The main sights of yerevan. Sights of Yerevan

The countries of Transcaucasia are a great place for family and single rest, health improvement, acquaintance with ancient history and culture. Having looked, the traveler can go to the neighboring Georgia, no less interesting and beautiful country - Armenia, and more specifically - to its capital Yerevan. It is full of magnificent landscapes, monuments, ancient churches and monasteries - the list below will help you not to get lost in the city.

The first thing you need to do is the legendary Mount Ararat, smoothly rising to the sky. It appeared many thousands of years ago as a result of active displacement of the earth's strata; its highest points, emerging from one base (Sis and Masis), are visible from a distance of tens of kilometers.

As a result of complex geopolitical transformations, Ararat is now territorially part of Turkey. A part of the mountain is adjacent to Armenia, however, to make the ascent, the traveler will have to cross one more border. Usually there are no problems with this, but there is also little point in entering Turkey: Ararat, like all mountains, is much more beautiful from afar, and the best views open precisely from the direction of Yerevan.

According to a well-known legend, it was on this mountain that Noah's ark stopped at the end of the Flood; in the middle of the last century, archaeological research was carried out on the territory of Ararat and even the remains of ancient boards were found, but the legend has not received scientific confirmation - which, however, does not prevent it from inspiring hundreds of thousands of pilgrims.

The historical name of Ararat is Agra-Dag; its highest points rise to 5164 meters (Masis) and 3897 meters (Sis). The average height of Big Ararat is 4365 meters; from one peak to another - almost 12 meters. The perimeter of the sole is about 130 kilometers; the abundant river Araks flows directly under the mountain.

From time to time, the Holy Mountain of Armenia shows volcanic activity; the last such episode dates back to 1842. Research shows that eruptions occurred as early as the third century BC; in the course of one of them, which took place after the adoption of Christianity, the Armenian village at the foot of the mountain and the ancient monastery of St. James were destroyed. Today there is no threat, and a tourist can quite calmly observe Ararat from a distance - or still decide to climb under the supervision of an instructor.

Ararat - how to look and how much it costs:

• visit cost: free.

At the foot of the beautiful Ararat there is the ancient monastery of Khor Virap, or "Deep Uzilische", built of hewn stone slabs. Getting to it from Yerevan is not difficult - you can use the same regular bus or order a taxi, paying the driver for waiting.

However, it will be much more useful for a traveler to purchase a complex excursion, which involves visiting not only the monastery, but also the nearby winery and another Armenian shrine - Noravank monastery. Average cost of a trip accompanied by a guide is 12,000 AMD; you should bring about the same amount with you to buy souvenirs.

The modern monastery was founded at the end of the 17th century; simultaneously with the construction of cells, refectory and work premises, a church was erected in the name of the Most Holy Theotokos. The name Khor Virap is directly related to the history of the Armenian saint Gregory the Illuminator. Living under Tsar Trdat the Third (even during pagan times), he discovered his religion and was imprisoned for almost twenty years.

After this time, Gregory was again brought before the king, but already seriously ill. The saint persuaded Trdat the Third not only to be baptized, but also to recognize Christianity as the state religion of Armenia; A lot of wall paintings are dedicated to an event of paramount importance both for the country and for the entire Transcaucasia.

The dungeon of Gregory the Illuminator exists to this day; it is a deep (about six meters) and rather wide pit, into which a spiral staircase leads. The approximate time of the creation of the prison is the second century AD; a chapel in the name of the saint was built in the fifth century. The place is open for inspection: a visitor to the monastery just needs to walk a few meters from the Church of the Most Holy Theotokos in the southwest direction or check the way with the monks.

The central temple of Khor Virap itself is also remarkable. The church, called in Armenian Surb Astvatsatsin, was built at the end of the 17th century and stands in the same place where the first chapel of St. Gregory was located. There is reason to believe that both the non-preserved and the new buildings were erected on the model of the Armenian pagan temples; one of the proofs of this is the orientation of the altar not to the east, but to the south.

Divine services are held every day in the Church of the Most Holy Theotokos, in which any visitor to the monastery can participate. The main thing is not to forget about elementary decency: not to wear too revealing clothes for the excursion and not to interfere with your behavior to others present.

Khor Virap - how to see and how much it costs:

• address: Ararat region, Lusarat village;
• travel: by regular bus from Yerevan, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 09:00 to 18:00;
• visit cost: free.

The ancient fortress, erected by order of the Urartian king Argishti I in the sixth century BC, is located on the outskirts of Yerevan; It is easier to get to it than to Ararat and the adjacent monastery - just drive a few stops by public transport.

The total area of \u200b\u200bthe complex is about 85 hectares; archaeological research is regularly conducted on the territory of the fortress. During the first of these, in the 50s of the last century, ancient samples of cuneiform were discovered; Based on this find, scientists suggest that in ancient times Yerevan was called the same as the fortress itself - Erebuni.

The main purpose of the building is to control the trade routes passing along Lake Sevan. Resistance to the onslaught of the enemy was guaranteed by walls up to two to three meters thick and an average of 12 meters high. Despite the fact that earthquakes often happened in Armenia, the masonry of almost three thousand years ago has survived to this day. The fortress is surrounded by a "sentinel path" that allows guards to bypass the walls along the perimeter from the outside. It is also interesting that the inhabitants of Urartu were among the first in the world to use mortar for fixing bricks - for that time it was a truly revolutionary practice.

