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If you have done the things to do in Turkey, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Ani.
Wander through the ancient ruins of Ani, a city frozen in time.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ani:
1. Ani Cathedral
Ani Cathedral is a medieval Armenian cathedral located in the abandoned city of Ani, near the border of Turkey and Armenia.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the cathedral, which was built in the 10th century and features intricate carvings and decorations.
The cathedral was one of the largest and most impressive churches in the medieval world, and its remains are a testament to the glory of the Armenian Kingdom of Ani.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the cathedral’s intricately carved tympanum, which portrays Christ and the symbols of the four evangelists. Visitors can also climb to the top of the cathedral’s bell tower for a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: The city of Ani is located in a disputed border zone between Turkey and Armenia, and visitors should exercise caution when visiting the site.
It is recommended to travel with a guide and to obtain the necessary permits and permissions from local authorities. Additionally, the weather in the area can be unpredictable, so visitors should prepare for cold and windy conditions.
2. Ani Fortress Walls
Ani Fortress Walls are the remains of a medieval city wall that surrounds the ancient city of Ani, located in present-day Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk along the remaining sections of the fortress walls to get a sense of the city’s grandeur and strategic importance.
The walls offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into the city’s fascinating history.
Don’t miss: Make sure to stop at the Seljuk-era city gates, which are intricately decorated with bas-reliefs and offer a glimpse into the artistic and architectural styles of the time.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Ani Archaeological Site Museum before exploring the fortress walls to get a better understanding of the city’s history and significance.
Be prepared for a bit of a hike as the fortress walls are situated on a steep hillside. Wear comfortable shoes and be cautious when walking along the narrow paths atop the walls.
3. Church of St Gregory of Tigran Honents
The Church of St Gregory of Tigran Honents is a medieval Armenian church located in the ancient city of Ani, which is now a ghost town situated in the extreme eastern end of Turkey.
What to see or do: The church is an example of the architectural and artistic achievements of the Armenian Kingdom of the Bagratides and is renowned for its intricate carvings and ornate decoration.
Visitors can view the unique Armenian architecture of the church, which is characterized by a conical dome and circular galleries.
Don’t miss: Make sure to look for the beautiful stone carvings that depict scenes from the life of Jesus and saints. The entrance of the church is flanked by carvings of St.
Peter and Paul, while the tympanum over the portal features a representation of Christ.
Insider travel tips: To experience the full impact of the church, it is often recommended to visit at sunrise or sunset, as the light casts dramatic shadows over the church and surrounding plains.
Additionally, be aware that some parts of the church might be restricted from visitors so it’s always good to check at the entrance before starting your tour.
4. Church of the Holy Redeemer (Surb Prkich)
Church of the Holy Redeemer, also known as Surb Prkich, is a medieval Armenian church located in the ancient city of Ani, in modern-day Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate architectural design, including the unique triangular pediments above the entrance and apse. Explore the interior with its decorative frescoes and ornate carvings.
Don’t miss: The views from the church grounds offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and other ancient ruins.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions for photography. Wear sturdy shoes as the church is situated on uneven ground.
Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen as there is limited shade on the grounds.
5. Kümbet Mosque
Kümbet Mosque is a historical monument located in the ancient city of Ani, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the intricate structure of Kümbet Mosque, marvel at the unique brickwork, and observe the mosque’s beautifully designed dome ceiling.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the mosque’s stunning exterior, which features intricate stone carvings and a beautiful glazed tile finish.
Insider travel tips: It is best to visit Kümbet Mosque early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the mosque.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beauty of this historical monument. Additionally, visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
6. Ani Bridge
A historic stone bridge located in the Çıldır district of Turkey.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive local stone architecture, which features a series of graceful arches and ornate carvings. Ani Bridge is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the warm glow of the fading sun illuminates the ancient stone.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to take a stroll across the bridge and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding countryside. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also swim or fish in the nearby Çoruh River.
Insider travel tips: If you want to get the best views of the bridge and the surrounding landscape, try visiting early in the morning or late in the evening, when the light is at its most dramatic.
Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes if you plan on exploring the area around the bridge, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven in places.
7. Church of St Gregory of Abughamrents
Church of St Gregory of Abughamrents located in Ani, an ancient city in modern-day Turkey.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and ornate decoration that cover this beautiful church. Admire the impressive dome and semi-circular apse.
Don’t miss: The unique carvings of musicians and dancers in the exterior walls of the church.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the best lighting for photography.
Bring a guidebook or hire a local guide to appreciate the historic and cultural significance of the site.
