Your Travel Experience with Finest Journeys
Garni Temple - Symphony of Stones - Yerevan
Today begins with a trip to Garni, where you can explore the Pagan Temple built in the 1st century AD. This is the only temple from the Pagan era that has survived in Armenia, dedicated to the god Mihr, associated with cleanliness. The temple was destroyed by an earthquake in 1679 but was restored in 1975. Next, we’ll drive to the Symphony of Stones, located near Garni. This stunning basalt rock formation has been shaped by nature over centuries. The rocks in the gorge have taken on various columnar shapes, resembling a natural orchestra of standing stones, which gives the area its name. Afterward, we’ll visit a local house to participate in the preparation of lavash, the traditional Armenian flatbread. Lavash is thin and usually made in large sheets, traditionally cooked in a ground oven known as a “tonir.” In 2015, lavash was inscribed on UNESCO's intangible heritage list. We’ll enjoy a simple yet delightful lunch of lavash and cheese. Following lunch, we will return to Yerevan and visit Vernissage, a lively open-air market in the heart of the city. Here, local artists, craftsmen, and vendors showcase a diverse range of handmade crafts, traditional Armenian art, souvenirs, jewelry, carpets, ceramics, and other unique items.