HISTORICAL CILICIA 10 DAYS

Departing from Yerevan and passing through the Bavra checkpoint, we enter Georgia (Javakhk) from where we pass along the shores of the Tsovakn Hyusiso (Childir) lake, passing through Sarikamish forests and Alashkert fields to the banks of Van. The overnight is a beautiful town, Tatvan on the banks of Lake Van.

Passing through Bitlis-Baghesh, we will reach Sasun, after which we will make our way to an exclusive place. We have heard a lot about Tigranakert, the capital founded by Tigran the Great, but its location was disputed until recently. We know the exact location, and you will be one of the few who will visit this historically valuable site (not to be confused with Silvan-Nprkert, which was previously considered one of the options). We will also visit the impressive and colorful city Mardin.

And here we will reach Diyarbekir (another Tigranakert), where we will see the Tigris River, the historical Bridge and the legendary walls of the city. The visit to St. Kirakos Armenian Church of Diyarbekir, is particularly exciting. Soon we will cross the Euphrates River to make our way to Nemrut of the Old Gods.

A wonderful day awaits us. First, we will go to Portasar ancient site. This mysterious place is not only incredibly impressive, but also considered the oldest religious monument in history. Another historical city is waiting for us, the unique Edesia, which nowadays is known as Urfa. Here we will see the Sacred Fish Pool, where, according to the legend, Abraham fought. If the group wants, we can sail on the river Euphrates, seeing the wonderful and impressive Hromkla Fortress. The end of the day is in Aintab.

To the heroic Musa mountain, to the shores of the Mediterranean, but before that, one of the interesting examples of Armenian church, St. Astvatsatsin in Aintab, awaits us. From here, through the beautiful corners of Cilicia and Antioch, we will go to Musaler to see the only Armenian village in present-day Turkey, the village of Vagif on Mount Musa. Here we will also see the legendary tree of Moses.

From Mount Musa to the most powerful fortresses of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia: Levonkla, Sis, Anarzaba. Those who wish can climb the hard-to-reach and fortified fortresses of Levonkla and Sis, as well as admire the panoramic view of Anarzaba. After overcoming the fortresses, passing through Adana, we will reach another wonder, Korykos, on whose golden sandy shores we will enjoy a full day the next day.

It is wonderful when you are relaxing on the golden sandy beach of the Mediterranean Sea, and when Korykos, one of the most powerful fortresses of Cilician Armenia, is right in front of you, on the island, the picture is perfect. Let's enjoy our rest and get ready for new discoveries.

In the morning, those who wish can once again swim in the Mediterranean Sea, after which, passing through the historical Tarsus, we will already be on our way to the magical Cappadocia, where we will see many interesting rock wonders. We will see mushroom-shaped rocks typical of Cappadocia, ancient castles, and you can use your free time to walk, visit local museums and interesting places. Those who wish can board the famous hot air balloons at sunrise and enjoy Cappadocia from the height of a bird's flight.

After breakfast, we will leave for Kayseri (Caesarea) and Erzincan (Yerznka). In Caesarea, we will see the famous Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator, which is a functioning Armenian church with distinctive architecture. After Caesarea, we will pass through the city Sebastia, where we will see the historical Bridge. From Sebastia, we will go to Yerznka, where we will see the impressive waterfall of Yerznka.

On the way back from Yerznka, we will pass through the world of Karno, after which our way will pass through Olti, where we will see the mighty fortress of the place. A stop is planned in Ardahan to visit the fortress of Ardahan and see the Kura river. Only after all this, taking with us rich memories and impressions, will we return to Yerevan.