Is it Worth Visiting Alaverdi?

Alaverdi is a small town located in the Lori province of Armenia, known for its historic monastery and beautiful nature. If you are planning to travel to Armenia and wondering whether Alaverdi is worth a visit, the answer is a resounding YES. In this post, we will explore the reasons why Alaverdi is worth visiting, and what you can expect to see and do there.

The History of Alaverdi

Alaverdi has a rich history, dating back to the early medieval period. The town is named after the famous Alaverdi Cathedral, which was built in the 10th century and is considered one of the most important examples of Armenian medieval architecture. The cathedral is located on a hill overlooking the town and the Debed River valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. During the Soviet era, Alaverdi became an important industrial center, with a large copper smelting plant and other factories operating in the town. Today, Alaverdi is still an industrial hub, but it also attracts tourists from all over the world who come to admire its natural beauty and historic monuments.

Things to See and Do in Alaverdi

One of the main attractions of Alaverdi is, of course, the Alaverdi Cathedral. This stunning medieval monument has been well-preserved over the centuries and is a must-see for anyone interested in Armenian history and culture. The cathedral boasts beautiful frescoes, intricate carvings, and a peaceful atmosphere that will transport you back in time.Another interesting sight in Alaverdi is the Sanahin Monastery complex, which is located just a few kilometers from the town. Sanahin was built in the 10th century and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex includes several churches, chapels, and other buildings, as well as a beautiful garden full of fruit trees and flowers. If you are a nature lover, you will also enjoy exploring the surrounding mountains and forests. Alaverdi is located in a picturesque valley and is surrounded by hills covered in greenery. There are several hiking trails in the area that will take you to waterfalls, caves, and other natural wonders.

Food and Accommodation in Alaverdi

Alaverdi has a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. The town also has several restaurants and cafes where you can try traditional Armenian cuisine. Some of the popular dishes in the region include khash (a soup made of cow feet), khorovats (barbecue), and dolma (stuffed grape leaves).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Alaverdi is definitely worth visiting if you are traveling in Armenia. With its rich history, natural beauty, and delicious food, this small town has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in architecture, culture, nature, or simply want to relax and enjoy the scenery, Alaverdi is a great destination. So pack your bags and head to Alaverdi – you won’t be disappointed!

An Insider’s Guide to Alaverdi, Armenia

Located in the northern Lori Province of Armenia, Alaverdi is a quiet yet charming city that attracts tourists for its rich history, stunning architecture, natural wonders, and unique cultural experiences. Although often overshadowed by other popular Armenian destinations like Yerevan and Gyumri, Alaverdi is definitely a hidden gem worth visiting. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your visit to Alaverdi unforgettable.

Attractions

Alaverdi is home to several must-visit attractions, including:

– Sanahin Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sanahin Monastery is a magnificent example of medieval Armenian architecture that dates back to the 10th century. The complex includes several churches, a library, a bell tower, and khachkars (cross-stones) that are intricately carved with religious and historical motifs.

– Haghpat Monastery: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Alaverdi, Haghpat Monastery is an extraordinary example of medieval Armenian architecture that was built in the 10th century. Like Sanahin Monastery, Haghpat features various churches and chapels, a refectory, a bell tower, and intricate khachkars.

– Alaverdi Cathedral: The largest Armenian Apostolic Church in the world, Alaverdi Cathedral is a stunning example of Armenian architectural style. Built in the 11th century, the cathedral features intricate stone carvings and frescoes that depict biblical scenes and saints.

– Dzoraget River Gorge: Located just outside Alaverdi, the Dzoraget River Gorge is a natural wonder that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can take a hike along the river or go on a guided jeep tour to explore the rugged landscape.

Dining Spots

Alaverdi is known for its traditional Armenian cuisine, which is hearty, flavorful, and often served in large portions. Some of the best dining spots in Alaverdi include:

– Old Bridge Restaurant: A cozy restaurant that serves freshly cooked Armenian dishes, including khinkali (dumplings), khorovats (barbecue), and dolma (stuffed grape leaves).

– Khash Ech: A popular spot among locals, Khash Ech specializes in khash, a traditional Armenian soup made from beef feet and served with garlic, vinegar, and lavash (flatbread).

– Family Bakery: A small bakery that bakes fresh bread and other Armenian pastries, such as gata (sweet bread) and nazook (pastry with cream filling).

Cultural Experiences

Alaverdi offers several unique cultural experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Armenian traditions and customs, including:

– Wine Tasting: Alaverdi is known for its winemaking tradition, and visitors can taste local wines at wineries such as Rind, Voskevaz, and Karas.

– Handicrafts: There are several local artisans in Alaverdi who specialize in traditional handicrafts such as pottery, weaving, and wood carving. You can visit their workshops and purchase handmade souvenirs.

– Festivals: Alaverdi hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Dzoraget Festival in June, which features traditional music, dance, and food.

Local History

Alaverdi has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Some of the most notable historical landmarks in Alaverdi include:

– Odzun Church: Situated on a rocky hill overlooking Alaverdi, Odzun Church is a 5th-century basilica that is considered one of the oldest Christian churches in Armenia.

– Kayan Fortress: Also known as the Fortress of the Armenian kings, Kayan Fortress is a medieval castle that was built in the 10th century to protect the region from invaders.

– Akhtala Monastery: Located just outside Alaverdi, Akhtala Monastery is a 13th-century complex that features several churches, the oldest of which has frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible and Armenian history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for unique and unusual things to do in Alaverdi, consider:

– Hunting for Geocaches: Alaverdi has several hidden geocaches that can be found by using GPS coordinates and clues.

– Visiting the Alaverdi “Car Cemetery”: A junkyard located on the outskirts of Alaverdi that is filled with abandoned Soviet-era cars, engines, and scrap metal.

– Taking a Soviet-era Cable Car: Alaverdi has a rickety cable car that was built in the 1960s to transport workers to the copper mines. The ride offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape but is not recommended for those with a fear of heights.

In conclusion, Alaverdi is a hidden gem in Armenia that has a lot to offer for tourists who are looking for a unique and authentic experience. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, cuisine, nature, or culture, Alaverdi has something for everyone.