A palace was built in the northern part of the complex, from the windows of which a view of Ararat opens; along the passage from the first building reserved for the king, one could get into the second - "internal", created in case of deep defense. The ruler's chambers and offices are decorated with tuff, which is abundant in this area; traces of plaster and even bright blue paint, especially beloved by the ancestors of the Armenians, remained on the walls of the buildings. The traveler will be able to see several samples of painting in Urartu; some of the rooms have preserved millennia-old floors of broken clay, covered with straw.

The main sanctuaries of Erebuni are the temple of the supreme god Khaldi, which differs from others in size, a square tower in front of the entrance and a luxurious colonnade. The second most important is the Ivarsha temple, devoid of windows and illuminated by a hole in the ceiling. The opinions of historians differ: some believe that the temple belonged to a separate nationality, which later became part of the Armenian nation, while others - that it was dedicated to the local deity and open to everyone. Be that as it may, today every traveler can visit both temples, as well as Erebuni as a whole - not forgetting to look into the museum located under the walls of the fortress on the way. It is highly recommended to bring water or other soft drinks with you: there are no shops or cafes on the territory of the complex.

Erebuni - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Khachik Dashtents street;
• visiting time: daily from 10:30 to 16:30, except Monday;
• cost of the visit: for preschool children - free; for schoolchildren - 300 AMD; for adults - 1000 AMD.

The monument dedicated to Armenia and everyone who fell for the freedom of the country is located in the central district of Yerevan - in the Victory Park (Haghtanak). Until the 60s of the last century, a monument to Stalin was erected on the pedestal; after the change of the country's leadership, the old statue was removed, and its place was taken by the work of the sculptor Harutyunyan.

The height of "Mother Armenia" is almost 23 meters, and the entire composition as a whole is 50 meters. The pedestal is made of stone blocks; the monument is made of chased copper. One of the prototypes of the monument was the Armenian partisan Sose Mayrik, who participated in the national liberation movement and is especially revered by the inhabitants of Yerevan.

The pedestal was designed by the sculptor Israelian in the form of a traditional Armenian three-nave church; this is a full-fledged building, which has been in active use since its foundation. Now the Museum of the Second World War and the Karabakh War, which belongs to the Ministry of Defense of Armenia, is open here. Admission is free for all comers; inside - several hundred exhibits (from samples of weapons and ammunition used by both sides, to original documents, letters from the front and photographs).

The monument, as is customary in the countries of the former USSR, is visited by newlyweds; tourists are often photographed next to it. Coming down the hill, the traveler will find several excellent cafes and restaurants, as well as souvenir shops. In the latter, in particular, you can buy figures of "Mother Armenia", calendars, magnets with her image and similar products.

It is good to walk near the monument late in the evening and at night: the area around the monument is well illuminated, so a tourist who is not even fully accustomed to Yerevan can easily find his way to a hotel or hostel - and if he wishes, he can spend time in one of the 24-hour bars.

"Mother Armenia" - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Azatutyan avenue;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: around the clock;
• visit cost: free.

Another, probably the most recognizable monument in Yerevan, standing on the Railway Station Square, is dedicated to the legendary David of Sasun, whose deeds are described in the epic "Sasna Tsrer". The monument was erected in 1960; sculptor Kochar and architect Mazmanyan became its authors. The idea to immortalize the hero of folk tales appeared much earlier - back in the 30s of the last century, but for a number of reasons was not implemented until the beginning of World War II, and later, due to lack of funds, was repeatedly postponed "for later".

The pedestal under the monument to David is hewn out of basalt; for the manufacture of the statue itself, forged copper was used, since there was no shortage of this material at that time. The height of the monument is exactly twelve meters; a horse rider is located in the middle of a pool with a diameter of 25 meters.

You should not leave the monument right after the inspection: the traveler can stay on the square even until the evening, admiring the jets of the fountain rushing upwards, and in the evenings - and the beautiful multi-colored illumination that gives the water all kinds of shades. The city authorities plan to make the fountain a musical one, but so far the idea has not been implemented.

Near the monument to David of Sasun, there is a beautiful green park open to the public. It is crowded in summer and winter; people come to relax after a hard day, ride bicycles or rollerblades, and in winter - play snowballs or warm up with a cup of coffee in one of the indoor restaurants.

Monument to David Sasunsky - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Railway station square;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: around the clock;
• visit cost: free.

Not so far from “Mother Armenia” is the “Erebuni - Yerevan 2750” complex, unique both in scale and in the totality of engineering solutions, dedicated to the 2750th anniversary of the founding of the Urartian fortress that gave the name to the city.

The complex was opened in 1968 - just in time for the anniversary of Erebuni; it was extremely difficult to obtain permission to start construction, both due to the cost, and as a result of the disagreements that occurred at that time between the Central Committee and the ASSR. Nevertheless, the work started on time; two reasons played a decisive role. The first one is aesthetic: the street with the fountain looks much more beautiful, and this applies not only to Yerevan; the second is geodetic: the groundwater, which was overflowing with the local soil, did not allow the inhabitants of the lower floors to live in peace. The architect Sadoyan was entrusted with taking them (and doing it beautifully), and he successfully coped with the task.

In accordance with the general concept, the complex included exactly 2,750 fountains, of which clear water gushed for most of the year; not so long ago, reconstruction work began in Yerevan, as a result of which the number of jets should increase to 2800 - by the 2800th anniversary of Erebuni.

