FAQ
Areni-1 Cave FAQ
Get fast answers about opening hours, shoe history, and getting there from Yerevan.
Where is the world's oldest winery located?
It is located inside Areni-1 Cave in the Vayots Dzor Province of Armenia. The site dates back roughly 6,100 years to 4100 BCE.
What is the history of Areni-1 Cave?
The cave is a Late Chalcolithic and Early Bronze Age site. Systematic international excavations began in 2007. Archaeologists found ancient fermentation vats and burial pits.
How old is the shoe found in Areni Cave?
The leather shoe is 5,500 years old. It is the oldest intact footwear ever found.
How to get from Yerevan to Areni-1 Cave?
You can drive south on the M2 highway for 2 to 2.5 hours. You can also take a marshrutka toward Yeghegnadzor or book a full-day guided excursion. Check Plan your visit for details.
How much is the entrance fee for Areni Cave?
Basic unguided entry tickets cost 1,000 AMD. A guided cave visit costs 1,500 AMD. Students and children enter for 200 AMD.
Is Areni-1 Cave also known as Birds' Cave?
Yes. The site is often referred to locally as Birds' Cave.
Do I need a guide to visit Areni-1 Cave?
A guide is not mandatory. You can pay 1,000 AMD for basic entry. However, a guided ticket is only 1,500 AMD and helps explain the complex trenches.
What should I wear to visit Areni Cave?
Wear closed-toe walking shoes with good grip. Bring a warm jacket, as the cave remains cool year-round. Read Packing Guide for a full packing list.
Is the original 5,500-year-old shoe still in the cave?
No. The original 5,500-year-old shoe is now kept in the History Museum of Armenia in Yerevan. You will see the discovery site inside the cave.
How long does it take to tour the Areni Cave?
A standard visit takes between 45 to 60 minutes.