Goris is one of the most distinctive cities of southern Armenia, located in Syunik Province in the valley of the Vararak River and surrounded by the Zangezur Mountains. The city lies at an average elevation of about 1,385 meters above sea level. Deep valleys, rocky hills and unusual natural stone formations give the surrounding landscape a character that is immediately recognizable.
The present-day city was developed on the right bank of the river in the 1870s. Unlike many Armenian towns that grew gradually around older streets, central Goris is known for its orderly street plan and characteristic one- and two-story stone houses with arched gateways, balconies and stone walls. These architectural features have become an important part of the city’s identity.
Across the river lies Old Goris, also known as Kyores, the historic predecessor of the modern city. The area preserves cave dwellings, traditional stone architecture and traces of an ancient settlement built into the rocky landscape. Cave settlements are a characteristic feature of this part of Syunik and were once complete communities where people lived for generations.
Goris is also an important base for exploring southern Armenia. Nearby are Old Khndzoresk with its cave settlement and suspension bridge, Tatev Monastery, the Vorotan Gorge and other historic villages of Syunik. The city itself has museums and cultural institutions connected with notable Armenian writers and artists, including writer Aksel Bakunts and novelist Sero Khanzadyan.
Basic Information:
Province: Syunik Province
Altitude: approximately 1,385 m above sea level
Population: approximately 17,113 residents according to the 2022 census
Climate: mountain climate with snowy winters and warm summers. Average temperatures are around −1.3°C in January and +19°C in July, with annual precipitation of roughly 500–600 mm.
Main Attractions:
Old Goris (Kyores) cave settlement
Historic center of Goris
Traditional stone houses and arched gateways
Goris Geological Museum
Aksel Bakunts House Museum
Sero Khanzadyan House Museum
St. Gregory the Illuminator Church
Nearby Old Khndzoresk
Nearby Tatev Monastery
Zangezur mountain landscapes
Interesting Facts:
The modern city of Goris was developed in the 1870s, while the surrounding area had been inhabited for centuries before that. Old Goris preserves cave dwellings and historic stone structures that show how settlements once adapted directly to the rocky terrain. The city’s planned streets and traditional stone architecture make it unusual among Armenian regional towns. Goris was also historically positioned on important routes through Syunik, linking communities across the mountainous south of Armenia.
Best Time to Visit:
April–May — fresh spring greenery and mild temperatures.
June–September — warm weather and good conditions for exploring the city and surrounding mountains.
September–October — pleasant temperatures and autumn colors.
Winter — snowy mountain scenery and a quieter atmosphere.