The area where the fountains are gushing is often called the boulevard by the residents of Yerevan; this name is so firmly entrenched among the locals that a traveler just needs to ask for directions "to the boulevard" and he will be shown the right direction. Here they spend their free time, walk, have fun, participate in folk holidays and celebrations; here, at a distance of several meters, there are the Central Bank, the Historical Museum, the State Theater and the Art Gallery.

It is especially recommended to look at the fountains in the evening or at night, when the streams shine and shimmer in the light of the searchlights installed along the entire perimeter of "Erebuni-Yerevan 2750". A visit to the complex, as well as the adjacent square, is completely free; several cafes and eateries are open nearby.

Fountain complex "Erebuni - Yerevan 2750" - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Shahumyan square;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: around the clock;
• visit cost: free.

On the Gokht River, among the almost sheer cliffs, there is the Geghardavank monastery, or Geghard for short, which translates as "The Monastery of the Spear". Like other significant shrines of the country, it belongs to the Armenian Gregorian Apostolic Church; the ancient building is listed as a UNESCO cultural heritage site and is protected by the state.

In addition to monastic cells and ancient temples, the complex includes rock structures that probably appeared before the baptism of the country, and ancestral princely and royal tombs. One of the main decorations of the monastery is a scattering of khachkars (stone steles with crosses carved into them). Geghard - a functioning monastery; Each attraction is carefully monitored here, especially ancient monuments are looked after and, if necessary, restored.

The history of the monastery begins in the 4th century; according to legend, it was then that Saint Gregory the Illuminator founded several of the first cells and consecrated a key spring spilling nearby. Unfortunately, after five hundred years, the Armenian soldiers did not have enough strength to resist the Muslim invaders, who completely destroyed and plundered the old complex. In addition to the first raid on the remains of Geghard, the Turks made a campaign, leaving no stone unturned from the monastery.

The situation changed in the 13th century, when this part of the Armenian land came under the rule of Tamara, the queen of Georgia. It was then that the first restoration work began on the territory of the monastery - in particular, the beautiful Katoghike chapel was built. At the same time, the complex was equipped with a fairly good water supply system, fragments of which have survived to this day.

At the end of the same century, new temples and cells were carved into the rocks surrounding the chapel; a few years later, Geghard in its present form was acquired by the princely family of Khakhbakians. The monastery complex remained in desolation until the 18th century, until permanent residents appeared on its territory.

The main church of Geghard continues to be Katoghike; next to it there are two more objects: Avazan and the Most Holy Mother of God. Both of them are carved into the rock and have been perfectly preserved to this day. The facade and walls of the temples from the inside are richly decorated with paintings, frescoes and bas-reliefs; in addition, a visitor who happens to be here can admire traditional Armenian and Georgian icons and calligraphy, which is used for inscriptions under the images of saints.

Prior to the Muslim invasion, a most valuable relic was kept in Geghard - the spear of the centurion Longinus; it was transported closer to the capital, and the most magnificent old manuscripts created in the local library were almost completely destroyed. A tourist can only look at the places where valuables were previously kept, walk to the holy spring and visit relatively new temples - but this is a lot.

Geghard - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: 40 km southeast of Yerevan;
• travel: by regular bus from Yerevan, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 10:00 to 19:00;
• visit cost: free.

The second largest Transcaucasian Cathedral, also under the jurisdiction of the Armenian Apostolic Church, is located in Yerevan; to visit it, the traveler does not have to shake the bus or buy a tour. It is enough to use the municipal transport or taxi - after spending from ten minutes to half an hour, the tourist will get to the main temple of Armenia.

Unlike the previously listed Cathedral of St. Gregory, the new one; it was founded in 1997 on the initiative of the then Catholicos Karekin the First, and was completed and consecrated just five years later - in 2001. The stone was laid to coincide with the 1700th anniversary of the baptism of Armenia; here are kept several of the most important Christian relics brought from ancient monasteries and Naples.

The cathedral, being a conceptually integral structure, consists of three churches: St. Trdat, St. Ashkhen and St. Gregory the Illuminator. All of them lived at the same time and took a direct part in the Christianization of the pagan country, which once belonged to the state of Urartu.

The total area of \u200b\u200bthe cathedral is about 3830 square meters; the height of the central dome is 55 meters. The famous Armenian master Kyurchkyan was chosen as the architect. Inside the church, there are murals made in the traditional Armenian technique and even with the use of an old recipe for paints, and icons that fully correspond to the canons of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

The temple is active and open for free visits throughout the year; the traveler only needs to remember the rules of conduct in the church and try not to disturb the parishioners both during the service and at the end of it.

Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Yervand Kochar street;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 08:30 to 18:30;
• visit cost: free.

The complex name of this magnificent, although in terms of the scale of the previous and miniature temple, is directly related to the famous Gospel of Zoravor - one of the most important relics of the Armenian Apostolic Church, which was kept here for a long time.

Initially, the church, as the main part of the name suggests, was dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos. Built at the end of the 17th century, it is now the oldest surviving temple in Yerevan. Surb Zoravor is located in the historical quarter Shahar; earlier not far from it was the grave of the Apostle Ananias and a chapel built over it. In addition, the complex, designed by Archimandrite Syunetsi, included several rooms for monks and its own residence.

The premises were fenced off with a low, rather thick fortress wall; now from it, as well as from other structures (with the exception of the temple), nothing remained. The reason for this is not the Arabs with the Turks, but one of the earthquakes so characteristic of this area, which happened in 1655. Of course, the church itself suffered from it; it was partially restored at the very end of the 17th century, and after that it was repeatedly restored.

