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Orbelian's Caravanserai: A Silk Road Haven

Step back in time at Orbelian's Caravanserai, a Silk Road haven in Armenia's Vayots Dzor, offering a glimpse into medieval history and architecture.

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Orbelian's Caravanserai, also known as Selim Caravanserai, is a remarkably well-preserved 14th-century inn that once provided shelter for weary travelers crossing the Vardenyats Mountain Pass in Armenia. Built by Prince Chesar Orbelian in 1332, this historical landmark offers a glimpse into medieval Armenia and the bustling trade routes of the Silk Road.

A brief summary to Orbelian Caravanserai

  • 11 Yerevanyan Hwy, Yeghegnadzor, 3601, AM
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring a historical site with uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a jacket, as the caravanserai is located at a high altitude and the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Take your time to admire the architectural details, including the carvings at the entrance and the vaulted roof.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in the Vayots Dzor region, such as Noravank Monastery or Smbataberd Fortress.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Yeghegnadzor, the Orbelian's Caravanserai is approximately a 40-minute drive. Head north on the M2 highway. The road to the Caravanserai is well-maintained. There is no entrance fee or parking fee.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Yeghegnadzor. A one-way trip to Orbelian's Caravanserai will cost approximately 7,000-8,000 AMD. Agree on the price with the driver before you start your journey. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transport to the Caravanserai, you can take a marshrutka (minibus) from Yeghegnadzor towards destinations north. Ask the driver to drop you off at the turn-off for the Caravanserai. From there, it's approximately a 5-6 km walk. Marshrutka fares within the region are typically around 200-700 AMD.

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Discover more about Orbelian Caravanserai

Nestled high in the Vayots Dzor Province of Armenia, Orbelian's Caravanserai stands as a testament to the region's rich history and strategic importance along the ancient Silk Road. Constructed in 1332 by Prince Chesar Orbelian of the Orbelian Dynasty, the caravanserai, also known as Selim Caravanserai, provided a safe haven for merchants, travelers, and their animals traversing the treacherous Vardenyats Mountain Pass. At an elevation of 2,410 meters (7,910 feet), the caravanserai offered respite from the harsh mountain climate and served as a vital trading post between Europe and the East. Its sturdy basalt construction, featuring a single hall divided into three naves supported by seven pairs of polyhedral pillars, provided ample space for animals and travelers. Stone troughs between the pillars served as feeding stations for the animals, while separate rooms offered accommodation for the weary merchants. The roof's vaulted design, complete with oculi for sunlight and ventilation, added to the caravanserai's unique architectural character. Today, Orbelian's Caravanserai stands as the best-preserved caravanserai in Armenia, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. The structure underwent restoration between 1956 and 1959, preserving its original medieval elements. As you explore the site, imagine the bustling atmosphere of centuries past, where merchants from different cultures exchanged goods and stories, leaving their mark on this historic landmark. The entrance, adorned with carvings of winged creatures and bulls, hints at the artistic details that once graced the caravanserai.

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