Yerevan

Capital

Republic of Armenia

October 17, 2012

Armenia is best described as a landlocked, mountainous country.

If you are a 1^st Century King, or a 4^th Century Priest, you naturally choose a mountain top or mountain side for your spiritual home.

The Hellenic Garni Temple was built by King Trdat I and dedicated to Mitra, the sun god.  The temple stands atop the Avan Gorge, carved by the Azat River below. 

The Geghard Monastery, named after the holy lance that pierced Christ’s side at the crucifixion, stands above a steep canyon.   Remarkably, the chapels are hewn from raw rock.