Armenian Alphabet Alley

The slopes of Aragats are home to a series of striking landmarks, offering more than just high-altitude treks. These places can enrich the experience of a climb—or stand on their own for those who prefer to explore the mountain’s beauty without hiking to the summit.

On the outskirts of the village of Artashavan, at the southeastern foot of Aragats, lies a unique memorial complex dedicated to the Armenian script—one of the oldest writing systems still in use. Created between 405 and 406 AD, the Armenian alphabet predates Cyrillic, Arabic, and even the modern Latin alphabet.

The centerpiece of the site is a collection of 39 monumental letters carved from orange volcanic tuff. Set against the backdrop of Aragats, these letters are arranged in an open-air formation that combines linguistic heritage with monumental sculpture. At the head of the site stands a statue of Mesrop Mashtots, the monk and scholar who invented the alphabet and remains one of Armenia’s most revered figures.

Each of the 39 stone letters is etched with visual motifs linking it to Armenia’s historical, cultural, and spiritual identity. These carvings are layered with meaning, and with a knowledgeable guide, their symbolism becomes a readable story. For visitors, deciphering these elements adds depth to the visit—and makes it more than a photo stop.

Still, the spot is famously photogenic. One popular tradition is to find the first letter of your name in Armenian and take a picture beside it—something many travelers now see as an essential part of the Aragats experience.

Above the stone walkway, there’s a modern chapel constructed from glass and marble. Next to it stands a cross, composed of hundreds of smaller metal crosses, created to mark the 1700th anniversary of Armenia’s adoption of Christianity. Each year, a new copper cross is added. When the wind picks up, the structure hums with a resonant, high-pitched sound—recalling the notes of a distant bagpipe.