Armenia to Establish Four New Cultural Heritage Sites
Armenia is set to create four new cultural reserves around some of the country’s most significant historical landmarks: Ereruyk Temple, Old Khndzoresk cave settlement, Berdkunk Fortress, and the Noratus khachkar cemetery.
The decision was approved during the latest meeting of the Government of Armenia.
Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan reminded that in recent years, similar steps have been taken to create reserves around other iconic sites, including the Bjni Fortress, Smbataberd, Dashtadem, and the ancient capitals Dvin and Artashat. With this new initiative, these monuments will be preserved and enhanced: visitors will be able to enjoy small cafés, guided tours, and better infrastructure.
Improved Roads and Preservation Efforts
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan supported the project, highlighting that many cultural monuments in Armenia currently suffer from poor road access or remain largely unknown to the public.
He also emphasized that ticket sales for these sites will provide additional funds for the preservation and maintenance of Armenia’s cultural heritage. Importantly, not only religious sites but also secular monuments are being restored and opened to tourists.
About the New Cultural Sites
Ereruyk Temple – One of the most notable early Christian churches on Armenian territory, dating back to the 6th century. It is located near the Turkish border, opposite the ruins of the ancient Armenian capital of Ani.
Berdkunk Fortress – Situated on the shores of Lake Sevan, this fortress has origins in the 2nd millennium BC. It was rebuilt in various eras and considered impregnable on three sides, surrounded by preserved trenches totaling 275 meters in length.
Noratus Khachkar Cemetery – Located near the town of Gavar by Lake Sevan, this medieval cemetery is famous for its hundreds of unique khachkars (cross-stones). The nearby Noratus village also houses a 9th-century church.
Old Khndzoresk Cave Settlement – Near the town of Goris, this historic village consists of caves carved into the cliffs, inhabited until the 1950s. It features rock-hewn churches from the 17th–18th centuries and was a key stronghold of Mkhitar Sparapet, leader of the Syunik resistance against Ottoman and Persian forces in the 18th century.
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