To India by Motorcycle The following year, in 1933, Max Reisch, again on the Puch-Type 250, with co-driver Herbert Tichy, embarked on another groundbreaking journey. The rear wheel was still without suspension. In addition to the two people, around 70 kg of equipment, spare parts, petrol and oil were also carried. Since this trip was again a kind of test ride as proof of the stability of the motorcycles of the time (like the Sahara trip), all essential parts of the machine were sealed. Covering 13,000 km over several months, they achieved the remarkable feat of being the first to reach India overland by motorcycle. The experiences of this journey were vividly documented in Max Reisch's book "Indien, lockende Ferne; 13,000 km Pionierfahrt mit Herbert Tichy nach Indien" ("India, tempting distances; 13,000 km pioneering journey with Herbert Tichy to India") published by Ulstein Verlag. In the 1970s he traveled on this route again - albeit with modern means of transport, comparing the conditions of the 1970s with his earlier journey, documenting the changes in his book "Karawanenstraßen Asiens" ("Caravan Roads of Asia"). Max Reisch on his 1932 Puch 250SL en route to India. Image by Herbert Tichy 1935-1936: Around the world in a Steyr 100 It was a special car, this Steyr 100 with 1,380 cm³ and 32 hp, built in 1934, and a special body made of sheet aluminum. Because on September 22, 1934, this vehicle was the first vehicle to drive, or rather rumble, over the almost completed Großglockner High Alpine Road summit section. At the wheel was the Salzburg state governor Dr. Franz Rehrl and next to him the road planner and executive engineer, Franz Friedrich Wallack. And it was with this vehicle, accompanied by Helmut Hahmann, technician and cameraman, that Reisch set off from Vienna on April 22, 1935 (in a later edition of the book, 1983, Max Reisch writes April 23 as the day of departure). The goal was - Vienna again, but this time it was supposed to go around the world. The journey went through the Middle East, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Burma, Vietnam to China. They embarked in Shanghai and went first to Japan and from its eastern port of Yokohama on to North America, across the United States of America from Seattle via San Francisco to New York. The “Bremen” took the two of them and their car to Bremerhaven and from there they went to Vienna. Of course, Reisch also wrote a book about this trip: Mann und 32 PS, im Auto um die Erde "2 men and 32 horsepower, around the world in a car" Max Reisch's book cover Max Reisch's legacy extends beyond his expeditions. An avid traveler, author, and public speaker, he delivered over 700 lectures in 50 years, inspiring countless individuals. He gave his first slide lecture in the auditorium of the University of Vienna in 1934, and his last lecture in 1984 in his beloved hometown of Kufstein, true to his motto: "There are many continents and countries, but there is only one home." Max Reisch passed away on January 18, 1985, at the age of 72, leaving behind a rich tapestry of adventures and a legacy that continues to inspire wanderlust and exploration. He himself said: "I am satisfied because I have reached the age of 102. The years in the desert count twice!" 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This brief article is an excerpt from Thomas Wright's book, "The Travels of Marco Polo The Venetian." In the chapters presented below, Marco Polo shares insights about Armenia. The author includes useful footnotes that clarify many archaic names of Armenian locations. < Back Marco Polo about Armenia This brief article is an excerpt from Thomas Wright's book, "The Travels of Marco Polo The Venetian." In the chapters presented below, Marco Polo shares insights about Armenia. The author includes useful footnotes that clarify many archaic names of Armenian locations. Marco Polo, a renowned Venetian merchant and explorer of the 13th century, embarked on a journey from Europe to Asia. Spending 17 years in China, he served as an envoy and diplomat for Kublai Khan, the Mongol emperor. Polo documented his extensive travels in a book titled "The Travels of Marco Polo," offering detailed accounts of his experiences, observations, and insights into the culture, geography, politics, and economy of China and other lands. His influential work inspired subsequent travelers and explorers, including Christopher Columbus. Intrigued by Polo's perspective on Armenia, this blog post features an extract from his book (The Travels Of Marco Polo The Venetian by Thomas Wright). Mosaic of Marco Polo displayed in the Palazzo Doria-Tursi, Genoa, Italy Chapter II. Of Armenia Minor—Of the Port of Laiassus—And of the Boundaries of the Province. IN commencing the description of the countries which Marco Polo visited in Asia, and of things worthy of notice which he observed therein, it is proper to mention that we are to distinguish two Armenias, the Lesser and the Greater. 1 The king of the Lesser Armenia dwells in a city called Sebastoz, 2 and rules his dominions with strict regard to justice. The towns, fortified places, and castles are numerous. There is abundance of all necessaries of life, as well as of those things which contribute to its comfort. Game, both of beasts and birds, is in plenty. It must be said, however, that the air of the country is not remarkably healthy. In former times its gentry were esteemed expert and brave soldiers; but at the present day they are great drinkers, pusillanimous, and worthless. On the sea−coast there is a city named Laiassus, 3 a place of considerable traffic. Its port is frequented by merchants from Venice, Genoa, and many other places, who trade in spiceries and drugs of different sorts, manufactures of silk and of wool, and other rich commodities. Those persons who design to travel into the interior of the Levant, 4 usually proceed in the first instance to this port of Laiassus. The boundaries of the Lesser Armenia are, on the south, the Land of Promise, now occupied by the Saracens; 5 on the north, Karamania, inhabited by Turkomans; towards the north−east lie the cities of Kaisariah, Sevasta, 6 and many others subject to the Tartars; and on the western side it is bounded by the sea, which extends to the shores of Christendom. 1 This distinction of the Armenias into the Greater and the Lesser, is conformable to what we find in Ptolemy and the geographers of the middle ages; although other divisions have taken place since that part of Asia has been subject to the Ottoman empire. The Les en Armenia is defined by Büsching as comprehending that part of Cappadocia and Cilicia which lies along the western side of the Greater Armenia, and also on the western side of the Euphrates. That in the days of Haiton it extended south of Taurus, and included Cilicia (campestris), which was not the case in more ancient times, we have the unexceptionable authority of that historian. 