Vayots Dzor is one of Armenia’s southernmost regions and it is brimming with historical sites and natural wonders to experience and explore. Situated for millennia at the crossroads of many cultures, this region contains remnants of ancient, medieval, and modern societies which dot the cultural and natural landscape. In just one short hike alone or with a local guide, you might stumble upon the remains of a medieval church or hear stories about an abandoned cemetery from the 13th century.
In recent years, researchers unearthed new discoveries about Vayots Dzor’s ancient past. In 2007, archaeologists discovered evidence, beginning from at least 6,000 years ago, that the Areni-1 Cave Complex was home to one of the earliest wine production centers in the world.
Hiking the gorgeous landscape surrounding the Areni-1 Cave Complex you will notice the unique terrain that supported millennia of human settlement. Steep gorges, flowing rivers, and pockets of lush flora, all characteristic of a dry steppe environment, fostered years of agricultural cultivation and the growth of specific grape varietals for wine production. Armenia is also a center of seismic activity, and volcanic soil creates a perfect foundation for Armenia’s vineyards, as well as rich deposits of basalt, tuff, and obsidian. For thousands of years, people have relied on these raw materials for trade, construction, and daily life. The remains of prehistoric, medieval, and modern artifacts and structures attest to this crucial symbiotic relationship with the environment.
Vayots Dzor History (Video)
Areni 1-Cave Complex (Photo by Stephanie Moore, My Armenia Program, Smithsonian
Institution and USAID
Vayots Dzor Through the Ages