8. Church of Tigran Honents
The Church of Tigran Honents is an impressive medieval structure located in the ruins of Ani, which was once a thriving city in Eastern Anatolia.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the church, marveling at its unique architecture and impressive stone carvings. The interior features stunning frescoes, some of which have managed to survive the centuries.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take your time exploring the ruins of Ani, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region.
Don’t miss the chance to climb the city walls for a spectacular panoramic view.
Insider travel tips: The site can be quite busy with tourists, especially during peak season, so plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes as much of the site is on uneven surfaces. Bring sunscreen and water, as there is not much shade on the site.
9. Minuchihr Mosque
A historic mosque located in the ancient city of Ani, Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the unique architecture of the Minuchihr Mosque. Admire the intricate details of its façade, including the carved stone decorations and ornate Arabic calligraphy.
Step inside the mosque and marvel at its grand prayer hall and beautiful mihrab.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the nearby Ani archaeological site, a once-thriving medieval city that is now an abandoned ghost town.
Take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and imagine what life might have been like in this ancient city.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable footwear as the mosque and archaeological site require a lot of walking.
Additionally, if you plan to visit the site during the summer months, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the area can get quite hot.
Finally, consider hiring a local guide to get the most out of your visit and learn more about the area’s rich history.
10. Church of the Holy Apostles
The Church of the Holy Apostles is a Armenian church located in the ancient city of Ani in northeastern Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the unique architecture of the church. The church is made up of four large pillars and has a tall dome that stands out from a distance.
Marvel at the intricate designs carved into the walls and ceilings of the church.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the unique blend of Armenian and Georgian architectural styles that can be found in the church. Also, take the time to visit the nearby ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the city.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit to Ani during the spring or fall to avoid large crowds and hot summers.
It’s also a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes as the city is large and there is much to explore.
Additionally, hire a local guide to learn more about the rich history of this ancient city.
11. Ani Cemetery
Ani Cemetery is a medieval cemetery located in Ani, Turkey, containing the remains of over 1,000 years of history.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ancient headstones, mausoleums, and tombs in this haunting and atmospheric graveyard.
The cemetery is located within the walls of Ani, an important city during the medieval period and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Church of the Redeemer, a 12th-century structure with stunning frescoes and intricate stonework.
The church was used as a mass grave during the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and still bears the scars of that tragic time.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to experience the beauty and stillness of this eerie cemetery. Wear comfortable shoes, as the area is rocky and uneven.
Also, be respectful of the historic nature of the site and be mindful of the gravestones as you explore.
12. Chapel of the Forty Martyrs
Chapel of the Forty Martyrs is a 10th-century Armenian church located in the ghost city of Ani, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at its unique architecture, intricate carvings, and ancient frescoes.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the ornate khachkar, a type of Armenian memorial stele, located outside of the chapel.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the quieter hours of the day to experience the peacefulness of this historic site. Also, don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes as Ani is a vast area with many ruins to discover.
13. Palace of the Bagratuni Kings
Palace ruins of the Bagratuni Dynasty, an ancient Armenian kingdom that ruled from the 7th to 11th century AD.
What to see or do: Explore the remains of the palace, including the throne room, chapels, and reception halls. Admire the intricate carvings and design elements that reveal the architectural and artistic influences of the time.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the palace’s elevated position. Be sure to bring your camera to capture stunning photos of the surrounding ruins.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the palace is located on uneven terrain that can be challenging to navigate. Consider hiring a local guide to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the site.
Also, make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the region can get very hot during summer months.
14. Church of St George
The Church of St. George is a medieval Armenian church located in Ani, a now abandoned city in Eastern Turkey near the Armenian border.
What to see or do: The Church of St. George is a stunning example of Armenian architecture with intricate stonework and ornate carvings.
Visitors can explore the interior of the church and admire its beautiful frescoes and murals.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the unique stone crosses that can be found on the exterior of the church, which are characteristic of Armenian religious architecture and are also found at other sites in Ani.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Church of St.
George early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds of tourists that tend to visit during midday.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the site can be uneven and rocky in parts.
15. Governors Palace
A historic palace located in Ani, Turkey, built during the Bagratid Armenian kingdom in the 10th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the intricate carvings and architecture of the palace, including the throne room, audience hall, and bathhouse. The surrounding views of the ancient city of Ani and the nearby Arpaçay valley are a must-see.
Don’t miss: The beautifully decorated walls, featuring intricate murals and frescoes, are a highlight of the palace.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit the palace early in the day to avoid crowds and to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
There are also guided tours available to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there is a fair amount of walking involved in exploring the palace and surrounding areas.