2 As it appears from the passage quoted in the preceding note, as well as from other authorities, that Sîs was the capital of the Lesser Armenia during the reigns of the Leons and Haitons, we are led to suppose the Sebastoz here mentioned to have been the ancient name of that city, or of one that stood on the same site. It is obvious, indeed, from the geography of Ptolemy, that there were many places in Asia Minor that bore the names of Sebastia, Sebaste, and Sebastopolis (besides one in Syria), and in his enumeration of the towns of Cilicia, we find a Sebaste, to which, in the Latin translation, published at Venice in 1562, the epithet of “augusta” is annexed. Upon the foundations of this, Leon I. (from whom the country is called by the Arabians, Belad Leon, as well as Belad Sîs), may have built the modern city, and the Greek name may have been still prevalent. We are told, however, that the city which preceded Sis, as the capital of Armenia Minor, was named Messis, Massis, or Massissa, the ancient Mopsuestia, and it must be confessed that if authority was not in opposition to conjecture, the sound of these names might lead us to suppose that the modern name was only an abbreviation of Mes−sis, and Sebastoz a substitution for Mopsueste. In a subsequent part of the chapter the city of Sevasta or Sevaste, the modern Siwas or Sivas, is spoken of under circumstances that appear to distinguish it entirely from the Armenian capital; having been recently conquered by the Moghuls from the Seljuk princes. 3 Lajazzo, or Aïas, is situated in a low, morassy country, formed by the alluvion of the two rivers Sihon and Jihon (of Cilicia), and (as observed to me by Major Rennell) at the present mouth of the latter. Its trade has been transferred to Alexandretta or Scanderoon, on the opposite or Syrian side of the gulf. 4 Levant is a translation of the word Anatolia or Anadoli, from the Greek “ortus, oriens,” signifying the country that lies eastward from Greece. As the name of a region therefore it should be equivalent to Natolia, in its more extensive acceptation; and it is evident that our author employs it to denote Asia Minor. Smyrna is at present esteemed the principal port in the Levant, and the term seems to be now confined to the sea−coast and to mercantile usage. 5 For the Land of Promise, or Palestine, which extends no further to the north than Tyre, is here to be understood Syria, or that part of it called Cælo−Syria, which borders on Cilicia or the southern part of Armenia Minor. As the more general denomination of Syria includes Palestine, and the latter name was, in the time of the Crusades, more familiar to Europeans than the former, it is not surprising that they should sometimes be confounded. The Saracens here spoken of were the subjects of the Mameluk sultans or soldans of Egypt, who recovered from the Christian powers in Syria, what the princes of the family of Saladin, or of the Ayubite dynasty, had lost. In other parts of the work the term is employed indiscriminately with that of Mahometan. 6 The Turkomans of Karamania were a race of Tartars settled in Asia Minor, under the government of the Seljuk princes, of whom an account will be found in the following note. Kaisariah or Cæsarea, and Sevasta or Sebaste, the Sebastopolis Cappadociæ of Ptolemy and Siwas or Sivas of the present day, were cities belonging to the same dynasty, that had been conquered by the Moghuls in the year 1242. Chapter III. Of the Province called Turkomania, where are the Cities of Kogni, Kaisariah, and Sevasta, and of its Commerce. THE inhabitants of Turkomania 1 may be distinguished into three classes. The Turkomans, who reverence Mahomet and follow his law, are a rude people, and dull of intellect. They dwell amongst the mountains and in places difficult of access, where their object is to find good pasture for their cattle, as they live entirely upon animal food. There is here an excellent breed of horses which has the appellation of Turki, and fine mules which are sold at high prices. 2 The other classes are Greeks and Armenians, who reside in the cities and fortified places, and gain their living by commerce and manufacture. The best and handsomest carpets in the world are wrought here, and also silks of crimson and other rich colours. 3 Amongst its cities are those of Kogni, Kaisariah, and Sevasta, in which last Saint Blaise obtained the glorious crown of martyrdom. 4 They are all subject to the great khan, emperor of the Oriental Tartars, who appoints governors to them. 5 We shall now speak of the Greater Armenia. 1 By Turkomania we are to understand, generally, the possessions of the great Seljuk dynasty in Asia Minor, extending from Cilicia and Pamphylia, in the south, to the shores of the Euxine sea, and from Pisidia and Mysia, in the west, to the borders of Armenia Minor; including the greater part of Phrygia and Cappadocia, together with Pontus, and particularly the modern provinces of Karamania and Rumiyah, or the country of Rûm. Of the former of these, the capital. was Iconium, corrupted by the oriental writers to Kuniyah, and by those of the Crusades to Kogni; of the latter, Sebaste or Sebastopolis, corrupted to Siwas or Sivas. The chief from whom the dynasty of Seljuks derived its appellation, was by birth a Turkoman, of Turkistan, on the north−eastern side of the river Sihon or Jaxartes, but in the service of a prince of Khozar, on the Wolga, from which he fled and pursued his fortune in Transoxiana; as did some of his family in Khorasan. Having acquired great celebrity, they were at length enabled, by the means of numerous tribes of Turkomans who joined their standard, to establish a sovereignty, or, in point of extent, an empire, the principal seat of which was in Persia. Another branch, about the year 1080, wrested the fine provinces of Asia Minor from the Greek emperors, and formed the kingdom of which we are now speaking. Through its territory the Christian princes repeatedly forced their way in their progress to the Holy Land, and it is computed by historians that not fewer than six hundred thousand men perished in this preliminary warfare. At length the power of the Seljuks yielded to the overwhelming influence of the house of Jengiz−khan, and in our author's time they were reduced to insignificance; but from their ruins sprang the empire of the Ottomans, the founder of which had been in the service of one of the last sultans of Iconium. 2 The pastoral habits of the Turkoman Tartars are preserved to this day, even in Asia Minor, and the distinction of their tribes subsists also. The Turki breed of horses is esteemed throughout the East, for spirit and hardiness. 3 “Et ibi fiunt soriani et tapeti pulchriores de mundo et pulchrioris coloris" are the words of the Latin text. 4 “Blaise, bishop of Sebasta, in Cappadocia, in the second and third centuries,” says the Biographical Dictionary, “suffered death under Diocletian, by decapitation, after being whipped and having his flesh torn with iron combsIt is difficult to say how the invention (of wool combing) came to be attributed to him; but it had probably no better origin than the circumstance of his being tortured with the instruments used in the combing of wool.” 5 It is the family of Hulagu, and the tribes who followed his standard from the north, whom our author always designates by the name of Oriental Tartars, to distinguish them from the descendants of Batu, who settled near the Wolga, on the north−western side of the Caspian, and extended their conquests towards Europe; whilst the former entered Persia from the Eastern quarter, by the way of Transexiana and Khorasan. Chapter IV. Of Armenia Major, in which are the Cities of Arzingan, Argiron, and Darziz—Of the Castle of Paipurth—Of the Mountain where the Ark of Noah rested—Of the Boundaries of the Province—And of a remarkable Fountain of Oil. ARMENIA Major is an extensive province, at the entrance of which is a city named Arzingan, 1 where there is a manufacture of very fine cotton cloth called bombazines, 2 as well as of many other curious fabrics, which it would be tedious to enumerate. It possesses the handsomest and most excellent baths of warm water, issuing from the earth, that are anywhere to be found. 