Armenia is a trove of history, littered with crumbling churches perched in spectacular settings. Landscapes transition rapidly from lush forests to shimmering lakes and stark deserts. But the best thing about Armenia is the Armenians themselves - ever welcoming and eager to show off their country to visitors.

Christianity arrived in 301AD and Armenia proudly calls itself the world's oldest Christian nation. Its kings once held lands as far away as Syria and the Black Sea coast. Lying on the Silk Road and wedged between Persian, Turkish and Russian empires, the country has seen its share of passing merchants, holy men and armies. Since the break up of the Soviet Union Armenia has seen a revival of nationalism and traditional culture.

The capital Yerevan is the nation's hub of cultural activity and progressive thought. The city sports impressive museums and a lively modern arts scene. Cafe culture has been perfected and it's de rigueur to spend inordinate amounts of time lingering over bottles of Armenian cognac. Armenian food is another treat - always served hot and fresh you can expect mounds of grilled meats and vegetables straight from the nearest garden.

Visitors will find mysterious stalactite caves, forgotten stone carvings and small villages that have barely entered the 21st century. Just when you think you've seen everything another old monastery pops up on the horizon.

For more information, please, refer: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armenia

ARMENIAN HOLIDAYS:

New Year (Amanor)
(official holiday)
January 1

Christmas (Surb Tsnund)
(official, religious holiday)
January 6

Saint Sargis
(religious holiday)
February 7

Purification (Trndez)
(religious holiday)
February 14

Women’s Day
(official holiday)
March 8

Palm Sunday (Tsaghkazard)
(religious holiday)
April 5

Motherhood and Beauty Day
(official holiday)
April 7

Easter (Zatik)
(religious holiday)
April 12

Genocide Victims Memorial Day
(official holiday)
April 24

Victory and Peace Day (World War II)
(official holiday)
May 9

Ascension Day (Hambartsum)
(religious holiday)
May 21

Day of the First Republic
(official holiday)
May 28

Constitution Day
(official holiday)
July 5

The Transfiguration (Vardavar (The feast of water))
(religious holiday)
July 19

Grape Blessing Day
(religious holiday)
August 12

Holiday of St. Mary
(religious holiday)
August 16

Holy Cross (Khachverats)
(religious holiday)
September 13

Independence Day
(official holiday)
September 21

Holy Translators Day (Targmanchats ton)
(religious holiday)
October 13

Day of Remembrance of Victims of the 1988 Earthquake
(official holiday)
December 7