Areni-1 Cave

The Areni-1 Cave Consortium was founded in May 2017, uniting the Armenian “Areni-1 Cave” Research Foundation and the U.S.-based Gfoeller Renaissance Foundation.

Since 2001, the consortium has funded and organized archaeological research in Armenia, including the discovery, excavation, preservation, and promotion of historical monuments. Special attention is given to preserving the genetic diversity of Armenia’s traditional grape varieties and safeguarding its winemaking heritage.

Since 2018, the Areni-1 Research Foundation has launched a tourism development program for the Areni-1 (Birds’) Cave, while also studying the broader archaeological heritage of the Arpa River Valley. Dozens of previously unknown sites have been uncovered—fortresses, ritual monuments, economic complexes, ancient canals, and lake remnants.

The research reveals the ancient economic landscape of Vayots Dzor—particularly viticulture, animal husbandry, crafts, rituals, and the use of natural resources—offering insights that are of great interest to visitors.

The foundation also works across several fields: scientific research, culture, environmental protection, community development, and information dissemination. Its core mission is to preserve and promote archaeological heritage through science-based tourism, turning research data into valuable public knowledge.

The ultimate goal is to ensure a complete cycle—from discovery and documentation to conservation, promotion, and infrastructure development. Areni-1 Cave stands as a successful model of this approach.