3 Its inhabitants are for the most part native Armenians, but under the dominion of the Tartars. In this province there are many cities, but Arzingan is the principal, and the seat of an archbishop; and the next in consequence are Argiron 4 and Darziz. 5 It is very extensive, and, in the summer season, the station of a part of the army of the Eastern Tartars, on account of the good pasture it affords for their cattle; but on the approach of winter they are obliged to change their quarters, the fall of snow being so very deep that the horses could not find subsistence, and for the sake of warmth and fodder they proceed to the southward. Within a castle named Paipurth, 6 which you meet with in going from Trebisond to Tauris, there is a rich mine of silver. 7 In the central part of Armenia stands an exceedingly large and high mountain, upon which, it is said, the ark of Noah rested, and for this reason it is termed the mountain of the ark. 8 The circuit of its base cannot be compassed in less than two days. The ascent is impracticable on account of the snow towards the summit, which never melts, but goes on increasing by each successive fall. In the lower region, however, near the plain, the melting of the snow fertilizes the ground, and occasions such an abundant vegetation, that all the cattle which collect there in summer from the neighbouring country, meet with a never−failing supply. 9 Bordering upon Armenia, to the south−west, are the districts of Mosul and Maredin, which shall be described hereafter, and many others too numerous to particularize. To the north lies Zorzania, near the confines of which there is a fountain of oil which discharges so great a quantity as to furnish loading for many camels. 10 The use made of it is not for the purpose of food, but as an unguent for the cure of cutaneous distempers in men and cattle, as well as other complaints; and it is also good for burning. In the neighbouring country no other is used in their lamps, and people come from distant parts to procure it. 1 Arzengân, or, as written by the Arabians, who have not the Persian g, Arzenjân, is a city near the frontier of Rumiyah, but just within the limits of Armenia Major. “Cette ville,” says D'Herbelot, “appartient plutôt à l'Arménie, et fut prise par les Mogols ou Tartares l an 640 de l'Hégire, de J. C. 1242, après la défaite de Kaikhosrou, fils d'Aladin le Selgiucide, aussi bien que les villes de Sébaste et de Césarée.” By an oriental geographer it is said to be, “Oppidum celeberrimum, elegans, amænum, copiosum bonis rebus, incolisque: pertinens ad Armeniam: inter Rumæas provincias et Chalatam situm, haud procul Arzerroumo: esseque incolas ejus maixmam partem Armenios” Alberti Schultens Index Geographicus in Vitam Saladini. Josaphat Barbaro, a Venetian, who travelled into Persia, in the fifteenth century, speaks of Arsengan as a place that had formerly been of consequence, but was then mostly in ruins. 2 The name of a species of cloth which I have here translated “bombazine,” is in the Italian of Ramusio, “bochassini di bambagio,” and in the Latin versions “buchiranus, buchyramis, and bucaramus.” Its substance or texture is not clearly explained in our dictionaries. That of Cotgrave, printed in 1611, defines “boccasin,” to be “a kind of fine buckeram, that hath a resemblance of taffata, and is much used for lining; also the stuffe callimanco.” But this, it is evident, cannot apply to a manufacture of bombagio or cotton; and the Vocabolario della Crusca, as well as the Glossary of Du Cange, speak of “bucherame bianchissima,” and “bucherame bambagino,” and both of them quote our author for the use of the word. All the examples convey the idea of fine, white, and soft cotton cloth; the reverse of what is now called buckram. The early Latin text speaks of boccorame and bambace as two distinct things. 3 Natural warm baths are found in many parts of Asia Minor, and particularly near Ancyra, the modern Angora or Anguri, which are still much frequented. Their situation is denoted by the word Thermæ, in Rennell's map explanatory of the Retreat of the Ten thousand. They are also spoken of at Teflis in Georgia; The Travels of Marco Polo, the Venetian 35 but of their existence at Arzengan I have not been able to find notice in the works of the Eastern geographers. 4 Argiron, or, in the Latin versions, Argyron, is a corruption of Arzerrûm, Erzerûm, or Arzen er−rûm, a distinctive name given to a city called Arzen, as being the last strong place, in that direction, belonging to the Greek empire. “Arzerrûm,” says Abulfeda, “est extremus finis regionum Rumæorum ab oriente. In ejus orientali et septentrionali latere est fons Euphratis.” 5 Darziz, which in the Basle edition is Darzirim, in the older Latin, Arziu, and in the Italian epitomes, Arciri and Arziri, is the town now called Arjîs, situated on the border of the Lake Van, anciently named Arsissa palus. “Argish,” says Macdonald Kinneir, “is a town containing six thousand inhabitants, situated on the north−west side of the lake, three days' journey from Van. There are four islands in the lake, on one of which is an Armenian monastery, and three hundred priests.” Memoir of the Persian Empire, pp. 328, 329. These places, it may be observed, lay in our author's returning route, from Tauris to Trebisond. 6 Paipurth, the Baiburt of D' Anville's and Rennell's maps, is situated among the mountains, in a northerly direction from Arzerrûm. As the word purt signifies a castle in the Armenian language, and as the Arabian geographers, from not having the letter p in their alphabet, are obliged to substitute the b, it is probable that the former is the more genuine orthography. This castle is particularly noted by Josaphat Barbaro, who says, “Partendo d' essa (Trabisonda) per andar à Thaurisil primo luogo notabile che si trova, è uno castello in piano in una valle d' ognitorno circondata da monti, nominato Baiburth, castel forte e muratoCinque giornate piu in la, si trova ArsenganPoi si ritrova un castello nominato Carpurth.”—Viaggio in Persia, p. 48, ed. 1545, 12mo. 7 Although this particular mine may have been exhausted, silver mines are known to exist in this part of Armenia. 8 The mountain of Armenia (the Ararat of Scripture) upon which the ark is believed by the Christians of that country to have rested, stands not far from the city of Erivan or Irwân. The Mahometans, however, assign to it a different situation. “L'opinion commune des Orientaux,” says D'Herbelot, “est que l'arche de Noë s'arrêta sur la montagne de Gioudi, qui est une des croupes du mont Taurus ou Gordiæus en Arménie, et cette tradition est autorisé en ce pays−là par plusieurs histoires qui approchent fort de la fable.” “Joudi,” says Ibn Haukal, “is a mountain near Nisibin. It is said that the ark of Noah (to whom be peace,) rested on the summit of this mountain.” Ouseley's translation, p. 60. Major Rennell observes, that Jeudi is the part of the Carduchian mountains opposite to the Jezirat ibn Omar, and that the dervishes keep a light burning there, in honour of Noah and his ark. 9 This fertility of the country in the vicinity of the mountains, is noticed by Moses Chorenensis, who says, “Habet autem Araratia montes camposque, atque omnem fæcunditatem.”