Areni 1 (Bird's) Cave

Areni-1 Cave is also known as Bird's Cave, which is a significant archaeological site located in the Areni village of Armenia. This cave holds immense historical importance as it has provided remarkable insights into ancient human civilization, dating back to the Chalcolithic period, around 4,000-5,000 BCE.

Discovered in 2007, Areni-1 Cave has provided an array of artifacts and findings that shed light on the early lifestyle, culture, and technological advancements of prehistoric communities. Among its notable discoveries are ancient leather footwear, which is considered the oldest known leather shoe in the world, dating back around 5,500 years.

The cave's archaeological significance extends beyond the footwear; it has also revealed ancient winemaking facilities, including a wine press and fermentation vessels. These findings suggest that winemaking practices in this region trace back millennia, further reinforcing Armenia's claim as one of the oldest winemaking regions globally.

Excavations at Areni-1 Cave continue to discover more artifacts, tools, and evidence of early human activities, providing invaluable information about the lifestyle, agricultural practices, and technological innovations of ancient civilizations. The discoveries from this site contribute significantly to our understanding of early human history and cultural evolution in the region and beyond.