Category: Small Group Discoveries

Dramatic mountains, centuries-old monasteries, astonishing stonework architecture, and ancient vineyards may sound like the dreamy ingredients of a European country long on your bucket list. But point your compass eastward, past the minarets of Turkey and the shores of the Black Sea, and you’ll discover the mesmerizing South Caucasus Mountains, where the most eastern of Europe and the most western of Asia meet. And best of all, it’s where tourist crowds are thin. That means you can step into an untrammeled Old World and experience it at its most authentic.

Here, amidst high plateaus, sleepy villages, alpine peaks, and friendly residents, Armenia and Georgia boast simple ways of life and rich cultures steeped in cherished traditions. During our new Armenia & Georgia Discovery, our small group lets us take our time and drink it all in at the slow and carefree pace of the locals. We’re excited to bring you to these enriching countries as they open their doors to Western travelers, providing you a rare opportunity to witness a fascinating part of the world.

Exactly what makes Armenia and Georgia so remarkable? Their people, to start. Their location where Europe and Asia meet has long made these nations objects of desire among empires, occupying strategic border lands. Indeed, it is only recently that each country has come into its own as fully sovereign. When you consider this, it is a wonder that Armenians and Georgians welcome visitors from other lands at all. But welcome you they will, with a glass of local wine or brandy, genuine warmth and sincerity, and a hearty “Genats!,” or “Cheers!”

To understand these inspiring nations, you need only turn to their histories, sometimes linked and sometimes distinct.

Armenia’s Christian Soul Weaves through Its Past

At its height, between 95 and 66 BC, Armenia was the most powerful kingdom east of the Roman Empire. Christianity arrived here quite early – around the year 40. Armenia was the first country to officially declare Christianity its state religion, in 301, which explains the remarkable 4th-century churches. It’s easy to imagine that religion kept locals grounded and gave them faith during many centuries of shifting rule, whether by the Umayyad Caliphate, the Byzantine Empire, the Mongol Empire, or the Ottoman Empire. For about 200 years, the nation was split in two: Ottomans ruled Western Armenia while Persians ruled Eastern Armenia.

In the 1890s, Christian Armenians began pushing for rights in an increasingly Muslim land. The sultan’s response to the resistance earned him the nickname “Bloody Sultan.” It was a mere prelude to the darkest chapter in the nation’s history: During World War I, tensions between the Ottoman Empire and the Russian Empire often boiled over in the Caucasus. For their part, Ottomans grew suspicious of Armenians as many had volunteered to support the Russian army. Countless locals were killed or forced into labor or deportation across the Syrian desert, where they faced certain death. Some estimate that more than a million perished during what has become known as the Armenian Genocide.

At war’s end, Armenia was re-united as U.S. President Woodrow Wilson drew up the nation’s new borders during treaty negotiations. The region came to be known as “Wilsonian Armenia” because of his efforts. But independence was short-lived: The Soviet Union annexed Armenia in 1922. Ironically, this brought a period of relative calm to the people, except during Stalin’s anti-Christian reign. It wasn’t until 1991 that Armenia once again declared its independence, thanks in large part to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Armenia’s timeless pleasures of today. Rustic and dream-like, Armenia retains much of its Old-World atmosphere. Carpets are still woven by lifelong weavers. Brandy is distilled in a facility that’s been operating since the 1800s. Artisans create handicrafts much as they have for centuries in the gingerbread village of Dilijan. And the unique strains of the duduk, the Armenian oboe, fill the air.

At most every dinner table, khoravats, or skewered pork or lamb, is passed around, fresh off the fire. It’s just one example of a Levantine-influenced cuisine. Another, lavash, the traditional bread, is still baked using a generations-old technique. Eggplant, bulgur, and legumes such as chickpeas and lentils also make frequent appearances and nuts like walnuts and pistachios and fruits like apricots and quince may be added to favorite dishes for texture, flavor and color.

Georgia: A Nation “Blessed by God”

When you lay eyes on the soaring alpine vistas and hushed Caucasus villages of Georgia, you may well understand how it is that Georgians believe their country is blessed by God.

The ancient region of Colchis in today’s western reaches of Georgia was the fabled home of the Golden Fleece sought by Jason and the Argonauts. Another struggle played out here, as well. For some 700 years, rivalry and war persisted between the Roman Republic (which pre-dated the Roman Empire) and Persia. The instability opened doors for many small kingdoms and dynasties to take root. But one rose to prominence and power: The Bagrationi family ruled until the early 19th century, making it one of the longest-reigning Christian dynasties in the world. It presided over Georgia’s 11th-century Golden Age, when the nation saw advances in military and cultural pursuits, claiming great territorial victories and seeing the creation of great architecture, literature and art.

