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Zorats Karer: Armenia's Ancient Stone Circle

Explore Zorats Karer, Armenia's mysterious prehistoric stone circle, also known as the Armenian Stonehenge, near Sisian.

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Zorats Karer, also known as Karahunj, is a prehistoric archaeological site near Sisian, Armenia, often called the "Armenian Stonehenge". The site features over 200 standing stones, some with mysterious holes, arranged in a circular pattern. It is believed to be an ancient observatory or ritual site dating back thousands of years.

A brief summary to Zorats Karer

  • H22H+MF5, Sisian, AM
  • Monday 6 am-11:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-11:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-11:30 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-11:30 pm
  • Friday 6 am-11:30 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-11:30 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-11:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the autumn months for the most pleasant weather, as summers in the Syunik region can be very hot.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions such as Tatev Monastery and Shaki Waterfall for a full day of exploration.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the site. Tours are available in Armenian, English, and Russian.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Sisian, the most convenient way to reach Zorats Karer is by taxi. Taxis are readily available in Sisian, especially near the bus station. A taxi ride from Sisian to Zorats Karer typically costs around 2,500 AMD to 3,000 AMD. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Zorats Karer by public transport, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Sisian towards Goris or Yerevan and ask the driver to stop near Zorats Karer. From the highway, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the site. The marshrutka fare from Sisian to the highway near Zorats Karer is approximately 200 AMD. Be mindful of the infrequent marshrutka schedule.

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Discover more about Zorats Karer

Zorats Karer, located near the town of Sisian in the Syunik Province of Armenia, is a captivating prehistoric site shrouded in mystery. Often referred to as the "Armenian Stonehenge," this megalithic complex consists of over 220 standing stones, some of which feature intriguing circular holes. The site spans seven hectares and is set against the backdrop of the Zangezur mountains. Scholars and researchers have proposed various theories regarding the purpose of Zorats Karer. One prevailing theory suggests that it served as an ancient astronomical observatory, with the holes in some stones aligning with celestial bodies. This alignment may have been used to track astronomical events like solstices, equinoxes, and lunar cycles. Another theory suggests that the site was a necropolis, dating from the Middle Bronze Age to the Iron Age. Discoveries of bronze jewelry, beads, and pottery fragments support this idea. The name "Zorats Karer" translates to "Stone Army" or "Worrier Stones" in Armenian, while "Karahunj" means "Speaking Stones". The latter name is attributed to the whistling sound produced when wind passes through the holes in the stones. Walking among these ancient stones, visitors can feel a powerful connection to Armenia's rich and enigmatic past. Despite the differing interpretations, Zorats Karer remains a significant symbol of Armenia's ancient civilization, offering a unique glimpse into early ritualistic and astronomical practices. The site invites contemplation and wonder, leaving visitors to ponder the mysteries of its origins and purpose.

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