Old Khot: Armenia's Ancient Cliffside Village

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.