Mongol and Persian attacks destabilized the region, causing its collapse in 1466. As happened in Armenia, Persians moved in to rule Eastern Georgia and Ottomans moved in to rule Western. Russia later annexed the east in 1801 and expelled the Persians from the west during the Russo-Persian War. Russia lost control briefly during the Bolshevik Revolution but regained it when the Red Army marched on Tbilisi in 1921. Later, native son of Georgia Joseph Stalin went on to lead the Soviet Union. Locals were so proud to see one of their own rise to such power that many fought against Khrushchev’s de-Stalinization policies after Stalin’s death.

Georgia declared its independence in 1991 as the Soviet Union dissolved. After, conflicts erupted between Russia and Georgia over some Black Sea territories but came to an end in 2008 when Russian president Medvedev removed his forces.

Beautiful—and flavorful—vestiges of Georgia’s past. Ancient tradition blends with a deep spirituality in today’s Georgia. The Old Town of Tbilisi, the capital straddling the Kura River, is nothing short of wondrous, brimming with rich reminders of its central place along the Silk Road. Medieval, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, Stalinist and modern structures intermingle throughout the city, making for strolls that reveal one curiosity after another. The imposing walls of the Narikala Fortress oversee it all from its lush hillside setting.

Georgia is one of the world’s oldest wine regions. Grapevines were cultivated in the Caucasus as long as 8,000 years ago. Its viniculture is considered inseparable from national identity. The traditional winemaking method, still in use today, employs Kvevri clay jars, large, egg-shaped earthenware vessels that are buried underground for fermentation. The resulting wine is best enjoyed during a supra, an hours-long feast in which an enormous variety of dishes is served.

Fascinating history and warm cultures. They tell only a fraction of Armenia’s and Georgia’s remarkable stories. We hope you’ll join us to discover more. Call to reserve our new Armenia & Georgia Discovery today!

An Armenian folktale goes like this: The invading army of Timur of the Timurid Dynasty appeared on the horizon close to the Noratus Cemetery near Lake Sevan. Upon seeing the oncoming troops, villagers set to work placing helmets on top of the burial site’s tombstones and propping swords against them at a visible angle. From a distance, the marauders were convinced they would be met by an immovable foe, ready to hold their front without mercy. Fearing for his slaughter, Timur retreated. And so it was that the dead saved the living.

Your small group will visit the Noratus Cemetery during our new Armenia & Georgia Discovery, where you are sure to hear the tale again. Here, you will also come to understand how these grave markers became the stuff of legend. You see, these are no ordinary tombstones: These are sacred khachkars, also known as Armenian cross-stones, a piece of local culture and history so important and central to Armenia’s identity that they have been recognized on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

What sets them apart is their intricate and extraordinary design. A decorative cross has been carved into each one, further adorned with a rosette or solar disc, floral and botanical motifs, and lace-like patterns that tie it all together. Biblical figures might also be present. These incredibly artistic stone carvings embody medieval Christian Armenian art at its pinnacle.

The most intricate and detailed Khachkar carving reached its peak between the 12th and 14th centuries, though the earliest one is thought to have been created as early as 879. They have had many purposes through the centuries: to save the soul of the deceased, to commemorate a military triumph, to mark the construction of a church, and to fend off natural disasters. Many were specifically created as tombstones. But many others have been erected at monastery sites and built into church walls.

The Mongol invasion led to their decline and they have never returned to their former artistic glory. About 40,000 remain today; about 900 of various styles and from various periods are at Noratus Cemetery where, if you use your imagination, you may be able to see Timur and his army retreating into the distance.

Join us on Discovery Tours’ Armenia & Georgia Discovery small group tour.

Cathedrals are perched on hillsides like crowns. Brick bathhouses shaped like domes invite you to take in their sulfuric waters and a spa treatment or two. A vibrant arts scene and café culture blow away the dusty and stultifying traditions of a Soviet past. All this, while medieval fortress walls stand watch from a formidable hillside. This is Tbilisi, the emerging, exciting—and ever-evolving—capital of The Republic of Georgia.

Yes, staunch Christian and Georgian traditions run deep here, very deep. But the city and its welcoming people are embracing a 21st-century sensibility in fast form. One need only look as far as the city’s stunning new architectural projects to understand that Tbilisians are looking ahead, while the 4th-century fortress walls of Narikala serve as a ubiquitous reminder of the past.

The Bridge of Peace is the city’s centerpiece, connecting Old Tlibisi to Rike Park, a brilliant stroke of urban design shaped like a map of Georgia. A giant grand piano, a choreographed musical fountain and, for kids of all ages, a climbing maze lure families and others to the outdoors. As for the Peace Bridge, its bow-like shapes of curved steel and glass canopy illuminate each night with a light show of 1,000 LED lights.

Nearby, in the Abanotubani district, traditional bathhouses made from brick have provided relief and rub downs for centuries to locals. You can join them under the houses’ distinctive dome roofs, soaking in the sulfuric waters in gender-separated pools or in private rooms with steaming tubs.

