The ‘‘Zarni-Parni‘‘ cave castle complex is located in a picturesque forest canyon with a delightful panorama view of the Kayan fortress not far from the village of Haghpat renowned for its unique monastery complex in the Province of Lori.
The historical complex consists of the ‘’Zarni er’’ and‘’Parni er’’ castles, as well as the ‘’Tsak er’’ cave. According to some historical records the XI-XIIc. great scholar and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser lived and worked in this cave.
These historical monuments had been buried under thick layers of soil and dense forest vegetation. The completely restored area was made into a historical museum that features hundreds of unique exhibits, agricultural tools and equipment and a great number of other articles representing the culture and daily life of the local people.
The complex houses traditional vineyards, a winery and a tavern. Visitors can enjoy Armenian national dishes and world famous as well as local wines, try out archery and crossbow shooting, play darts and chess, watch national games and buy souvenirs.
Evening time can be well "spiced" with a splendid view from the observation deck over a bonfire (at an additional cost of 10 000 AMD).