Charents Arch is a stone monument and Mount Ararat viewpoint near Voghjaberd, on the road from Yerevan to Garni. Its curved opening frames the Ararat Plain and, when visibility is good, the mountain’s two peaks.

The arch makes an easy stop for a short walk and photographs before continuing to Garni and Geghard. Allow around 15–20 minutes for a visit, with extra time if you want to wait for changing light or clearer views.

Charents Arch, view of Ararat through the archway

Quick Facts

Built / Founded: 1957
Architects: Rafael Israelyan
Location: Voghjaberd village, Kotayk Province
Also known as: Arch of Charents, Charents' Arch, Arch of Ararat, Temple of Ararat
From Yerevan: About 15 km / 25 minutes
Entrance fee: Free entrance
Time needed: 10–15 minutes
Best time to visit: Clear days; mid-morning to early afternoon for Ararat visibility
Status: Cultural monument
GPS coordinates: 40.1736505, 44.6366073

History of Charents Arch

Designed by Armenian architect Rafael Israelyan, the monument was built in 1957. It is dedicated to Yeghishe Charents, one of Armenia’s best-known poets, whose writing celebrated his homeland and Mount Ararat.

Dark exterior stone contrasts with the warm-coloured tuff around the inner arch. Lines from Charents’s poetry are carved into the monument, connecting the view of Ararat with his literary legacy. The compact structure leaves the landscape as the main focus.

What to See at Charents Arch

Walk up to the arch and look through the opening towards Mount Ararat. Then step back to photograph the monument as part of the wider landscape. Different positions let you include either the full structure or the mountain framed by stone.

Look for the carved inscription and take a moment to enjoy the panorama across the plain. Even if clouds hide Ararat, you can still see the architecture and surrounding scenery, though the classic mountain photograph depends on clear conditions.

When to Visit

Visit in daylight and choose a day with good visibility if Ararat is your main reason for coming. Cloud and haze can hide the mountain even when the weather nearby seems pleasant. There is no single hour that guarantees a clear view.

The viewpoint is exposed, so bring water and sun protection in summer and an extra layer in cooler weather. Watch your footing after rain or snow. If another group is taking photographs, a short wait may give you a clearer view through the arch.

Charents Arch monument viewed from the foot of the stairs

What to Visit Nearby

Charents Arch fits naturally into a trip to Garni Temple, the Symphony of Stones and Geghard Monastery. Together, these stops combine an ancient temple, basalt formations in Garni Gorge and a medieval rock-cut monastery.

Allow at least half a day for the route, with more time for lunch or a longer gorge walk. Our Garni and Surroundings guide explains the main stops and helps you choose a manageable itinerary.

How to Get to Charents Arch from Yerevan

Drive from Yerevan towards Garni and look for the viewpoint near Voghjaberd. The distance is approximately 15–20 km, depending on your starting point. Allow around 30–40 minutes from central Yerevan, with extra time during busy traffic.

If you take a taxi for this stop alone, agree on waiting time and the return journey before setting off. For a longer outing, plan transport between the arch, Garni and Geghard in advance.

For a flexible itinerary, book a car with driver in Yerevan and agree on your stops beforehand. Alternatively, choose our Garni and Geghard tour from Yerevan, which includes a photo stop at Charents Arch.