—Geographia, p. 361. 10 Springs of petroleum or earth (properly, rock) oil, are found in many parts of the world. The spring or fountain here spoken of is that of Baku in Shirvan, on the border of the Caspian. “Near to this place,” says John Cartwright, in what are termed the Preacher's Travels, “is a very strange and wonderful fountain under ground, out of which there springeth and issueth a marvellous quantity of black oyl, which serveth all the parts of Persia to burn in their houses; and they usually carry it all over the country upon kine and asses, whereof you shall oftentimes meet three or four hundred in company.”—Oxford Coll. of Voyages, vol. i. (vii.) p. 731. Strahlenberg speaks of this as a spring of white naphtha, which he distinguishes from the black sort of bitumen; but the most satisfactory account of both white and black naphtha in this district is given by Kæmpfer, in his Amænitates Exoticæ, p. 274−281. 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Armenia is a country with a rich and ancient cultural heritage. It has three entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List, each listed under a single name, though some include multiple locations. All of them are monasteries, churches, or closely related religious sites. Together, they reflect the spiritual depth, architectural skill, and artistic achievements of the Armenian people, as well as their historical interactions with other civilizations. < Back Armenia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites Armenia is a country with a rich and ancient cultural heritage. It has three entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List, each listed under a single name, though some include multiple locations. All of them are monasteries, churches, or closely related religious sites. Together, they reflect the spiritual depth, architectural skill, and artistic achievements of the Armenian people, as well as their historical interactions with other civilizations. Armenia has three UNESCO World Heritage entries , each listed under a single name , even though some include multiple sites: Cathedral and Churches of Etchmiadzin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots (2000) Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin (1996, 2000) Monastery of Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley (2000) Here is a brief history of these places, presented in parallel with photos. Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin: The Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin are two remarkable examples of Armenian religious architecture, located in the Lori region of Armenia. They were built between the 10th and 13th centuries, during the period of prosperity and cultural revival known as the Kiurikian dynasty. The monasteries were founded by King Ashot III and his wife, Queen Khosrovanush, known for her patronage of learning and art. Haghpat Monastery The monastery of Haghpat consists of several buildings, including a narthex, a refectory, a scriptorium, a chapel-tomb complex, a belfry, and several cross-stones (khachkars). The monastery is surrounded by a towered rampart that was built in the 13th century to protect it from invaders. The monastery overlooks the Debed River and is situated on a hillside that offers scenic views. The monastery is also connected to St. Nshan Church by an underground passage. Sanahin Monastery The monastery of Sanahin is adjacent to Haghpat and shares some architectural features with it. It has a rectangular plan with an apse at one end and two towers at the other. The monastery contains several chapels dedicated to different saints and martyrs. It also had a school for illuminators and calligraphers that was renowned for its artistic skills. The mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church - Etchmiadzin Cathedral Cathedral and Churches of Echmiatsin and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots: The Cathedral of Echmiatsin, also known as Etchmiadzin, is the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church, located in the city of Echmiatsin or Vagharshapat. It was built in the early fourth century by King Trdat III and Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who converted Armenia to Christianity. The cathedral has a cruciform plan with four apses and a central dome, which is considered a masterpiece of Armenian architecture. The cathedral has been rebuilt several times after being damaged by earthquakes, fires, and invasions. The current building dates back to 1868 and incorporates elements from different periods of Armenian art․ The ruins of Zvartnots Temple The Archaeological Site of Zvartnots is located near Echmiatsin, about 18 km away. Zvartnots Temple, also known as Zvartnots Cathedral, is a medieval Armenian temple near the city of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. Catholicos Nerses III, the leader of the Armenian Church at that time, built it in the 7th century CE. The temple is renowned for its unique circular shape, a rarity in Armenian architecture. Zvartnots stood for 320 years before collapsing in the tenth century. The reason for its collapse is debated, with theories suggesting an earthquake or attacks from repeated Arab raids. Despite being well-engineered, the most accepted explanation is an earthquake collapse. Monastery of Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley: The Monastery of Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley is a stunning example of Armenian medieval architecture and culture. It is located in the Kotayk Province, at the entrance to the Azat River gorge, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery was founded in the 4th century by St. Gregory the Illuminator, who converted Armenia to Christianity. The name Geghard means "the Monastery of the Spear" and originates from the spear that allegedly wounded Jesus at the Crucifixion. It is said to have been brought to Armenia by Apostle Jude, and stored among various other relics. Currently, it is showcased in the Echmiadzin treasury. Geghard Monastery The main architectural complex was completed in the 13th century AD and consists of the cathedral, the adjacent narthex, eastern and western rock-cut churches, the family tomb of Proshyan princes, Papak’s and Ruzukan’s tomb-chapel, as well as various cells and numerous rock-cut cross-stones (khachkars). The Kathoghikè (main church) is in the classic Armenian form, an equal-armed cross inscribed in a square in plan and covered with a dome on a square base, linked with the base by vaulting. The monastery is surrounded by high cliffs that offer a spectacular view of the valley below. The valley is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. It contains several ancient sites, such as temples, palaces, fortresses, and monasteries. One of them is pagan Garni Temple. The Monastery of is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Armenia. It attracts visitors from all over the world who admire its unique architecture and history. It is also a place where visitors can experience the Armenian spirit and faith. These three sites showcase the architectural styles, artistic expressions, religious beliefs, and historical events that shaped Armenia’s identity over centuries. They are also sources of inspiration for future generations to preserve and promote their heritage. 