Yeghegnadzor, Armenia—Sixteen participants hiked through the mountainous terrain of Armenia’s Vayots Dzor province as a Peace Road event.
The first day, August 19, 2023, was devoted to preparations and to setting up a tent camp. Hovhannes Barseghyan, the leader of UPF in Armenia, gave a talk on the significance of the Peace Road initiative in the context of global peace.
On the following day they climbed to an altitude of 1,900 meters to the ancient fortress of Smbataberd. Dating back to the fifth century, this fortress bore witness to centuries of history.
Amid these time-worn walls, the participants made a resolute declaration: The Peace Road would serve to foster peace among nations.
Covering a distance of 5.5 kilometers with an elevation gain of 400 meters, the route symbolized humanity's collective endeavor to ascend toward mutual understanding.
On their return journey, the participants paused at the historic crossroads of the 13th-century Noravank Monastery. Amid the tranquil ambience of this revered site, an interfaith prayer resonated, encapsulating their shared aspiration for peace that transcended the confines of individual beliefs.