One of the most unforgettable destinations of our sightseeing tours is the visit to the pagan temple Garni - the oldest and the most unique attraction of Armenia, built in the 1st century AD. by King Trdat I (66–88).
The temple is located in the village carrying the same name in the Kotayk region of Armenia.
The building dedicated to the sun god Mihr is one of the famous monuments of the pagan and Hellenism era in Armenia. An evidence to this are the Greek inscriptions found on the mosaics of the temple. Garni is made of smooth basalt blocks, outside the structure is surrounded by columns and the skillful basalt carvings testify how skillful the Armenian architects were.
For many years, Garni served as the official summer residence of the kings. The temple has survived, despite the adoption of Christianity by Armenia in 301. However, as a result of a strong earthquake in 1679, the temple was almost completely destroyed. From 1966 to 1976 it was restored.
At present here one can see the remains of the ancient fortress and the royal palace with Hellenistic mosaics, as well as a third-century bathhouse.
Today, you can see the remains of an ancient fortress.
An excursion to the pagan temple is included in the programs of both one-day and multi-day tours.
The tour program includes departure from Yerevan to the Kotayk region, a stop at the Arch of Charents, a visit to the Garni pagan temple and the natural monument “The Stone Symphony”, as well as lunch and the ceremony of baking traditional Armenian bread - lavash.