What to see in Vayots Dzor province of Armenia?

Today, we are making our way to the province of Vayots Dzor to learn what to see while there. In case something from the list below interests you, you can visit that place by yourself, but if you prefer to meet new people, there are different tour operators in Armenia that organize these trips. 

Vayots Sar

I will start with the hill of Vayots Sar, which is an extinct volcano (I like to call it a volcano that does not burn) and is located on the border of the cities of Vayk and Yeghegnadzor. Its height is 2581 m. From the top of the hill, you can see a crater (volcanic cone) with a depth of about 125 m. If you decide to make a trip to the volcano, it promises to be full of adventures and unforgettable emotions, in particular for those who like hiking. From above, you can admire the scenery of the surrounding hills and mountains. 

Vayots Sar is nice in all seasons. In wither, when there is snow, you can also ski down the hill. If you are planning to get to the crater by car, then it is possible to do it only with 4X4 vehicles. 

Smbataberd Fortress

Smbataberd is a fortress, the name of which is translated as a fortress of Smbat, who was the Prince of Syunik. From its three corners, it is surrounded by huge cliffs. They say Smbataberd was built in the 5th century. Even back then, they had a clay pipe to receive the water exactly like in the Amberd fortress. Currently, you can see only the ruins of it, as it passed through a number of invasions by the Seljuk Turks and Mongols. 

Proshaberd (Boloraberd) Fortress

Another fortress in the province of Vayots Dzor is Proshaberd, that was founded by the prince Prosh in the 13th century. It occupies an area of 1-1,5 hectares.  The fortress is close to the village of Vernashen, a very famous one for its wine.  On the other hand, the ruins of the fortress are in a close to the church of Spitakavor. Boloraberd also had its own water supply system. They say that the price kept the treasures of his family in the surrounding area and left signs following which he could find them. No one found it yet, so you have the chance to find the treasures. 

St. Spitakavor Monastery

The church of St. Spitakavor belongs to the 14th century and was built by two princes of the Proshyan family. It was a cultural, educational and spiritual center. The main buildings were destroyed during the invasions of Lenk Temiur, and later also Ak-Koyunlu and Kara Koyunlu. However, the church remains standing.

This is a small list of things to see in Vayots Dzor province. Among the above-mentioned places, you will definitely enjoy visiting Noravank Monastery, which is one of the treasures of Armenia.