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Old Khot: Armenia's Ancient Cliffside Village

Explore Old Khot, Armenia's ancient village carved into the cliffs of the Vorotan Gorge, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

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Often called the 'Armenian Machu Picchu,' Old Khot is an abandoned village in Armenia's Syunik region, dating back to the 2nd century BC. Nestled in the Vorotan Gorge, its stone houses appear to grow out of the surrounding cliffs, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

A brief summary to Old Khot

  • C8JJ+CWQ, Khot, AM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain in Old Khot is uneven and involves a lot of walking.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and natural scenery.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful exploration.
  • Check the local weather forecast before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Goris, walk north on Tigran Mets Street toward the main bus station. Continue for about 1 km until you reach the intersection with the road to Khot. Turn left onto the road toward Khot and follow it for approximately 8 km through scenic landscapes. Once in Khot village, follow signs to Old Khot, a short walk from the village center. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Goris, take a minibus (marshrutka) from the central bus station towards Khot. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. Ask the driver to let you off in Khot village, from where you can walk to Old Khot. The fare is quite affordable, typically less than 500 AMD.

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Discover more about Old Khot

Old Khot, also known as Hin Khot, is an ancient village in the Syunik province of Armenia, located near the present-day village of Khot. Perched on the steep slopes of the Vorotan River gorge at an altitude of 1500 meters, it's often compared to Machu Picchu for its dramatic setting and historical significance. Founded in the 2nd century BC, Old Khot was initially inhabited by cave-dwelling people who later constructed homes out of the rocks. The village is one of Syunik's oldest settlements, with structures that seem to rise from the cliffs themselves. In the 11th century, it was mentioned as a tax-paying settlement under the Tatev Monastery. The village was also known for its churches, including the 5th-century Khot Monastery and the 17th-century Mrgadzori Khach Church, built by an Armenian woman who escaped a Persian harem. The Red Church, dating back to the 12th century, stands in ruins in the old cemetery. Its powerful bells are said to have given the Zangezur region its name. In the 1960s and 70s, the inhabitants of Old Khot moved to a new settlement on a plateau, seeking a more accessible location with better infrastructure. Today, Old Khot is a ghost town, attracting visitors with its scenic views, historical ruins, and unique architecture.

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