Armenia was one of
the earliest Christian civilisations; its first
churches were founded in the fourth century. Armenia
later spent centuries largely under Turkic or Persian
control and its rich cultural and architectural
heritage combines elements from different traditions.
The Armenian language is part of the Indo-European
family but its alphabet is unique. You can see samples
of ancient manuscripts in the magnificent Matenadaran
Museum.
Armenia
is such a beautiful country with stunning contrasting
landscapes. In the north stone churches are hidden
in luxuriant verdant gorges whilst in the south
the monasteries perch on red craggy mountains. Picnic
lunches can be taken by the ever-changing colours
of Lake Sevan, the largest alpine freshwater lake.
Further south from the lake near Noratus, there
is a field of Khachkars (translated as cross-stone,
carved memorial stones). Join the young shepherds
looking after their sheep and goats and wander amongst
approximately 900 khachkars of different styles.
Wine
tasting at Areni Winery in Vayots Dzor and brandy
tasting at Yerevan's Brandy Factory, now owned by
Pernod-Ricard of France are part of the many highlights
of a visit to Armenia. The Brandy Factory was established
toward the end of the 19th century and has a great
reputation for its flavourful, light brandies aged
from 3 - 21 years in Krasnodar oak barrels. Armenian
brandies display a distinct apricot aroma.
For more information
on our holidays and city breaks, or on a tailor-made
trip to Armenia, please contact our specialist:
