21 SEP 2019
Breakfast. Check out and proceed to border Sadakhlo. Arrive and go through border formalities. Change car and meet guide and proceed to Dilijan. Enroute visit of Haghartsin and Goshavank monasteries.
Goshavank is another beacon of science and culture of ancient Armenia, Goshavank Monastery or Nor Getik where the major medieval university used to be. Goshavank was erected in 1188 on the place of ancient monastery Getik destroyed by the earthquake. The politician and outstanding scientist as well as the writer of medieval Armenia, Mkhitar Gosh, whose name was given to the monastery, took part in its construction. The monastery complex includes St. Astvatsatsin church (1196), St. Gregory church (1231), St. Gregory the Illuminator church (1241), the book-depository with belfry (1291), the school buildings, the chapel and the gallery (13 th century). The view of Goshavank is majestic.
Haghartsin complex is located high in the woody mountains, where there are eagles and the name of the monastery from Armenian is translated as “games of eagles”. The image of this proud and strong bird can often be seen on the walls of Hagartsin. For instance, sculptures on the eastern façade of the Surp Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) church depict two men in monk clothing and the eagle sitting on the dome of the church.
Continue to Dilijan, sightseeing tour in Dilijan, take a walk in the small street and see the craftsman workshops.