THE CILICIA SHIP
THE СILIСIA SHIP
Port Ayas is home to the legendary ship Сiliсia, an exact reconstruction of a 13th-century Armenian merchant vessel. It took 11 years to build, followed by two years of trials on Lake Sevan before the ship set off on a major sea expedition.
Between 2002 and 2006, Сiliсia visited 25 countries and 65 ports, showing that a medieval Armenian ship could cross the seas using the technology available at the time.
Today, the ship has returned home to the shores of Lake Sevan. It has become an important part of Port Ayas and one of its main symbols. The ship is carefully maintained here, while its creator and captain, Karen Balayan, continues to share the story of the expedition, the ship’s construction and Armenia’s maritime heritage with guests.
For many visitors, discovering Сiliсia becomes one of the most memorable experiences of their stay at Port Ayas.
Between 2002 and 2006, Сiliсia visited 25 countries and 65 ports, showing that a medieval Armenian ship could cross the seas using the technology available at the time.
Today, the ship has returned home to the shores of Lake Sevan. It has become an important part of Port Ayas and one of its main symbols. The ship is carefully maintained here, while its creator and captain, Karen Balayan, continues to share the story of the expedition, the ship’s construction and Armenia’s maritime heritage with guests.
For many visitors, discovering Сiliсia becomes one of the most memorable experiences of their stay at Port Ayas.
Walk the Deck of History
Guided Tour
Handle replica navigation instruments. Hear tales of storms survived and spices traded.
Navigation Workshops
Handle replica navigation instruments. Hear tales of storms survived and spices traded.
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