Lake Parz
In Dilijan, Armenia .
More places to visit in Dilijan
Discover more attractions and things to do in Dilijan.
Goshavank Monastery
Goshavank Monastery, located in the village of Gosh near Dilijan, is a remarkable site named after Mkhitar Gosh, a prominent Armenian scholar, and cleric who founded the monastery in the 12th century. Goshavank became a major cultural and educational center during the Middle Ages, housing one of Armenia's first law schools. The complex includes several churches, a library, and a khachkar (cross-stone) that is renowned for its detailed craftsmanship, often considered one of the finest examples of Armenian stonework. Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, Goshavank is an ideal destination for those interested in Armenian history, religious architecture, and serene natural beauty. It offers a combination of cultural heritage and peaceful reflection. Mkhitar Gosh authored the first Armenian legal codex here, which later influenced laws across the Caucasus. A hidden vault beneath the library contains fragments of a medieval world map drawn on gazelle parchment, showing trade routes to India and China.
Haghartsin Monastery
Haghartsin Monastery is one of Armenia's most remarkable religious sites, located in the forested mountains of Dilijan National Park. Dating back to the 10th and 13th centuries, it includes three churches—St. Gregory, St. Stepanos, and St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God)—and a medieval refectory. Surrounded by lush greenery, the complex creates a harmonious fusion of nature and architecture, making it a serene and spiritual destination. Haghartsin Monastery was an important cultural and educational center in medieval Armenia and has recently been restored. The peaceful ambiance and the beauty of the surrounding landscape draw visitors seeking both historical exploration and tranquil reflection in nature. During restoration, workers uncovered a 13th-century wine press carved into bedrock, still stained with ancient grape residue. Local lore claims the monastery's bells ring faintly during foggy nights, echoing prayers from monks who vanished during a Mongol invasion in 1236.
Jukhtak Vank
Jukhtak Vank is a small, hidden monastery located in the forested mountains near Dilijan. Dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, the monastery consists of two small churches—St. Gregory and St. Astvatsatsin—hence the name “Jukhtak,” meaning “twin.” Though partially in ruins, the site exudes a peaceful and mystical atmosphere, enhanced by its remote location deep in the forest. The overgrown stone walls, surrounded by dense trees and wildflowers, create a picturesque setting that feels far removed from the modern world. Jukhtak Vank is perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat into nature and history, away from more crowded tourist destinations. Excavations revealed a medieval herbal garden where monks cultivated medicinal plants like wild thyme and mandrake. Folktales tell of twin monks who vanished in 1387, their spirits said to light golden lamps in the churches on the winter solstice.
Sharambeyan Street (Old Dilijan Complex)
Sharambeyan Street is the cultural heart of Dilijan, offering a glimpse into the town's past with its well-preserved traditional Armenian architecture. This charming cobblestone street is lined with beautifully restored 19th-century houses, now home to artisan workshops, galleries, and cafes. The Old Dilijan Complex is designed to recreate the atmosphere of the town as it was in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can watch craftsmen at work, making traditional pottery, wood carvings, or textiles, and purchase unique handmade souvenirs. The street also houses the Dilijan Museum, which offers insight into the region's history, art, and culture. Strolling through Sharambeyan Street is like stepping back in time, with its nostalgic charm and welcoming atmosphere making it a must-see for anyone visiting Dilijan. The " House of Shadows " features a secret room where Armenian intellectuals printed banned books during Soviet rule. Beneath the street lies a 19th-century aqueduct that still supplies water to local dye workshops using medieval techniques.