Levon

Description

Deep beneath the Armenian village of Arinj lies [Levon’s Divine Underground](https://sailingstonetravel.com/levons-divine-underground/), a mesmerizing maze of hand-carved chambers that feels more like an ancient sacred crypt than a modern creation. This remarkable underground sanctuary was painstakingly chiseled over 23 years by one determined man – Master Levon Arakelyan. Using only hand tools and unwavering dedication, he transformed the basement of his home into an intricate network of caves extending 21 meters below ground.

The sheer scale and artistry of this underground marvel stops visitors in their tracks. Smooth walls adorned with intricate religious carvings and sculptural details showcase Master Levon’s exceptional vision and craftsmanship. Multiple chambers branch off in different directions, each with its own character and purpose. The space exudes an almost mystical quality, with shafts of natural light filtering down through strategic openings to illuminate the carefully crafted spaces below.

Key Features

• Hand-carved chambers reaching 21 meters underground
• Intricate religious motifs and architectural details throughout
• Multiple interconnected rooms and passages
• Natural lighting system through strategic openings
• Smooth, precisely carved walls and ceilings
• Religious symbols and sculptural elements
• Cool, consistent underground temperature
• Original hand tools used by Master Levon on display
• Family photos and historical documentation
• Guided tours by Master Levon’s wife who shares personal stories

Best Time to Visit

You can explore this underground wonder any time of year since the temperature stays pretty steady down there. That said, I’d suggest coming between April and October when the weather’s nice up top – makes the whole experience more enjoyable. The caves are open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, but try getting there earlier in the day when the natural light streaming in through the openings creates this amazing atmosphere underground.

And here’s a pro tip: weekday mornings tend to be quieter, giving you more space to really soak in the details without bumping into other visitors. The light’s particularly gorgeous during mid-morning hours when it filters down through those strategic openings Master Levon created.

How to Get There

Getting to Levon’s Divine Underground is pretty straightforward. The site sits in Arinj, just a short drive north of Yerevan. Your best bet is grabbing a taxi from Yerevan – it’ll take about 20 minutes and won’t break the bank. If you’re feeling adventurous, local marshrutkas (minibuses) run this route too, though they might require a bit more patience and local know-how.

For those who prefer more flexibility, renting a car is always an option. The roads are decent, and having your own wheels means you can combine this visit with other nearby attractions. Just punch “Levon’s Divine Underground” into your GPS and you’ll find it without much trouble.

Tips for Visiting

First off, wear comfy shoes with good grip – you’ll be dealing with stone stairs and uneven surfaces. Bring a light jacket too, even in summer, as it stays cool underground. The entrance fee is 1500 drams (super reasonable if you ask me), and they offer discounts for kids.

Photography is allowed, but you might want to bring a camera that handles low light well – your phone’s flash just won’t do these incredible spaces justice. And speaking of spaces, some passages can be a bit narrow, so if you’re claustrophobic, you might want to stick to the main chambers.

Take your time down there – this isn’t a place you want to rush through. The details in the carvings are incredible, and each room has its own story. Master Levon’s wife often guides visitors, sharing personal insights about her husband’s two-decade journey creating this underground masterpiece.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out the collection of original tools used to carve these caves – it really drives home the incredible human effort behind this place. While you’re welcome to explore on your own, I’d strongly recommend taking a guided tour. The personal stories really bring the whole place to life.

The site can get busy during peak tourist season, so arriving early or later in the afternoon might give you a more peaceful experience. And if you’re planning to take lots of photos (trust me, you will), consider bringing a tripod for those low-light shots.

You know what’s cool? Each visit helps support the maintenance of this unique site and the family that maintains it. It’s one of those rare places where you can literally touch the result of one person’s extraordinary vision and dedication. Master Levon might not be with us anymore, but his underground sanctuary stands as a testament to human determination and creativity.

Location

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