The Armenian natural wonder known as the “Symphony of Stones” is nothing short of breathtaking. Nestled within the Azat River Gorge near Garni, this remarkable site rightfully earned its place on UNESCO’s list of natural heritage monuments. Towering basalt columns soar to staggering heights of up to 100 meters, a majestic testament to the dramatic cooling and crystallization of molten lava that shaped this extraordinary landscape.
In ancient times, these unique rock formations were dubbed the “Devil’s Beehives” due to their uncanny resemblance to honeycomb structures. Today, they are more commonly likened to a colossal “basalt organ,” their vertical, hexagonal “pencils” standing in perfect alignment, as if meticulously measured with a plumb line. Yet, just steps away, this geometric order gives way to a mesmerizing chaos of stones and undulating waves of rock, revealing nature’s artistic spontaneity.
An equipped trail winds approximately one kilometer through the gorge, its path mirroring the river’s meandering course. Each twist and turn unveils new breathtaking vistas and ideal spots for photography, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the symphony of shapes and shadows.
From the Symphony of Stones, it is a pleasant 1.5-kilometer walk to the ancient pagan Temple of Garni, built in the first century AD by Armenian King Trdat I. The temple stands prominently below, visible from the depths of the gorge, connecting visitors with Armenia’s rich historical tapestry.
Remarkably, similar natural marvels exist in Iceland, where basalt columns appear in numerous locations.
