Embark on a journey through time with a 2-hour guided tour of the Haghartsin Monastery, a serene 13th-century Armenian Apostolic monastery nestled in the heart of a lush forest near Dilijan. Learn about the architectural significance of the St. Astvatsatsin Church, the St. Gregory Church, and the St. Stepanos Church, as well as the stunning refectory hall, which showcases a blend of Armenian and Georgian architectural elements. Your expert guide will recount the history of the monastery's construction, its role in the religious and cultural life of medieval Armenia, and its recent renovation efforts funded by international donors. You will discover fascinating stories of the monastery's resilience through the ages, its connections to royalty, and its influence on the development of Armenian monastic architecture. The tour is comprehensive yet paced to allow contemplation and photography within this tranquil forest setting.
Engage with the natural beauty surrounding the Haghartsin Monastery on a half-day hiking adventure. Starting from the town of Dilijan, this 4-hour trek will lead you through verdant forests, over hills, and past crystal-clear rivers. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the local flora and fauna, as well as the history of the region, including its significance in medieval Armenia. The hike concludes with a tour of the monastery, where you can indulge in the serenity and marvel at the well-preserved frescoes and stonework. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply enjoy leisurely walks in nature, this hiking trip promises an invigorating experience that combines physical activity with cultural enrichment. Participants should be prepared for moderate physical exertion and are encouraged to bring appropriate gear and water.
Capture the ethereal beauty of Haghartsin Monastery during a dedicated photography workshop. Designed for both amateur and professional photographers, this workshop provides a unique opportunity to learn from a skilled photographer while exploring the artistic and historical riches of the monastery. Over the course of an afternoon, participants will be guided through techniques for shooting architecture and nature, understanding light and shadow, and composing powerful images. The monastery's intricate stone carvings, khachkars (stone crosses), and the surrounding woodlands provide an array of subjects to help hone your photography skills. Additionally, the workshop includes a short class on post-processing to ensure that the final images reflect the majesty of the site. Participants should bring their own camera equipment and be prepared for mild walking.
Seek spiritual solace and mental clarity with a full-day meditation retreat at the Haghartsin Monastery. Surrounded by the forested tranquility of the Tavush Province, the monastery offers the perfect backdrop for guided meditation and quiet reflection. Participants will engage in multiple meditation sessions under the guidance of an experienced instructor, learning techniques to focus the mind and restore inner peace. Between sessions, there will be short breaks for walking meditation in the forest and a vegetarian meal reflective of monastic simplicity. This retreat is open to both beginners and advanced practitioners looking to deepen their meditation practice. In addition to developing mindfulness skills, attendees will gain practical knowledge of the monastery’s spiritual heritage, leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and serenity.
Discover the traditional art of Armenian pottery in this hands-on workshop held in the scenic area surrounding Haghartsin Monastery. During this 3-hour class, an expert potter will teach you the basics of working with clay, molding techniques, and the history of ceramics in the region. Participants will create their own piece of pottery, such as a decorative plate or cup, drawing inspiration from the monastery's designs and the natural beauty of the Dilijan National Park. This activity is an excellent way to engage with the local culture, and you will take home more than just a souvenir; you'll take home a skill that has been part of Armenia's artistic heritage for centuries. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the class includes all materials. Your creations will be fired and can be shipped to your home for an additional cost.
Savor the flavors of Armenia with a culinary experience just outside the walls of Haghartsin Monastery. During this half-day activity, you will participate in a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef. Learn how to prepare traditional Armenian dishes such as dolma (stuffed grape leaves), lavash (a thin flatbread), and khorovats (Armenian barbecue). The class emphasizes the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and provides insight into the cultural significance of each dish. Following the cooking class, enjoy a feast of your creations in a picnic setting with picturesque views of the monastery and its environs. This gastronomic journey is perfect for food lovers and those interested in learning about the culinary traditions passed down through generations in Armenia.
Delve into the ancient art of cheese making at a local farm near Haghartsin Monastery. This 4-hour workshop takes you through the process of making traditional Armenian cheeses, such as Chanakh and Lori. Working alongside a skilled cheesemaker, you'll first tour the farm to understand the origins of the dairy products and meet the animals whose milk is used. Then, step-by-step, you'll participate in the cheese-making process, from curdling the milk to molding and aging the cheese. As you learn about the different techniques and regional variations, you'll witness how Armenia's natural environment influences the final flavor of the cheese. The workshop concludes with a tasting session, where you can sample a variety, accompanied by locally produced honeys and wines.
Embrace the peaceful atmosphere of the Haghartsin Monastery by participating in a candle making workshop. This 2-hour activity is set in the serene surroundings of the monastery's gardens, where you'll learn about the ancient craft of candle making—one that has significant symbolic meaning within Armenian spiritual life. Under the guidance of an experienced artisan, you'll use natural beeswack to create your own candles, incorporating herbs and flowers from the local area to add fragrance and a unique touch. The process is meditative and satisfying, reflecting the calm and contemplative nature of monastic life. Participants will take home their handcrafted candles, along with the skills to continue this tranquil hobby at home.
Awaken your artistic spirit with an icon painting workshop set in a studio overlooking Haghartsin Monastery. This 3-hour workshop introduces participants to the centuries-old tradition of Armenian religious iconography. Guided by a master icon painter, you’ll learn about the symbolism and techniques used in creating these sacred images. The instructor will provide a brief history of icon painting in Armenia, followed by hands-on instruction where you will paint your own icon on wood, using traditional methods and materials. This workshop not only provides an understanding of an important cultural art form but also allows you to create a meaningful piece of art to take home.
Stimulate your creativity and learn about Armenia’s rich tradition of stone carving by attending a workshop in the vicinity of Haghartsin Monastery, amid the towering forest-covered mountains. A local artist with specialized knowledge of Armenian inscribing techniques, such as khachkar (stone cross) creation, will lead this 3-hour workshop. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the tools and processes involved in carving stone, focusing on the intricate patterns and symbolic motifs that define Armenian stonemasonry. By the end of the workshop, you will not only have learned about the importance of stone carving in Armenian heritage but will also have crafted your own small stone piece to serve as a lasting memento of your visit.
Beaches (1)
Religious Places (13)
Historical Places (69)
Museums (18)
National Parks (4)
Forts (1)
Villages (10)
Mountains (6)
Gardens (1)
Dams (3)
Lakes (5)
