Old Zovuni is one of the most atmospheric historic landscapes around Aparan Reservoir, where the ruins of an abandoned settlement and early Christian monuments meet the changing shoreline of the lake.
Before the reservoir was created, the Kasagh River valley contained villages, agricultural land, cemeteries, and religious monuments. Parts of this older landscape now survive close to the water.
The best-known monument associated with Zovuni is Saint Poghos-Petros Church, an important early Christian structure dating to the 5th century.
The church represents an early stage in the development of Armenian ecclesiastical architecture and has undergone major structural changes during its long history.
The surrounding area also preserves an old cemetery, the Tukh Manuk shrine, and a memorial traditionally associated with Vardan Mamikonyan.
The changing water level of Aparan Reservoir gives the landscape a different appearance throughout the year. During periods of lower water, more of the former valley floor and historic remains may become visible.
The ruins create an unusual relationship between archaeology and modern infrastructure: centuries-old religious monuments now stand beside a large 20th-century reservoir.
Old Zovuni can be combined naturally with a visit to Aparan Reservoir, nearby hiking routes, and the wider historic landscape of northern Aragatsotn.
For photographers, the site is especially striking when stone ruins are reflected in the reservoir or surrounded by seasonal grasslands and mountain scenery.
Late spring and autumn can offer particularly atmospheric combinations of water, ruins, clouds, and distant mountain silhouettes.
Visitors should be cautious around unstable ruins, muddy shoreline areas, and sections affected by changing water levels. Historic masonry, gravestones, and archaeological remains should not be moved or climbed on.