Conquering The Great Fortress: Monasteries,Alphabet & Amberd

Conquering The Great Fortress: Monasteries,Alphabet & Amberd

This 7-hour private tour in Armenia offers an enriching journey through some of the country’s most iconic historical sites. For $280 per group of up to 6 people, you gain access to Hovhannavank and Saghmosavank Monasteries, the Armenian Alphabet monument, and the Amberd Fortress, all comfortably transported in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. Led by an experienced guide, this tour is perfect for those interested in Armenia’s spiritual and military history, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included.

While the tour is packed with sights and cultural insights, it’s worth noting that tickets to the fortress are not included in the price, and the entire experience requires a fair amount of walking and exploration at each site. The 4.8 rating from the provider Gregory reflects the quality and reliability of this sightseeing experience. It appeals most to travelers who enjoy a mix of religious sites, ancient ruins, and scenic views, all within a manageable timeframe.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $280 for a 7-hour private tour with hotel pickup.
• Visit Iconic Monasteries: Explore Hovhannavank and Saghmosavank, renowned for their historical and spiritual significance.
• Unique Highlight: Find your initial in the Armenian Alphabet monument, built in 2005 for Armenia’s 1600th anniversary.
• Majestic Fortress: Discover the Amberd Fortress, built in the 7th century, located at more than 2000 meters altitude near Mount Aragats.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel in a Mercedes-Benz, with free Wi-Fi, photo services, and refreshments provided.
• Exclusions: Admission tickets to the fortress are purchased separately.

Exploring the Monasteries Near Kasakh Gorge

The tour begins with visits to Hovhannavank and Saghmosavank Monasteries, both located in the Aragatsotn region. Hovhannavank is famous for its medieval church dedicated to John the Baptist and was once the keeper of relics like the Shroud of Jesus and the Nail from the crucifixion. The Saghmosavank Monastery is well-known for its library of manuscripts and cross-domed church.

The Kasakh River gorge towers above these sites, offering sweeping views of untouched nature. Visitors can expect to see dramatic cliffs and lush landscapes, which make for impressive photographs. The proximity of these monasteries allows for efficient sightseeing, with 30-minute stops at each location to soak in history and scenery.

The Armenian Alphabet Monument: A Cultural Landmark

Next, the tour moves to the Armenian Alphabet monument, constructed in 2005 to mark the 1600th anniversary of the alphabet’s creation by Mesrop Mashtots. Situated along the road to Mount Aragats, the monument is an open-air sculpture inviting visitors to walk around and find the first letter of their name in Armenian.

This site offers a chance to experience Armenia’s linguistic pride and take memorable photos in fresh air. The 30-minute visit is ideal for those interested in Armenia’s cultural symbols, and the open setting promises scenic views and photo opportunities.

Climbing the Ruins of Amberd Fortress

The final stop is the Amberd Fortress, a majestic structure built in the 7th century at an altitude of over 2000 meters. Located halfway up Mount Aragats, the fortress served as a strategic outpost in ancient Armenia. Today, only its imposing ruins remain, but they still evoke a sense of history and resilience.

Near the fortress is a small church built in 1026, adding to the site’s historical atmosphere. The destruction in the 13th century by the Mongols leaves the fortress as a captivating ruin, offering stunning views of the ridges and the surrounding natural landscape. The 1-hour exploration allows for walking among the ruins and appreciating the fortress’s historical significance.

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The Comfortable Transport and Additional Amenities

Traveling in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz, the tour ensures a smooth and pleasant journey. The vehicle comes equipped with free Wi-Fi, photo services at various stops, and complimentary treats including coffee or tea. The guide provides expert commentary in English, Russian, or Armenian, making the experience informative and engaging.

Additional amenities like headphones, chargers, umbrellas, and blankets enhance comfort during the day. Hotel pickup and drop-off make for easy planning, eliminating transportation worries. The small group size of up to 6 people maintains intimacy and personalized attention.

Physical Requirements and Practical Tips

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor walking. The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or individuals over 70 years, due to the physical nature of exploring the sites. Travelers are encouraged to bring personal necessities like water, and be prepared for moderate walking at each location.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for travel plans. Full refunds are available if cancellations are made at least 24 hours in advance. This policy offers peace of mind when planning your Armenia itinerary.

Comparing with Similar Tours

This private experience stands out for its bespoke group size and comprehensive coverage of Armenia’s cultural landmarks. Other available options include group tours to Etchmiadzin Cathedral or Zvartnots, but this tour’s focus on monasteries, the alphabet monument, and Amberd Fortress provides a well-rounded cultural and historical snapshot.

Final Thoughts on the Conquering The Great Fortress Tour

The $280 price for a full-day, private guided tour offers good value for exploring Armenia’s spiritual, linguistic, and military history. The comfortable transportation and professional guide ensure a smooth experience, while the scenic stops and photo opportunities keep the journey engaging.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who want an intimate, detailed exploration of Armenia’s ancient sites without the hassle of organizing transport and guides themselves. It suits those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, making it a memorable addition to an Armenia trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $280 fee covers private transportation, guide service, photo services, treats in the car, Wi-Fi, and hotel pickup & drop-off.

Are tickets to Amberd Fortress included?
No, tickets to the fortress are not included and must be purchased separately.

How long is each stop?
Stops at Hovhannavank and Saghmosavank last about 30 minutes each, the Alphabet monument also about 30 minutes, and the Amberd Fortress is around 1 hour.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor walking are recommended. Bring a hat and water for the warmer months.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 should remove shoes inside the vehicle, and the tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year or travelers over 70 years.

How flexible is the booking process?
You can reserve now and pay later with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides operate in English, Russian, and Armenian.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is 7 hours, including all stops and transfers.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private group tour, ensuring personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its combination of monastic visits, the Armenian Alphabet monument, and the ancient Amberd Fortress in a single day sets it apart, along with luxurious transport and comprehensive amenities.

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