Book Description
This new Bradt guide will be the first English-language guide to cover the Caucasian country of Armenia in depth. Armenia was the world's first nation to adopt Christianity as the official state religion (in 301 A.D.), resulting in an astonishingly well-preserved legacy of monastic buildings, often set in magnificent locations--such as clinging to the side of steep gorges. Other historic attractions include Bronze Age standing stones, believed to have been used for astronomical observations and medieval castles. These are just some of the wonders of a country which for much of the last 2,000 years has been ruled by outsiders, with Persians, Ottomans, Arabs, and Russians all having left their imprint. Armenia is more than an add-on country for visitors to Georgia or Azerbaijan. Author Nicholas Holding shows that Armenia is a destination worth visiting in its own right. His guide has thorough coverage of accommodations, eating out, and sightseeing in the capital, including half-day and full-day excursions from Yerevan, visits to the enclave of Nagorno Karabagh, plus both an introduction to the natural history and an in-depth section on the history of Armenia.


From the Back Cover
Armenia is renowned for its medieval monasteries and fortresses, often clinging precariously to the sides of deep river gorges. Admire too its legacy of exquisite stone carvings, including the field of 900 cross-stones at Noratus, and the magnificent collection of illuminated manuscripts in Yerevan.
This guide is the first in English to offer comprehensive information on travel in Armenia. With thorough coverage of the capital, Yerevan, and highlights such as Selim caravanserai, the fortress of Smbataberd and the monastery of Noravank, it is the indispensable guide to a fascinating country.
Inside you will find information on: full and half-day excursions from Yerevan; the territory of Nagorno Karabagh; history of the first country officially to adopt Christianity; useful words and phrases; 24 clear maps, including monasteries; architecture, wildlife, religion and culture.


About the Author
Nicholas Holding is a consultant engineer who has traveled widely with his job. His personal interest in eastern European history, natural history, and religion has led to extensive travel in the region, including a number of visits to Armenia.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Armenia is renowned for its medieval monasteries and fortresses, often clinging precariously to the sides of deep river gorges. Admire too its legacy of exquisite stone carvings, including the field of 900 cross-stones at Noratus, and the magnificent collection of illuminated manuscripts in Yerevan. This guide is the first in English to offer comprehensive information on travel in Armenia. With thorough coverage of the capital, Yerevan, and highlights such as Selim caravanserai, the fortress of Smbataberd and the monastery of Noravank, it is the indispensable guide to a fascinating country.

SYNOPSIS