The Church of the Most Holy Theotokos was built according to the canons of the Armenian Apostolic Church; these are all the same three naves - the high central one and the side ones adjoining it. Above the main entrance, the traveler can see the ancient, miraculously preserved image of the Mother of God with the Child.

At the end of the 19th century, the tomb of the Apostle Ananias was also restored - a new building is located to the northeast of the church on the supposed site of the old chapel. In addition, already in Soviet times, the choir was repaired in the church, and next to them was the priest's house and the chapel of St. Ananias. The church and the chapel are completely free of charge; they are open all year round - and inside the tourist a lot of interesting things await.

Church of Surb Zoravor Astvatsatsin - how to see and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Lazar Parpetsi street;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 10:30 to 16:30;
• visit cost: free.

The Church of St. Sarkis, or Surb Sarkis, is located in the Kentron district of Yerevan; it, like the Cathedral of St. Gregory, belongs to relatively late churches: the completion of construction work took place in 1841, and the consecration - in 1842.

A church was built on the site of a previously existing one, destroyed by the earthquake of 1679. Prior to this terrible disaster, the complex included the temples of St. Gevorg and St. Hakob, as well as several buildings belonging to the local vicar and a parish school. There was also a splendid garden with characteristic hanging terraces, partially rebuilt after the earthquake, but soon abandoned.

The restoration of the Church of St. Sarkis continued already under the Soviet Union under the leadership of the famous architect Israelian. It was then that the façade was again completely faced with orange tuff and decorated with geometric elements traditional for Armenia. Inside the temple, the ancient wooden choir was repaired, and the dome was replaced with another one, repeating the shape of the original, but higher. The construction of the new Surb Sarkis bell tower was completed only in 2000; a decade later, the roof of the church was equipped with powerful solar panels.

Church of St. Sarkis - how to see and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Israelian street;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 09:00 to 17:00;
• visit cost: free.

Once the richest repository of manuscripts in Armenia, and now the Yerevan Research Center, combined with a museum, is located not far from the Surb Sarkis Church. The very name "Matenadaran" literally means "The place where the scrolls are kept"; here, according to historians, already in the 5th century there were at least 1,500 samples of Armenian calligraphy. Now the number of units exceeds twenty thousand, and this is far from the limit: research work continues, new exhibits are constantly brought to Matenadaran.

There are manuscripts here not only in Old and New Armenian, but also in Georgian, Greek, Syriac, Persian, Russian, Arabic and other languages. The traveler is not allowed access to most of the unique exhibits, however, viewing the books and scrolls exhibited in the museum will delight a connoisseur of antiquity.

Matenadaran - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Mashtots street, 53;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 08:00 to 19:00;
• cost of the visit: 300 AMD.

In the Kotayk region (at a distance of about thirty kilometers from Yerevan) there is an ancient pagan temple built by order of Trdat the First in honor of the sun god. Basalt blocks became the main material: they were carefully polished and laid one on top of the other, without using fired bricks and mortar. The blocks were attached to each other using metal pins and brackets, pre-drilling holes in the stone.

The temple was repeatedly subjected to attempts at destruction and eventually fell into complete decay. You can look at it, going up the high steps, any day of the week for a relatively small fee.

Garni temple - how to see and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan region, Garni;
• travel: by regular bus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 10:00 to 17:00;
• cost of the visit: 1000 AMD, and on the last Saturday of the month - free of charge.

The majestic architectural complex, located in the center of Yerevan, consists of five terraces overhanging each other. The construction, which began in the distant 1980s, is still not finished: a traveler who came out to the main alley of the Cascade can observe the work of high-rise cranes and other equipment.

Nevertheless, the views of the Grand Cascade are impressive - and will certainly force the tourist to climb a series of steps again to look at the panorama of the city from an eighty-meter height.

Grand Cascade - how to look and how much it costs:

• address: Yerevan, Tamanyan street;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: around the clock;
• visit cost: free.

The picture gallery, one of the largest in the CIS, presents the works of Armenian, Georgian, Russian and European masters of the past and modern times. The pride of the collection is the work of Agadzhanyan, Surenyants, Saryan, Kojoyan, Tintoretto, Bassano, Giordano, Panini, Van Dyck, Purbus, Goltzius, Stommer, Ostade, Velde, Fragonard, Russo, Watteau, Rodin, Bryullov, Basin and many others.

National Art Gallery - how to see and how much it costs:

• address: Aram street, 1;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 11:00 to 17:00, except Monday;
• cost of the visit: for children under seven years old - free; for schoolchildren - 300 AMD; for adults - 800 AMD.

You can finish your acquaintance with the wonderful Yerevan at the Spendiarov Opera and Ballet Theater. The building, built in 1940, regularly hosts singers and musicians from Armenia, as well as world stars. The main stage of the theater is designed for over a thousand spectators; to get to a particularly interesting performance, you need to book a ticket in advance.

Yerevan Opera and Ballet Theater - how to see and how much it costs:

• address: Tumanyan street, 54;
• travel: by bus, trolleybus, taxi or car;
• visiting time: daily from 12:00 to 22:00;
• visit cost: free.

Summing up

There are many interesting places worth visiting in Yerevan - and they are in no way inferior. First of all, you should pay attention to the natural beauty of Armenia, the main of which is Mount Ararat, and ancient temples and monasteries - from Khor Virap to the Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator. In addition, a traveler should definitely look at the ancient pagan temple of Garni - once a month it can be done for free.

