Lalvar is one of the most beautiful mountains in Armenia. Forested slopes, unique stone types, visibility from afar. Many impressive and valuable monuments have been created at the foot of this mountain, and from that legacy we have chosen seven, which we will call the Seven Wonders of Mount Lalvar. The seven wonders are: Khorakert, Khuchap, Sedvi, Chakhalaberd, Bgavor, Khojorni, Madan.
Khorakert Monastery
Khorakert is a 13th century monastery on the northern slope of Lalvar. The dome of St. Astvatsatsin Church is a unique example of Armenian architecture. The drum consists of 30 pillars. Khorakert, being close to the Armenian-Georgian border, is currently within the borders of Georgia. Available by special permission only.
Khuchap Monastery
The monastery of Khuchap dates back to the 13th century. In a straight line, it is about 3 km away from Khorakert and is again in the immediate vicinity of the Armenian-Georgian border, but in this case it is already in the territory of the Republic of Armenia. Khuchap Monastery is distinguished by its rich and beautiful external decoration. Available by special permission only.
Chakhalaberd Fortress
This powerful medieval fortress is the neighbor of Khuchap and Khorakert and is located at the northern foot of Lalvar. It is one of the well-preserved medieval fortresses around which was the city Bazkert. The historical name of the fortress is Bazaberd, but it is better known as Chakhalaberd among the people. Again, it is close to the Armenian-Georgian border, it is in the territory of the Republic of Armenia. Available by special permission only.
Sedvi
The Sedvi Monastery and the Fortress not far from the monastery are located in a forested area between Akori and Kachachkut villages of Lori province. St. Nshan Church of Sedvi Monastery is a 13th century structure. The Sedvi Fortress’s multi-storied tower has survived to this day.
Bgavor Church
Bgavor church is also one of the most interesting examples of medieval church construction with its unique external and internal solutions. Bgavor and Sedvi are about 2.5 km away in a straight line, at the southern foot of Lalvar, in Lori province, Armenia, between the villages of Kachachkut and Akori.
Khozhorni Church
St. Nshan Church of Khozhorni was built in the 13th century. It is again close to the Armenian-Georgian border, currently it is in the territory of Georgia, near the Armenian village of Khojorni. There are chapels and khachkars all around the church. Available by special permission only.
Village Madan
Madan stands out for its beautiful location, colorful houses and Greek church. Although the once large Greek-populated village is abandoned, it has not lost its unique charm even today.
In the case of wonders of the world, there are always contenders for the eighth wonder, and Lalvar is no exception. Jiliza, Kachachkut villages, Khozhorni Fortress, Koshaberd and generally the forested part of the mountain with its rich flora and fauna can claim the role of the eighth wonder.
Hamshen Tour organizes hiking and off road trips in all the above mentioned directions, as well as we carry out ascents to the peak of Lalvar.