Browse Old Tlibisi’s winding cobbled streets, leaning churches and pastel balconied houses to get a sense of yesterday’s Georgia. Crafts shops invite you to take your time here and soak in the medieval ambiance. More treasures are waiting to be discovered at the Dry Bridge Flea Market on Dry Bridge, where Soviet-era trinkets, traditionally woven Caucasus rugs, silver jewelry and more are for sale. And the city’s celebrated art cafés provide a spot to linger over quality dishes surrounded by vintage designs and colorful, provocative paintings. Be sure, too, to sample wines from the world’s oldest viniculture. Tasting rooms feature selections of vintages aged underground in clay pots.

But native Tbilisians need not worry that their cultural heritage will unravel amid an increasingly commercial and modern vibe. After all, Narikala Fortress is not alone as it lords over this ever-changing city. A modern cable car delivers you to the outcropping upon which it rests. Nearby, the 66-foot-tall statue known as Kartlis Deda, also called “Mother Georgia,” also keeps watch. She holds a chalice of wine in one hand for her friends and a sword in the other for her enemies. We think she would gladly offer the wine to her fair city as it continues to evolve into the 21st century under her gaze.

We hope you will join us on Discovery Tours’ new Armenia & Georgia Discovery small group tour.

The cultural heritage of Armenia and Georgia reaches back to ancient times. Perhaps because of their proximity to the Holy Land, they were the earliest countries to embrace Christianity as the official religion, in the early 4th century. Faith was so central to daily life that dozens upon dozens of monasteries were built amid awe-inspring mountains and valleys, villages and cities. In our small group, we access 8 of these most sacred of places.

In Armenia:

Geghard (4th century). This UNESCO World Heritage Site was partially carved into a rocky mountainside. Gregory the Illuminator, who is credited with converting the country to Christianity, built the monastery where sacred waters sprung from inside a cave. Its original name, Ayrivank, means “Monastery of the Cave,” while the current name translates into “Monastery of the Spear,” referring to the Crucifixion weapon which wounded Jesus and was later brought here by the Apostle Jude. Seemingly carved from the cliffs, it is an astonishing and inspiring sight.

Khor Virap (7th century). Because of its proximity to Mt. Ararat – the peak on which Noah’s Ark is said to have landed after the floods subsided – Khor Virap is one of Armenia’s most visited pilgrimage sites. Set on a hill in the Ararat plain with crystal-clear views of Noah’s mountain, this is where, centuries before the church was built, Gregory the Illuminator healed the King of Armenia, Tiridates III, who went on to convert his country.

Noravank (13th century). This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in a narrow gorge carved by the Amaghu River. The gorge’s brick-red cliffs create an otherworldly setting for this historic monastery. Soon after its opening, it houses the region’s bishops and subsequently became a major gathering place for religious, cultural, and academic pursuits. Noravank’s stone carvings and rust-hued architecture feature highly artistic flourishes that take the breath away.

Tatev (9th century). Perched on a rocky outcropping, Tatev has played a vital role in the culture and heritage of Armenia. Here, in the 14th and 15th centuries, the University of Tatev educated students in science, religion, philosophy, and the arts. In those days, visitors had to hike far distances to get here; today, you will reach its heights via the “Wings of Tatev,” the world’s longest non-stop double-track cable car.

Haghpat (10th century). Located on a green hillside in a mountainous amphitheater, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is hailed as one of the highest expressions of Armenian ecclesiastic architecture. A center of learning in the Middle Ages, its church remains much as it was when it was constructed. The scriptorium still has holes in its floor, used to hide valuable scrolls when marauders and thieves came calling.

In Georgia:

Alaverdi (6th century). Set in an emerald valley against the drama of alpine peaks, Alaverdi boasts the second tallest cathedral in Georgia (the tallest is in the capital, Tbilisi). When the Assyrian monk Joseph Alaverdeli arrived here and founded his monastery, he had to be sure-footed: the village’s pagan population worshipped the Moon. Alaverdi is located in the world’s oldest wine region; still today the monks who live here make their own.

Ikalto (6th century). Founded by a group of 13 Assyrian missionaries who came to Georgia from Mesopotamia to spread Christianity, Ikalto became a bustling center of culture and learning. All manner of studies took place here in the 12th century, contributing to the Renaissance-like Golden Age of the region – from theology to astronomy, philosophy to geometry, wine making to pharmacology.

Jvari (6th century). Dramatically perched atop a hill, this UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooks the small town of Mtskheta. Its origin seems to rest in the 4th century, when a female evangelist, Saint Nino, raised a large wooden cross on the hilltop where a pagan temple once stood. The cross is said to have performed miracles, which attracted pilgrims from throughout Caucasus.

No matter your beliefs, these ancient monasteries inspire – with their dramatic settings, their innovative architecture, their intricate decoration, and their perseverance over a long and sometimes turbulent past. We know you’ll discover some inspiration of your own during our new Armenia & Georgia Discovery small group tour. Join us.