After Yerevan you can go to Sevan, Dilijan or Jermuk; and if there is no desire to continue traveling in Armenia, the tourist should head to neighboring Azerbaijan and to one of the entertainment centers or the Heydar Aliyev Park. There are many sights in Transcaucasia - you will have to spend more than one month to see them all. The main thing is not to forget to prepare the relevant documents and to clarify in advance whether the visa legislation has changed in the country chosen for the holiday.

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1. Yerevan Cascade

A giant staircase made of white travertine (572 steps, more than 300 meters) on the slope of the Kanaker Hill, leading to the majestic Obelisk "Revived Armenia". The cascade was built in Soviet times according to the project of the "father of the city" architect Alexander Tamanyan, in the 2000s it underwent a large-scale reconstruction carried out with the money of the American businessman of Armenian descent Gerard Cafesjian, whose parents emigrated to the United States from Western Armenia (now it is the territory of Turkey), fleeing from genocide.

Coordinates 40.1911, 44.51562.

2. Matenadaran

Matenadaran is a repository of ancient manuscripts and the pride of all Armenians. The cathedral-like building houses more than 23,000 manuscripts, documents and maps. The collection was based on the collection of the Echmiadzin Monastery, nationalized in 1920. In front of the building, there is a statue of St. Mesrop Mashtots showing his student his alphabet. In the outer gallery of Matenadaran, there are carved stone tombs and khachkars brought here from all over Armenia.

How to get there: coordinates 40.19193, 44.52085, address st. Mashtots 53. You can get there from Place de France by trolleybuses 1 and 9. Working hours: Tue-Sat 10: 00-16: 30.

Tours in Armenia from local residents

If you don't have a car, then it is best to take an individual excursion from local residents to explore the sights of Armenia. Your guides will be writers, artists, photographers, journalists - in love with their country and who know almost everything about it.

In the morning you will be picked up from your hotel in Yerevan, they will take you to the most interesting places all day, they will tell you many interesting stories and legends, and in the evening they will return you back - tired but very satisfied.

At the moment, in Yerevan, there are many different options, both overview and thematic (for example, a tour of "wine" Armenia or the most interesting monasteries). To see all available options, click
See all excursions.

At the stage of booking, you will need to pay online only 20% of the cost of the tour - give the rest of the amount to the guide before it starts.

3. Tsitsernakaberd

This is one of the most important sights of Yerevan and all of Armenia. In 1964, the leadership of the Armenian SSR turned to Moscow with a request to erect a monument to all the Armenians who fell in the First World War. The then union leadership was not particularly interested in that period of national history and no one was in a hurry to give permission - then on April 24, 1965, for the first time in the Soviet Union, a mass demonstration took place in Yerevan, in which about 100 thousand people participated. In the year of the 50th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, people demanded to build a memorial and perpetuate the memory of the victims.

As a result, the union leadership gave the go-ahead and in the western part of Yerevan a gigantic complex of Tsitsernakaberd ("Swallow Fortress") appeared, consisting of a stele split in two and an eternal flame framed by a cone of 12 marble slabs. Stella symbolizes Western and Eastern Armenia (Western currently belongs to Turkey), and the slabs represent 12 lost regions of the country.

How to get there: coordinates 40.18582, 44.4903, minibuses to the Khamalir stop, on foot through the "Hrazdan" stadium, or from the "Barekamutyun" metro station along the Kievyan bridge. Working hours: Tue-Sun 11: 00-16: 00.

4. Erebuni Fortress Museum

Erebuni is another source of pride for all Armenians. The fortress dates back to 782 BC. - that is, she is three decades older. And since the age of Yerevan is considered from the moment of construction of Erebuni, it turns out that the capital of Armenia is older than one of the most ancient and great cities in the world. There is a museum on the territory of the fortress, where you can get acquainted with the life of the ancient kingdom of Urartu - the predecessor of Armenia.

How to get there: address Erebuni street, 38; coordinates 40.14138, 44.5353. From the metro station "Zoravar Arndranik" you can take trolleybus 2. Working hours: Tue-Sun 10: 00-15: 00.

5. Lake Sevan

Along with Mount Ararat, Sevan is one of the most famous natural symbols of the country. Therefore, to visit Armenia and not go to the famous lake for at least half a day means simply not seeing Armenia. Sevan is located only 70 km from Yerevan, and almost all of its attractions are very conveniently located along the western (closest to the capital) coast.

If you have the time and desire, you can go around the lake, at the same time looking at the landscapes of the Gegharkunik region, in the center of which Sevan is located.

Coordinates: 40.56373, 45.0111 (Sevanavank monastery); 63 km north-east of Yerevan.From the Northern Bus Station of Yerevan, you can take a passing minibus to Dilijan or Ijevan. Stop at the peninsula, from it to the monastery 1 km on foot. Also minibuses to Sevan go from the Yeritasardakan metro station.

6. Tsaghkadzor

Tsaghkadzor ("Gorge of flowers") is the only ski resort in Armenia, in the past the all-union center for training Olympians. It is a small picturesque village located in a mountain valley. The lifts of Tsaghkadzor also work in summer - at this time many Yerevan residents come here, fleeing from their city, melted by the heat.

Coordinates 40.53485, 44.69752; 50 km north-east of Yerevan, 5 km from the city of Hrazdan.

7. Garni pagan temple

The unique temple of the pagan god Mithra is the only one in the Caucasus and generally on the territory of the former USSR. Located in a very picturesque place - on a rocky ledge above the gorge of the Azat River, outwardly looks like a greatly reduced copy of the Athenian Parthenon.

