Areni-1 Cave: Cradle of Winemaking and Ancient Discoveries
Explore the ancient world in Areni-1 Cave, home to the oldest winery and a 5,500-year-old leather shoe, nestled in Armenia's historic Vayots Dzor region.
Areni-1 Cave, nestled beside the Arpa River near Areni village in Armenia's Vayots Dzor region, is a captivating journey into the ancient past. This multi-component site, also known as Bird's Cave, gained prominence in 2007 when excavations began, revealing a treasure trove of Chalcolithic (Copper Age) and Early Bronze Age artifacts. The cave's fame rests on several key discoveries. The most notable is the world's oldest known winery, dating back approximately 6,100 years. Evidence of wine production, including grape remains, storage vessels, and a wine press, paints a vivid picture of early viticulture. This discovery solidified Armenia's claim as the birthplace of wine. Adding to the cave's allure is the 2008 discovery of the world's oldest leather shoe, dating back 5,500 years. The remarkably preserved shoe, found under a pile of sheep dung, now resides in Yerevan's History Museum of Armenia. Other significant finds include a 3,900-year-old straw skirt and the oldest known humanoid brain. Excavations revealed that the cave served various purposes, from habitation and animal shelter to winemaking and ritual practices. Burial sites discovered within the cave suggest ceremonial significance, possibly related to honoring the deceased. Today, Areni-1 Cave is open to visitors, offering guided tours that delve into its rich history and showcase the artifacts left in situ.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the cave terrain can be uneven.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the cave's unique geological formations and historical artifacts.
A brief summary to Areni-1 Cave
- 46, # 6 Str, Areni, 3604, AM
- +37455514008
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Yerevan, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Yeghegnadzor or Vayk from Kilikia Bus Station. Inform the driver you wish to stop at Areni village. The bus ride costs around 1000 AMD. From the Areni bus stop, you can walk (approx. 1.5km) or take a taxi to Areni-1 Cave. A taxi from the village center to the cave should cost around 1000 AMD.
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Taxi
From Yerevan, a taxi to Areni-1 Cave takes approximately 1.5 hours and costs around 15,000 AMD. Alternatively, from the town of Areni, taxis are available near the marshrutka drop-off point. The fare to the cave is about 1000 AMD.
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Car
From Yerevan, drive south on the M1 highway towards Vayots Dzor. Take the Areni village exit after approximately 90 km. Follow signs to Areni and then to Areni-1 Cave, located at 46, #6 Str, Areni. Parking is available near the cave entrance.