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The Mikhail Khergiani House-Museum in Mestia honors one of Georgia’s greatest mountaineers — the legendary “Tiger of the Rocks.” Born in 1932, Khergiani conquered some of the world’s toughest peaks with remarkable skill and courage before his tragic death in the Dolomites in 1969. Housed in his family’s traditional Svan home and tower, the museum displays his climbing gear, personal belongings, and rare photos. Visitors can explore his legacy and enjoy panoramic views over Mestia and the Caucasus mountains from the tower’s top. < Back A Visit to the Mikhail Khergiani Museum The Mikhail Khergiani House-Museum in Mestia honors one of Georgia’s greatest mountaineers — the legendary “Tiger of the Rocks.” Born in 1932, Khergiani conquered some of the world’s toughest peaks with remarkable skill and courage before his tragic death in the Dolomites in 1969. Housed in his family’s traditional Svan home and tower, the museum displays his climbing gear, personal belongings, and rare photos. Visitors can explore his legacy and enjoy panoramic views over Mestia and the Caucasus mountains from the tower’s top. Mikhail Vissarionovich Khergiani was a legendary Georgian mountaineer, born on March 20, 1932, in the mountain village of Mestia. Known for his incredible speed and skill on some of the world’s toughest rock faces, he became a seven-time USSR climbing champion and earned the nickname “Tiger of the Rocks.” In 1963, he was awarded the title Honored Master of Sport of the USSR for his exceptional achievements. Parked my car in front of Mikhail Khergiani museum and is ready to explore it The Tragic Ascent In the summer of 1969, Khergiani joined a Soviet team on an expedition to the Italian Dolomites. Their goal was a series of difficult climbs, ending with an ascent of Mount Sualto (Civetta Massif) from the Alleghe side. During this final climb, a sudden rockfall struck. Leading the route, Khergiani was hit and thrown from the wall. His partner, Vyacheslav Onishchenko, heard a crash and a cry, braced himself for the pull, but the rope suddenly went slack — cut by falling rocks. Mikhail Khergiani was only 37 years old. His body was brought home to Mestia, where he was laid to rest. Today, his spirit lives on in the Mikhail Khergiani House-Museum, located in his birthplace — the Lagami district of Mestia. The Museum The museum opened in 1979, on the day of Mishaoba (Misha’s Day), a local holiday dedicated to his memory. It was established in Khergiani’s family home, a traditional Svan “machubi” house with an adjoining defensive tower. Enthusiasts and admirers from across the Soviet Union sent letters, artifacts, and personal mementos, many of which became part of the permanent exhibition or the special section “Gifts to the Museum.” By 1985, the full exhibition was completed, and the house-museum officially opened its doors to visitors. Inside the Museum The tour begins in the main room of the traditional Svan home. Here you’ll find family heirlooms: a cradle hanging by the hearth, a carved wooden chair, a dining table with benches, and simple household utensils that reflect the modest lifestyle of the Svan people. In Mikhail’s preserved bedroom, visitors can see his personal belongings — a wardrobe, bed, desk, and a map of the Himalayan ranges. Above the bed hangs a playful caricature of Khergiani as a tiger, drawn by Moscow artist Alexei Gaponenko. Another hall is devoted to the history of Soviet mountaineering, featuring vintage climbing equipment such as primus stoves, wooden-handled ice axes, hammers, compasses, and other gear. Khergiani’s own training uniform and numerous awards are also displayed, along with a section dedicated to the rescue team he once led. The Tower and the Legacy The house’s stone tower once served as storage during peaceful times, but today its roof has been transformed into a viewing platform offering stunning views over Mestia and the surrounding Caucasus peaks. Inside the tower, high on a wall that resembles a rock face, hangs the red rope that broke during Khergiani’s final climb — a somber yet powerful reminder of his courage and fate. Guided tours are led by Khergiani’s nephew, also named Mikhail, who continues his uncle’s mountaineering legacy. A Hero Remembered Though his life was cut short, Mikhail Khergiani’s name remains deeply respected in the mountaineering world. He was not only a fearless athlete but also a compassionate rescuer who saved countless lives. For anyone visiting Svaneti, a stop at the Mikhail Khergiani House-Museum is a must. It’s more than just a museum — it’s a heartfelt tribute to a man whose bravery, skill, and humanity continue to inspire climbers and adventurers around the world. 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Discover Quba Mere Diwane, the world's largest Yazidi temple, located in Aknalich, Armenia. Built by businessman Mirza Sloyan and designed by Artak Ghulyan, this stunning 25-meter-high temple features seven domes and a museum. Learn about its dedication to Yazidi angels and its cultural significance. < Back The Largest Yazidi Temple in the World – Quba Mere Diwane Discover Quba Mere Diwane, the world's largest Yazidi temple, located in Aknalich, Armenia. Built by businessman Mirza Sloyan and designed by Artak Ghulyan, this stunning 25-meter-high temple features seven domes and a museum. Learn about its dedication to Yazidi angels and its cultural significance. Quba Mere Diwane, opened in September 2019, is the largest Yazidi temple in the world. Located in the village of Aknalich in the Armavir region of Armenia, it was built at the expense of an Armenian Yazidi living in Russia, businessman Mirza Sloyan. The new temple is situated just a few meters from Ziarat, the first Yazidi temple in Armenia, built in 2012. The temple was designed by Artak Ghulyan, one of the most prolific architects of religious buildings in Armenia. Quba Mere Diwane The temple is 25 meters high and consists of seven domes surrounding a central arched roof. It also houses a seminary and a museum. The temple is dedicated to the angel Malak Tavus and the seven angels of Yazidi theology. The highest dome and the surrounding domes symbolize angels and are decorated with golden suns. The design is largely inspired by the Lalesh Temple in northern Iraq, the main Yazidi shrine and place of pilgrimage. In the adjacent park opposite the temple, one can see numerous statues dedicated to renowned Yazidi and Armenian historical figures and saints. Yazidis are one of the largest ethnic minorities in Armenia, practicing an ancient, monotheistic belief that has similarities to Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Sufism, and Zoroastrianism, along with elements of Iranian paganism. A monument dedicated to the Genocide of Shangali Yazidis Yazidis are a national minority and according to the Armenian census, 35,000 Yazidis lived in Armenia in 2011. Gallery You May Also Like How to Visit ROT54 (Aragats Scientific Center) – Full Guide Shvanidzor’s 17th-Century Aqueduct: Armenia’s Ancient Engineering Marvel Grigor Khanjyan’s Monumental Fresco at the Yerevan Cascade From Stendhal Syndrome to Suren Syndrome Tirinkatar Sacred Valley: Armenia’s High-Altitude Valley of Dragon Stones How to Choose a Local Guide in Armenia Komitas Pantheon in Yerevan Gallery of Mineral Waters in Jermuk