Until the middle of the last century, the temple lay in ruins, until it was restored by Soviet restorers under the leadership of Alexander Saginyan (the original basalt blocks were not found in the required quantity, and new ones were used - and this is very clearly visible).

Coordinates 40.11256, 44.72962; 28 km east of Yerevan. From Yerevan to Garni you can take a passing minibus 255 or 266 to the village of Goght - departure from the Gai Pogots bus station. The cost is AMD 300 (RUB / $), the journey takes about an hour. Working hours: May-November Tue-Sat 9: 00-22: 00, Sun until 15:30, December-April Tue-Sat 9: 00-17: 30, Sun until 15:30.

8. "Monastery of the Spear" Geghard

Geghard Is one of the most popular attractions in Armenia and a place of religious pilgrimage. The word "Geghard" means "spear" - for a long time the tip of the sacred spear was kept in the monastery, with which the Roman centurion Longinus pierced Jesus crucified on the cross, saving him from torment. The complex is partially located in caves - the churches of the monastery form a single space with them.

Coordinates: 40.14029, 44.81786; 40 km southeast of Yerevan. First, by minibus to Garni, then 8 km on foot or by taxi (3000 AMD / 400 rubles / 6.2 $). Working hours: Mon-Sun 08: 00-19: 00.

9. Khor Virap monastery

The name of the monastery means "Deep pit" - it was here in the dungeon that Christian Grigor languished, after his liberation became the baptist of Armenia. Due to its location (almost on the border with Turkey) Khor Virap is perhaps the best observation deck of Mount Ararat, sacred for the Armenians. Currently, the mountain is located on Turkish territory, and this fact is extremely painful for all Armenians - they firmly believe that one day Ararat will again be Armenian.

Coordinates: 39.87819, 44.57575; located 48 km southeast of Yerevan. From Yerevan you can take a minibus to the city of Artashat - ask the driver to stop at the turn to Khor Virap. From this place to the monastery itself you need to walk about 4 km. Working hours: daily 9: 00-18: 00.

10. Areni

Areni is the center of Armenian winemaking. It produces wine from local Areni grapes with the addition of Saperavi. The vineyards are located in the Vayots Dzor valley and their area is very small - so the local wine is produced in relatively small quantities.

Famous Armenian fruit wines and sun-dried fruits are also produced in Areni. Virtually all businesses - both large wineries and small family wineries - offer tastings for tourists.

The sights of the village are located on its northern outskirts - the Church of the Virgin with the reliefs of the sculptor Momik (1321), the ruins of the palace of Prince Orbelian of the 13th century and the three-arch bridge from 1280.

How to get there: coordinates 39.72059, 45.1837; 12 km southeast of Yeghegnadzor. You can get there by passing minibus to Goris.

11. Noravank monastery

Noravank, founded in the 13th century at the end of a narrow long gorge, is one of the most spectacular sights in Armenia. Noravank is especially beautiful at sunset, when the soft light emphasizes the red rocks surrounding the monastery. A stunningly picturesque road leads from the Yerevan-Goris highway to the monastery, laid among the rocks red from the excess of iron:

Apart from its natural component, Noravank is known for its collection of Armenian khachkars (stone crosses) - one of the best in Armenia.

How to get there: coordinates 39.68461, 45.23305; 120 km southeast of Yerevan, 8 km southeast of Areni. From the Yerevan Kilikia bus station by minibus to Goris (3000 AMD / 400 rubles / 6 $), get off near the turn to Noravank. Further 8 km by hitchhiking or on foot. Mode of operation: daylight hours.

12. Caravanserai of Prince Orbelian at the Selim Pass

The ancient caravanserai is located on the Selim Pass - the highest point of the mountain road connecting the Gegharkunik and Vayots Dzor regions. Once there was a caravan Silk Road, and in 1332, Prince Chesar Orbelian ordered to build a shelter for merchants and travelers on the pass - this is how a basalt structure decorated with bas-reliefs arose on a mountain plateau blown by all the winds. A three-nave hall, a vestibule, a chapel and a living room with small rooms have survived to this day.

Coordinates: 39.94957, 45.23588. You can drive along the Selim Pass only from April to October. In winter, the pass is covered with snow and is closed for transport.

13. Jermuk balneological resort

“Armenian Borjomi” and simply one of the best water resorts in the Caucasus. Here, in addition to many medicinal mineral springs (the word Jermuk itself means "hot spring"), such important factors as the prevalence of clear weather, the absence of fogs in spring and autumn, windless and little snowy winters and exceptionally clean mountain air coincided. All this led to the emergence of the year-round balneological resort Jermuk, the most famous in Armenia.

How to get there: coordinates 39.84038, 45.66625 (Drinking Gallery), 175 km southeast of Yerevan. From Yerevan you can get to Jermuk by bus from the Kilikia bus station.

14. Karahunj

Karahunj are basalt stones, which because of their location are often called "Armenian Stonehenge". From a certain point of view, stone blocks look like frozen warriors, therefore they are often called Zorats Karer - "stone army". Scientists have no consensus regarding the appointment of Karahunj - whether it is an ancient observatory, or a cemetery, or a cattle corral.

How to get there: coordinates 39.55172, 46.02872, 205 km south-east of Yerevan. You can take any minibus from Yerevan to Goris (ask the driver to drop off at Karahunj) - the complex is located 500 meters from the road.

