Areni-1 Cave: the birthplace of wine 6,100 years ago in Armenia
The Areni-1 Cave, also known simply as "the Areni Cave", is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Located in the village of Areni, in the province of Vayots Dzor (Armenia), this cave holds evidence of the oldest known wine production to date: a winery approximately 6,100 years old that has revolutionised scientific understanding of the origins of viticulture.
The discovery: the world's oldest winery
Excavations at Areni-1 Cave, begun in 2007, have revealed extraordinary remains of a Chalcolithic (Copper Age) wine-making facility. The finds include a grape press, fermentation and storage jars, grape seeds and wine residues which, according to radiocarbon analysis, date back approximately 6,100 years (around 4,100 BC). This is the oldest evidence of wine production ever found, surpassing earlier records from Iran and Georgia.
More finds: human remains and Bronze Age tools
The cave was not only used for wine-making: excavations have also revealed human remains over 6,000 years old, stone and bone tools from the Bronze and Iron Ages, pottery and other artefacts confirming continuous human occupation of the site over thousands of years. The cave was also used for funerary rituals, adding a spiritual and cultural dimension to its significance.
The cave today: tourism and active archaeology
Areni-1 Cave is open to visitors as an active tourist and archaeological destination. Excavation work continues in part of the cave, while the already-excavated areas have been prepared for public visits. Local guides explain the finds and their importance in the context of Armenian history and world viticulture.
How to combine the visit
The cave is visited alongside the village of Areni, where you can taste Armenian wine made from the Areni Noir variety, and the monastery of Noravank, just a few kilometres away. It makes for a perfect day trip from Yerevan.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Areni Cave in Armenia famous?
The Areni-1 Cave is famous for housing the world's oldest winery, 6,100 years old. The remains of presses, jars and grape seeds found during excavations place Armenia at the very origin of world viticulture, ahead of Iran and Georgia.
Can you visit Areni-1 Cave?
Yes, the cave is open to the public and local guides explain the archaeological finds. It can be visited as part of a trip to the village of Areni, which also includes wine tastings and a visit to Noravank monastery.
What exactly was found in Areni-1 Cave?
The finds included: a grape press with a capacity of several hundred litres, fermentation and storage jars, grape seeds of a cultivated variety (not wild), wine residues 6,100 years old, human remains, and stone and bone tools. It is the oldest known set of evidence for wine production.