Just a short drive from the center of Yerevan, in what used to be the city’s outskirts in 1960s, stands something few would expect from a small mountainous country better known for ancient monasteries and volcanic peaks: a particle accelerator. Yes, Armenia has its own chapter in the history of high-energy physics. Welcome to the Yerevan Physics Institute Synchrotron, also known as YerPhI (ЕРФИ - Ереванский физический институт) or officially, the A.I. Alikhanyan National Science Laboratory—a quiet but powerful remnant of Soviet science. < Back Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Just a short drive from the center of Yerevan, in what used to be the city’s outskirts in 1960s, stands something few would expect from a small mountainous country better known for ancient monasteries and volcanic peaks: a particle accelerator. Yes, Armenia has its own chapter in the history of high-energy physics. Welcome to the Yerevan Physics Institute Synchrotron, also known as YerPhI (ЕРФИ - Ереванский физический институт) or officially, the A.I. Alikhanyan National Science Laboratory—a quiet but powerful remnant of Soviet science. How it started? Founded in 1943 as a branch of Yerevan State University by renowned physicists Abraham Alikhanov and Artem Alikhanyan, YerPhI quickly became a cornerstone of Armenia’s scientific ambition. Just two years later, high-altitude cosmic ray stations were built on the slopes of Mount Aragats — Nor Amberd at 2000m and Aragats Station at 3200m. A government delegation led by Brezhnev at the Armenian SSR pavilion at VDNKh, near the particle accelerator model By the 1960s, the dream went underground—literally. YerPhI’s team began construction on a major accelerator complex, designed for cutting-edge research in nuclear and high-energy physics. The symbol named "Arus" As you approach YerPhI, you’ll notice a striking sculpture on your right—a mysterious double-sided figure made of red tuff, standing three meters tall. This is Arus, also known as the "Armenian Sphinx." The name "Arus" is both a common Armenian woman’s name and an acronym for Armenian Accelerator (Армянский Ускоритель). It is said that the title "Armenian Sphinx" was coined by Artem Alikhanyan, founder of the Institute of Physics. Created by sculptor Arto Chakmakchyan , Arus is more than art—it’s a tribute to the dreams and determination behind Armenia’s scientific rise. And it guards the entrance to the underground halls where science once roared. Into the Depths: A Fortress of Concrete and Basalt Next, you’ll spot a large sign in Russian on top of the building to your left: “ЕрФИ.” In 1965, the LU-75 linear accelerator was completed. Two years later, it was joined by a 6 GeV synchrotron . Though its raw power can’t compete with modern giants like CERN, this facility was once among the most advanced in the USSR, delivering over 5,000 operational hours annually at its peak. The Arus synchrotron, with a diameter of approximately 70 meters and a circumference of about 220 meters, was designed to accelerate electrons to an energy of 6 GeV. The accelerator also produced a beam of linearly polarized photons in the 0.9–1.8 GeV range, enabling precise experiments in particle interactions. Key specifications include: Diameter: 70 m Commissioning Year: 1967 Electron Energy: Up to 6 GeV (designed), 4.15–4.5 GeV (operational) Photon Beam: 0.9–1.8 GeV (linearly polarized) Experimental Setup: Included magnetic spectrometers and neutron hodoscopes for detailed measurements Scientific Contributions Arus facilitated a range of groundbreaking experiments in particle physics. One significant study measured the asymmetry of deuteron photodisintegration at photon energies up to 1.8 GeV, using a 90° centre-of-mass angle. This experiment, conducted with a magnetic spectrometer for protons and a neutron hodoscope, challenged existing models of quark interactions by highlighting discrepancies in constituent quark counting rules. Other research explored: Hadronic properties of photons via π-meson photoproduction on nuclei. Structures of nucleon resonances through multi-polarization experiments. Characteristics of nuclear matter under high-energy conditions. A notable achievement was the 1970 discovery of X-ray transition radiation, a phenomenon now widely used in particle identification detectors worldwide. Collaborations with scientists from the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna underscored Arus’s role in fostering international scientific exchange. The last full run of the circular accelerator took place in 1998. Operations resumed in May of that year, shifting focus to photodisintegration studies and the investigation of quasi-deuteron disintegration in light nuclei such as helium-4 and lithium-6. These efforts aimed to deepen our understanding of nuclear interactions using the synchrotron’s polarized photon beam. From Electrons to Isotopes: What Happened Inside Put simply, a particle accelerator speeds up electrons or protons to near light-speed and smashes them into targets. This lets scientists study the tiniest building blocks of matter. Think of it as an atomic microscope—on steroids. As I stepped out of the elevator and saw the particle accelerator, a pleasant shiver ran down my spine At YerPhI, researchers focused on: Electron-photonuclear interactions Production of medical radioisotopes like technetium-99m Transition radiation in monocrystals Nuclear resonance structures Hadronic properties of photons Thanks to the synchrotron’s precision beamline —designed to eliminate electromagnetic noise and enable low-background experiments—researchers were able to carry out delicate, world-class physics investigations. I took a photo of Mr. Hakobyan as he explained how the accelerator worked Many of these experiments, including the development of wide-gap spark chambers and transition radiation detectors, positioned YerPhI as a serious contributor to international scientific collaborations from the mid-1980s onward. Back to our visit After passing through the gates, you’re guided to a large round building, where an elevator takes you four floors underground where the accelerator is located. Every instrument sits on a single elevation surface , with zero tolerance for millimeter error. That’s how precise things had to be. Massive half-meter-thick, lead-lined doors shield the lab—and the outside world—from potential radiation and other hazards. Inside these heavily reinforced corridors lies what was once a state-of-the-art research machine. Even today, its foundations are solid—scientifically and structurally. Where It Stands Today After the collapse of the Soviet Union, YerPhI faced tough times—lack of funding, scarce resources, and a brain drain of specialists. However, it managed to adapt to the changing global scientific landscape, continuing its research and contributing to the broader field of physics. While large-scale acceleration has stopped, the facility remains partially operational. It’s used for training, detector development, and even international research collaborations. Behind thick glass, we observed the work in the laboratory The building may carry the weight of the past, but the minds inside are very much focused on the future. The display boards told the rich history of the Physics Institute For the Curious Traveler YerPhI isn’t your average tourist stop, but it’s a goldmine for those who enjoy science with a twist of Soviet nostalgia . So if you're a traveler looking for more than just churches and khachkars—if you want to touch the edge of atoms and ambition—put YerPhI on your radar. Because Armenia isn’t just old; it’s also brilliant. I’m Suren, a professional urban explorer in Armenia. I offer unique urbex tours to abandoned, hidden, and off-the-map places you won’t find in guidebooks. Want a custom itinerary? Contact me on WhatsApp or Telegram . 