The “Zarni-Parni” is a 10th-13th centuries old cave-fortress complex, located in the Lori Province of Armenia. It is situated in a forest canyon with a magnificent view of the Kayan Fortress, near the village of Haghpat, famous for its monastery of the same name.

The complex consists of castles “Zarni Er” and “Parni Er”, as well as the cave “Tsak Er”. According to some historical records, the famous scientist and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser once lived and worked in this cave. He is one of the greatest medieval Armenian scientists, a successor to the traditions of Aristotelianism, and an outstanding thinker of his time.

There were many legends and myths about this cave until 2013, since the very location of the complex was practically not studied by archaeologists or historians, and there were only some mentions in the Armenian chronicles of different eras and in folk legends. Currently, the territory has been transformed into a historical museum, which presents a number of rare ancient agricultural tools and household items.

Here everything is subordinated to nature, everything is in eco style, from produce to household items and decoration in general. You will be completely transported back several centuries, and plunge into the color and atmosphere of those times.

The splendid monasteries of Haghpat, Sanahin, Akhtala, and the famous Sanahin Old Bridge are very close to the “Zarni-Parni” complex. Not far is another gem, the cave “Mendz Er”.

You can easily include in your itinerary the visits to the both “Zarni-Parni” complex and the “Mendz Er” cave in one set. Please, contact us at info@phoenixtour.am today - and we will arrange your trip to fit perfectly within your budget and given timeline.