15. Tatev Monastery

One of the most famous and revered monasteries in Armenia and the most interesting attraction in the southern part of the country. Tatev Monastery is located in the Syunik region of Armenia, 20 km from the city of Goris on a mountain plateau near the cliff, near the village of the same name. It was built in the 9th-13th centuries, although it was founded much earlier - in the 4th century. Already in the 10th century, the Tatev monastery had about a thousand inhabitants and was the largest among the 48 monasteries of the Syunik kingdom.

Not far from the monastery is the world's longest reversible cable car "Wings of Tatev".

How to get there: coordinates 39.37963, 46.24814; 250 km from Yerevan and 20 km from Goris. From Yerevan by minibus from the Kilikia bus station to Goris, then by taxi to the monastery. Working hours: Tue-Sun 10: 00-20: 00 (in winter 10: 00-18: 00).

Operating mode of the Wings of Tatev cable car: from 9:00 to 19:45 (19:45 is the departure time of the last carriage from the Tatev station), on Mondays the cable car does not work.

16. The cave city of Khndzoresk

An ancient fortified city, where people constantly lived in the middle of the last century. Khndzoresk is located 10-15 minutes by car from Goris in the direction of the Karabakh border. Probably, it was difficult to choose a place that was more inconvenient for life, but for people who lived in these parts two hundred years ago, “convenience” was not the main criterion for assessing the suitability of housing - the main goal was to survive during the permanent invasions of the Gentiles.

In addition to the recently inhabited caves, Khndzoresk is known for a very picturesque suspension bridge over the gorge.

How to get there: coordinates 39.50456, 46.43505.From Yerevan from the Kilikia bus station by minibus to Goris, then by taxi to the cave city. Mode of operation: daylight hours.

17. Memorial of Defense of Mount Musa Dag (Musaler)

In 1915, in the midst of the deportations and killings of Armenians by the Turks, the inhabitants of several Armenian villages in Cilicia (now the Mediterranean coast of Turkey) were ordered by the Ottoman authorities to prepare for deportation. Residents of the villages, having already heard about the atrocities of the Turks, refused to obey and went to the top of Mount Musa-dag - only about 5 thousand people. Despite the lack of weapons, they held the defense against the regular units of the Turkish army for almost two months, causing them serious damage. The Armenians who survived during this heroic defense were saved by a French cruiser passing by.

Coordinates: 40.17063, 44.37203; near the village of Ptgunk.Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9: 30-17: 30.

18. Zvartnots Temple

Ruin Invader ("Temple of Vigilant Angels") are located in the very place where, according to legend, the meeting of the Armenian king Trdat III with Grigor the Illuminator, later the "baptist" of Armenia and its first Catholicos, took place.

The temple was built in 643-652 by Catholicos Nerses III the Builder - it turned out so successfully that the Byzantine emperor Constant II, who was present at the consecration of the temple, wanted to build something similar.

Coordinates: 40.16064, 44.33616; 10 km west of Yerevan.Working hours: Tue-Sat 10: 00-17: 00, Sun until 15:00.

19. Churches of St. Hripsime and Gayane in Vagharshapat

It is not for nothing that Vagharshapat is called “the city of three churches”. In addition to the main monastery for all Armenians, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, there are two ancient churches dedicated to the Great Martyrs Hripsima and Gayana. Both churches are considered masterpieces of Armenian architecture and are included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.

Church of St. Hripsime was built in 618 in honor of one of 40 Christian virgins who came to Armenia from the Roman Empire in the hope of getting rid of persecution. But Hripsime had the misfortune to please the then king of Armenia, Trdat III. The monarch wished her to be his wife - and when Hripsime replied that “belongs only to Christ,” he took offense and ordered her to be stoned. Then, according to legend, the loving king fell into madness, from which only Christian Grigor, who until then languished in prison, could heal him. After being healed, the tsar himself became a devout Christian, and Grigor became the Enlightener and "baptizer" of Armenia.

Saint Gayane Church was built in honor of the abbess of those 40 Christian virgins, who was also killed by order of the offensive Trdat. The church is valuable because it has come down to our days almost in its original form - the relics of St. Gayane rest in her crypt.

The coordinates of the Church of St. Hripsime: 40.16699, 44.30946; 1.5 km east of Holy Etchmiadzin (on the way to Yerevan).

The coordinates of the Church of St. Gayane: 40.1575, 44.29184, 200 meters south of St. Echmiadzin.

20. Holy Etchmiadzin

Echmiadzin - this is a kind of "Armenian Vatican", the most important temple of all Armenians, Mayar-Tachar ("Mother Church"), is located here. By the way, the town itself, which was called Echmiadzin in Soviet times, was renamed Vagharshapat in 1995.

The name Echmiadzin is translated from Armenian as “Descent of the Only Begotten”. According to legend, Saint Gregory the Illuminator could not choose a place for the temple for a long time. And then in a dream he had a vision: in a ray of light, the Only Begotten Son of God (Miatsin) descended from heaven to earth. In his hand he held a golden hammer - hitting the ground with it, he indicated the place for the future temple.

Coordinates: 40.16183, 44.29111, 15 km from Yerevan.You can get there by minibuses and bus 111 from the Kilikia bus station. Taxi from Yerevan 3000 AMD (400 rubles / 6.3 $). Working hours: Cathedral Mon-Sun 7: 00-20: 00; museum Tue-Sat 10: 30-17: 00, break from 13:00 to 14:00, ticket 1500 AMD / 200 rubles / 3.15 $.