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Stone cairns, the carefully arranged stacks of rocks found in various landscapes across the world, have a rich history and continue to serve important functions today. These humble piles of stones, while seemingly simple, carry deep cultural significance and practical utility. < Back Stone Cairns: From Burial Mounds To Modern Markers Stone cairns, the carefully arranged stacks of rocks found in various landscapes across the world, have a rich history and continue to serve important functions today. These humble piles of stones, while seemingly simple, carry deep cultural significance and practical utility. If you have ever gone hiking, chances are high that you have encountered arranged stacks of stones, sometimes reaching or exceeding human height. Wondering what they are for? This article will shed light on the matter. The word "cairn" comes from the Scots word "cairn," (the meaning is the same) which originates from the Scottish Gaelic "càrn." Similar words are found in other Celtic languages, like Welsh "carn," Breton "karn," Irish "carn," and Cornish "karn" or "carn. Stone cairns Cairns have been constructed since prehistoric times, with some of the earliest examples dating back to the Neolithic period. These ancient cairns were often used as burial sites, marking the graves of important individuals or leaders. For instance, in Wales, archaeologists have discovered cairns that are over 4,500 years old, believed to be the resting places of Neolithic tribal leaders. Cairns hold cultural significance in many parts of the world. In Scotland, it is traditional to carry a stone from the bottom of a hill to place on a cairn at the summit. This practice not only marks the achievement of reaching the top but also contributes to the growth of the cairn over time. An old Scottish Gaelic blessing, "Cuiridh mi clach air do chàrn," means "I'll put a stone on your cairn." In Peru, cairns are often built as shrines, holding deep symbolic meaning in local folklore. Me standing near a huge stone cairn at the top of Mount Aragats Ancient Uses of Stone Cairns 1. Navigational Aids : In ancient times, cairns were used as landmarks to guide travelers across vast, featureless terrains such as deserts, tundras, and mountain passes. In regions like Scandinavia, Scotland, and the Himalayas, these stone markers were essential for navigation, marking safe paths through treacherous landscapes. 2. Burial Sites : Many cultures used cairns to mark graves or commemorate the dead. In Scotland, for example, cairns often covered burial sites, serving as lasting memorials. Similarly, Native American tribes in North America used cairns for burials and to honor significant individuals. 3. Territorial Markers : Cairns also functioned as boundary markers, delineating territories and property lines. They were used to mark the boundaries of tribal lands, ensuring that each group’s territory was clearly defined. 4. Spiritual and Religious Significance : Many cairns had spiritual or religious importance. They were often constructed as offerings to deities or spirits, especially in places considered sacred or significant. In the Andes, cairns called “apachetas” were built by indigenous peoples as offerings to the gods, particularly to ensure safe passage through the mountains. Stone cairns at the top of mount Tirinkatar, Armenia Modern Uses of Stone Cairns 1. Trail Markers : Today, cairns are commonly used on hiking trails to guide trekkers. They help hikers find their way in areas where trails might be faint, covered in snow, or obscured by other natural elements. In places like the Appalachian Trail in the United States or the Inca Trail in Peru, cairns provide reassurance and direction to adventurers. 2. Environmental Awareness : Cairns can also serve to protect the environment by marking designated paths and reducing the impact of foot traffic on surrounding vegetation and wildlife. By following cairns, hikers can avoid creating new trails that could lead to soil erosion and habitat destruction. 3. Artistic and Cultural Expressions : In recent years, building cairns has become a form of artistic expression and a way for people to leave their mark in nature. While this practice can be controversial due to potential environmental impacts, many view it as a way to connect with the landscape and those who will come after. The 2022 movie Against the Ice , based on a true story , follows the harrowing journey of Danish explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen and his sole companion, mechanic Iver Iversen, as they venture into the treacherous landscape of Greenland in 1909. Their mission is to recover crucial documents left behind by the previous "Denmark Expedition" of 1906-1908, which could validate Denmark’s claim to the northeastern part of Greenland. After three months, the explorers locate the stone cairn containing records that disprove the existence of the Peary Channel, thereby proving that Greenland is a single island and negating any U.S. territorial claims in the Arctic. Stone cairns stand as silent witnesses to human history. From ancient burial mounds to serving as modern markers, they represent our enduring desire to connect with the past and present. The next time you encounter a cairn on your travels, take a moment to ponder the stories it might hold... 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This comprehensive Mount Aragats hiking tour itinerary invites you to climb all 4 summits of Armenia's highest mountain, Mount Aragats. We offer flexible options, allowing you to choose which Aragats summit to climb based on your physical fitness and desired challenge. Within this Armenia trekking guide, you'll find detailed technical information and trekking details for each of the four Aragats peaks presented separately. For the ultimate Aragats climbing adventure, including a 2 day hike with camping at night to conquer all four peaks of Mount Aragats at once, I am are ready to create a customized itinerary for you! < Back One-Day Hike from Yerevan: Climb Mount Aragats with a Guide This comprehensive Mount Aragats hiking tour itinerary invites you to climb all 4 summits of Armenia's highest mountain, Mount Aragats. We offer flexible options, allowing you to choose which Aragats summit to climb based on your physical fitness and desired challenge. Within this Armenia trekking guide, you'll find detailed technical information and trekking details for each of the four Aragats peaks presented separately. For the ultimate Aragats climbing adventure, including a 2 day hike with camping at night to conquer