Singing voice at Garni Temple
[ Autumn, 2005 ] Garni Temple outside of Yerevan is one of the main tourist spots in Armenia. This is a Hellenism building originally built in the first century. It was a summer resort of…
Garni
Garni is one of Armenia’s most remarkable historic destinations and one of the country’s most iconic cultural landmarks. Located about 30 kilometres from Yerevan, the village is best known for the magnificent Temple of Garni, the only surviving Greco-Roman pagan temple in the Caucasus. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and deep river gorges, Garni offers a fascinating combination of history, archaeology and spectacular scenery.
The highlight is the Temple of Garni, built during the first century AD and believed to have been dedicated to Mihr, the Armenian sun god. Its elegant Ionic columns and spectacular setting above the Azat River Gorge make it one of Armenia’s most recognisable monuments. After being destroyed by an earthquake in the seventeenth century, the temple was carefully reconstructed using many of its original stones.
Just below the archaeological complex lies the impressive Garni Gorge, home to the famous Symphony of Stones, a remarkable formation of hexagonal basalt columns created by volcanic activity. This unique geological landscape is one of Armenia’s most photographed natural attractions.
Garni is usually combined with a visit to the nearby Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into the rock. Travellers exploring Armenia also frequently include Yerevan, Noravank and Karahunj on the same itinerary.
The village is also an excellent place to experience Armenian cuisine. Visitors can watch the traditional lavash bread being baked in underground tonir ovens before enjoying authentic local dishes.
With ancient history, stunning landscapes and living traditions, Garni is one of Armenia’s essential travel destinations.
