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Mendz Er Cave: A Fusion of History, Culture, and Cuisine

Explore ancient history, savor local flavors, and enjoy breathtaking views at Mendz Er Cave in Alaverdi, Armenia.

4.5

Mendz Er Cave, nestled near Alaverdi, Armenia, is more than just a cave; it's a unique ethnography museum, restaurant, and recreation center. Once a pre-human settlement and later a goat pen, it now offers visitors a chance to explore Lori's history, enjoy local cuisine, and admire stunning views of the Debed Canyon.

A brief summary to Mendz Er Cave

  • Սանահին/Սարահարթ, Alaverdi, 1705, AM
  • Visit website
  • Monday 11 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-10 pm
  • Friday 11 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven cave surfaces and exploring the surrounding area.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Debed Canyon and the unique cave formations.
  • Try the local Armenian dishes at the restaurant for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries for a comprehensive cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Alaverdi central bus station, take a minibus (marshrutka) towards Sanahin. Inform the driver you wish to stop near Mendz Er Cave. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes. From the drop-off point, follow the trail up the hillside to the cave entrance. A single marshrutka fare is around 100 AMD.

  • Taxi

    From the center of Alaverdi, a taxi to Mendz Er Cave costs approximately 1000 AMD. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via a ride-hailing app. The ride is short, about 5km, and offers a direct route to the cave entrance.

  • Walking

    From the center of Alaverdi, walk along Tigran Mets Street towards the intersection with Sarahart Street. Turn left onto Sarahart Street and walk for 15-20 minutes. Look for signs leading to Mendz Er Cave and a path up the hillside on your right, which leads to the entrance. The walk is uphill and takes about 30-40 minutes.

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Discover more about Mendz Er Cave

Mendz Er Cave, located in the Lori Province of Armenia near Alaverdi, offers a multifaceted experience that combines history, culture, and gastronomy. This natural cave, situated on the road to Sanahin, has a rich past, serving as a pre-human settlement, a hiding place, and even a goat pen. Today, it has been transformed into an ethnography museum and restaurant complex. Inside the cave-museum, life-size mannequins dressed in traditional garments depict various periods of Lori's history and customary professions. A maquette showcases the 200-year-old metallurgical Alaverdi forge and the Alaverdi bridge. The cave also features samples of 9th-10th century artifacts, furniture, and vases, providing insights into the lifestyle of ancient Lori inhabitants. Beyond its historical exhibits, Mendz Er Cave offers a restaurant serving delicious, locally-sourced Armenian cuisine. Visitors can savor traditional kebabs, fresh salads, and homemade pizzas while enjoying the cave's cool, earthy ambiance. The cave also functions as a recreational center, offering activities such as yoga and meditation. The location provides stunning views of the Debed Canyon, the city of Alaverdi, and the surrounding mountains and valleys. Nearby attractions include the Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries, Akhtala Monastery, and the Sanahin Old Bridge.

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