all four peaks of Mount Aragats at once, I am are ready to create a customized itinerary for you! Mount Aragats is located in the central part of Armenia, northwest of Yerevan and north of the Ararat Plain at the border of Aragatsotn and Shirak regions! Rising proudly amidst the rugged landscapes of Armenia, Mount Aragats with its 4 summits stands as a majestic symbol of natural beauty and cultural significance. Its majestic snow-capped summits, vast alpine meadows, and striking volcanic landscapes make it an unforgettable trekking experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure activities in Armenia. Whether you seek rugged hiking trails, panoramic views, or the challenge of conquering its peaks, climbing Mount Aragats is a must for those exploring Armenia’s wild beauty. Aragats has four summits, which are named according to their relative geographic position: Northern—4,090 m (13,420 ft) Highest summit in Armenia Western—3,995 m (13,107 ft) Eastern—3,908 m (12,822 ft) Southern—3,888 m (12,756 ft) While all four summits of Mount Aragats are generally accessible for hikers and do not typically require advanced technical rock climbing skills, proper preparation is crucial. I highly recommend maintaining good physical condition, carrying sufficient water and food, and having professional hiking gear for Aragats to ensure a safe and enjoyable mountain climbing experience. Snapped this shot of my Mitsubishi Pajero in mid-May near Lake Kari, at around 3,200 meters elevation. Just look at the snow still clinging to the ground—Mother Nature clearly isn’t done with winter up here. Understanding the characteristics of each Aragats peak is key to planning your Armenian mountain adventure: Northern Summit — 4,090 m (13,420 ft): This is the highest summit in Armenia and presents the most challenging Aragats climb, requiring excellent physical fitness. Eastern Summit — 3,908 m (12,822 ft): Another demanding Aragats hiking trail, known for its rugged beauty. There are two usual starting points for the Northern and Eastern summits: Lake Kari (3,200 meters) and Gegharot Waterfall (3000 meters). From Lake Kari, the distance to the Northern summit is 14 km (one way), while from Gegharot Waterfall, it is only 6 km. However, the Gegharot route requires an off-road car, while for lake Kari you can even grab a taxi. Western Summit — 3,995 m (13,107 ft): A popular Aragats trekking route, offering a challenging yet rewarding ascent. Unlike the Southern summit, the slopes of the Western summit are steeper, and there are many loose stones. Southern Summit — 3,888 m (12,756 ft): Considered the most accessible Aragats peak, ideal for moderate Aragats hikes and those new to high-altitude trekking in Armenia. You can choose the classic route, which goes up toward the summit with a slight turn to the west, or hike along the ridge. The ridge is harder but gives amazing views of the crater and the North and East summits. It's best for experienced hikers. Northern Aragats as seen by me from the top of Southern Summit Northern Aragats — 4,090 m (13,420 ft) Treck details: Distance: 6km (One way) Altitude Gain: 1090 meters Duration: 4,5 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3,5 hours Start point: Gegharot Waterfall (3000m) End point: Gegharot Waterfall (3000m) Difficulty: Difficult Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Off-road car ----------------- Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Northern)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 110.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ------------ The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation Service of a guide Eastern Aragats as seen by me from the top of Southern Summit Eastern Aragats — 3,908 m (12,822 ft) Treck details: Distance: 4.5km (One way) Altitude Gain: 1200 meters Duration: 3.5 - 4 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3 hours Start point: 10 km up from Aragats village, towards Gegharot waterfall End point: 10 km up from Aragats village, towards Gegharot waterfall Difficulty: Difficult Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Off-road car ---------------- Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Eastern)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 110.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ------------- The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation Service of a guide ---------------- Western Aragats from the top of Southern Summit Western Aragats — 3,995 m (13,107 ft) Treck details: Distance: 6.5km (One way) Altitude Gain: 800 meters Duration: 3.5-4 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 3 hours Start point: Stone Lake End point: Stone Lake Difficulty: Difficult Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Sedan ------------------ Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Western)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 90.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! ---------------- The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation in air conditioned vehicle Service of a guide --------- The Price Does Not Include: Airport transfers Insurance Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment) Southern Aragats as seen by me from the shore of lake Kari Southern Aragats — 3,888 m (12,756 ft) Treck details: Distance: 5.5km (One way) Altitude Gain: 688 meters Duration: 2.5-3 hours (Ascent)! Descent takes around 2 hours Start point: Stone Lake End point: Stone Lake Difficulty: Moderate Trail Type: Out-and-Back Transportation: Sedan ----------- Tour Price to the Summit of Mount Aragats (Southern)! Total price for 1-4 participants (the whole group): 90.000 AMD For larger groups, please consider contacting for more details! --------- The price includes: Pick up & drop off (In Yerevan) Transportation in air conditioned vehicle Service of a guide --------- The Price Does Not Include: Airport transfers Insurance Lunch (Lunchboxes can be added in case of an extra payment) ----------- List of things you should consider taking for climbing mount Aragats: 1. Backpack: A sturdy backpack to carry all your essentials. 2. Water: S ufficient water to stay hydrated throughout the hike. At least 1.5 liters… 3. Food: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up. 4. Clothing: Dress in layers, including a waterproof/windproof outer layer, and choose moisture-wicking materials. Having extra socks and boots always welcomed… 5. Hiking Shoes/Boots : Wear comfortable and supportive footwear suitable for the terrain. 6. First Aid Kit: I have mine but in case you are using specific medicaments take with you! 7. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. 9. Headlamp/Flashlight: Essential for hiking in low light conditions or during overnight trips. 10. Whistle: A loud whistle for attracting attention in case of emergencies. 11. Trekking Poles: Optional but helpful for stability, especially on challenging terrains. 12. Rain Gear: A lightweight, waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during rain showers. 13. Trash Bag: Carry a small bag to pack out your trash and keep the trail clean. Remember, this list may vary depending on the length and difficulty of the hike, weather conditions, and personal needs. But this were the basic things I decided to emphasize! 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