Sights in Aragatsotn Marz

Sites on Mt. Aragats:

Mt. Aragats - at 4090 meters, this is Armenia's highest mountain and very accessible from Yerevan.  The south peak (3879m) is easiest to climb, and hikers start at the lake by the Cosmic Ray Institute above Amberd.  The clouds usually come in by 10, so hikers often start at 5am for a clear view - and climb.  The hike is not very difficult, and takes less than 2 hours to reach the peak - but dress warm, it's always cold up there.

Byurakan Observatory - once headed by Viktor Hambartsumian, a former president of the International Astrophysicist Organization, this observatory saw some important discoveries and research, and is very active to this day.  Tours are often available by appointment - including nightime star gazing.

Byurakan Church of S. Hovhannes - this church is so old it has the Maltese cross carved into it, predating the creation of the Armenian cross.  The outer, temple-style foundation steps are a further indication of its age, and the style and carvings are beautiful.

Amberd Fortress and Church - reaching its zenith during the 11th century when it was the seat of the Pahlavuni family, much of the fortress still stands, and the church underwent a total reconstruction during Soviet times.  A beautiful spot, with spectacular views on a clear day.

Tegher Monastery - Built of black stone, with what appear to be two additional churches built on the roof, this monastery is not on most visitors lists, and you'll likely enjoy it in solitude.

Sites south of Mt. Aragats:

Oshakan -This is the village where Mesrop Mashtots was buried in an unassuming church.  His grave lies underground, and there is a statue of him, Armenian letters in the side yard, and a big slate upon entering the village with the alphabet as well.

Aruch Cathedral - This ancient cathedral, built in 666, looms above the village of Aruch.  There are remanants of massive frescos inside, including a 7 meter high Christ, and the outside has the ruins of castles and other structures.

Aruch Caravanseray - this rebuilt site of the old silk road is just a few steps from the highway.  A quick stop will let you see where the old spice traders would spend their nights.

Mastara Church - This 7th century church has it's own style, is somewhat round and very tall, with a very nice old wooden altar.  Worth popping by on a trip to Gyumri.

Dashtadem Fortress -This castle within a fortress is undergoing massive restoration.  There are half-round towers glued onto an earlier Armenian fortress probably of the 10th c.  The outer walls are much more recent, from the early 1800s.

Sites east of Mt. Aragats:

Mughni Church - The round alternating stripes on the drum of the church make this one a fun one.  The 14th century church is just a few minutes north of Ashtarak.

Hovhannavank Monastery - Built on the edge of the large Kasagh gorge, across from Mt. Ara, this ancient monastery has nice carvings and views.

Armenian Alphabet - This is one of Armenia's newest sites.  Large stones have been carved into the letters of the Armenian alphabet, and are laid out randomly on the west side of the highway, with a statue of Mashtots overlooking the scene.

Saghmosavank Monastery - Also on the edge of the large Kasagh river gorge, across from Mt. Ara, Saghmosavank is a photogenic monastery with lots of interesting details.  The bell towers, khachkars, ceiling patterns and frescoes are all fun to explore.

Kasagh Basilica -Worth a quick stop on a trip to Vanadzor, this small old black basilica dates way back to the 5th century.  Even today you can see how the tall interior inspired people 1,5000 years ago, and the other details from that era are also interesting.

(remove sights from list above as they're added individually)