Ararat Province, south of Yerevan, takes its name from the iconic mountain that dominates its horizon. A fertile stretch of the Ararat Plain, it is home to one of Armenia’s most emblematic sites and a long winemaking tradition.

Khor Virap Monastery

Khor Virap is arguably the most famous vantage point over Mount Ararat. According to tradition, Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here for thirteen years in the 4th century, in a pit still visible today. Located about 32 km south of Yerevan, just a hundred meters from the closed Turkish border, the monastery stands amid vineyards and green pastureland.

Mount Ararat, a national symbol

Although it now lies within Turkish territory, Mount Ararat remains the strongest symbol of Armenian identity. The Ararat Plain offers some of the best views of its two snow-capped peaks, Greater and Lesser Ararat.

A land of vineyards

The fertile Ararat Plain, irrigated by the Araks River, has long been an important wine and fruit-growing region, contributing to the reputation of Armenian brandy and spirits.

Practical information

Access: About 45 minutes by road from Yerevan.
Best time to visit: Year-round, with clearer views of Ararat more common in spring and autumn.
Note: The border with Turkey is closed, though access to the site remains open on the Armenian side.