21. Historical and Archaeological Museum "Metsamor"

Here are the archaeological artifacts discovered during the excavation of an ancient settlement Metsamor... In the IV-II millennium BC, there was a relatively highly developed economic and cultural center - there was a large fortress in the city, an observatory in the form of a pyramid-ziggurat, a large temple complex.

Dedicated to the battle that took place on May 21-28, 1918 between the Armenian militia and the regular Turkish army that invaded Eastern Armenia. Considering the genocide that the Turks committed to the Armenians in Western Armenia, this battle was not for freedom and independence, but for the very right to life. The Armenians defeated and saved Eastern Armenia from the fate of the Western. In terms of its place in national historiography and self-awareness, Sardarapat for Armenians is roughly like Stalingrad for Russians.

Coordinates: 40.08989, 43.95594, located near the village of Araks, 45 km from Yerevan, 10 km southwest of Armavir. Working hours: Tue-Sun 9: 00-17: 30. It is better to examine the museum complex with a guided tour.

23. Mount Aragats

Aragats (4090 m) - the highest mountain in modern Armenia (Ararat is not de facto Armenian now). According to legend, Aragats was the sister of Ararat, but once they quarreled and parted forever. Around the mountain is the marz (region) of Aragatsotn, known for its stunning landscapes and interesting sights - the "fortress in the clouds" Amberd (IMHO, these are the most impressive ruins of Armenia), the mountain lake Kari-Lich (the only place above 3000 meters, which can be reached by ordinary car), Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory and others.

The coordinates of the Amberd fortress: 40.38961, 44.22581.

Coordinates of Lake Kari-Lich: 40.47377, 44.18447.

Byurakan coordinates: 40.33084, 44.27342.

24. Haghpat Monastery

Haghpat is considered one of the most "landscape" monasteries in Armenia - it rises on a mountain plateau above the Yerevan-Tbilisi highway. In 1768-1795, the great Armenian poet Sayat Nova lived in the monastery, exiled here by the Georgian king Irakli II from. Learning about the Persian invasion of Tiflis, Sayat Nova left the monastery and went to the Georgian capital to save his family. He succeeded - but the poet himself was killed by the Persians on the Meidani Square in Tbilisi.

Haghpat Monastery is famous for its ancient khachkars - among which is the khachkar of Christ the Savior, the world-recognized masterpiece of Armenian stone-cutters.

How to get there: coordinates 41.09371, 44.71198. Minibus to Alaverdi from the Northern Bus Station of Yerevan and from the metro station "Zoravar Andranik", then a taxi to the monastery. Working hours: 08: 00-19: 00.

25. Sanahin Monastery

The Sanahin monastery complex of the X-XIII centuries rises on a mountain plateau above the gorge of the Debed River. Sanahin is located not far from the Haghpat monastery and is very similar to it in appearance - for this reason, these two monasteries are often combined into a single tourist and pilgrimage route.

This article will focus on the capital of Armenia - Yerevan. I'll tell you about the popular sights of Yerevan with photos and descriptions of where to go in Yerevan. I will tell you what to see in Yerevan in 1, 2, 3 days, as well as what to see in Yerevan and its surroundings in 5 days and a week. The article contains my author's route in Yerevan, as well as a map of Yerevan with sights in Russian.

What to see in Yerevan for1 day

Sights of Yerevan, what to see first? Almost all the sights of Yerevan are compactly located in the city center, that is, in the areas of Freedom Square, Republic Square and the Northern Avenue connecting them.

Although Yerevan is a large city, the most popular attractions are located very compactly in the city center. To see the most interesting sights of Yerevan, you don't even need transport, almost everything can be walked around.

I recommend taking 1-2 days to inspect Yerevan itself, no more. This time will be quite enough to see the main things and get an idea of \u200b\u200bthe capital of Armenia. If there is very little time, then you can go on a city tour with a guide, I can advise (very good reviews, you will see everything very quickly in Yerevan. On the 3rd day, I recommend to go outside the city and see popular sights in the vicinity of Yerevan.

If you wish, you can purchase a special tourist "Yerevan-card". With it you can visit many museums for free, including the Ararat brandy factory. It also includes several excursions, discounts are provided in cafes, restaurants and hotels, airport transfers and other goodies. The card can be bought immediately at the airport or already in the center of Yerevan at points of sale. The Yerevan card is valid for 1 day, 2 days and 3 days. Prices are $ 29, $ 39 and $ 48, respectively.

Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator

This is the largest cathedral in Yerevan, it is located on st. Tigran Mets directly opposite the Zoravar Andranik metro station. We just settled in this area in this hostel, so this cathedral became the first place that we saw in Yerevan. By the way, the hostel is really cool with an excellent location in the city center and just a couple of minutes from the metro, but it's very budgetary, I advise everyone.

The Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator looks very fundamental and large-scale, but the interior of the cathedral is extremely restrained and laconic. There is no such pomp as in our churches, there are no luxurious frescoes and gold. Everything is very modest. Next to the cathedral there is a small nice recreation park, there are several cafes, a large children's area with attractions and a nice pond. In the photo, the cathedral can be seen just behind the pond.

Vernissage

Vernissage is a very popular market among tourists. The shopping malls here are located in the open air and stretch in four rows. At the opening day you can find antiques, various souvenirs, handicrafts, hand-made goods, carpets, dishes, some old records, etc. For lovers of such goods, we just walked along the rows for the sake of interest, but we didn't even take a photo.

Republic Square

Republic Square in Yerevan is one of the main attractions of the city. This is the central square of Yerevan, here along the perimeter are government buildings (government, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs), a post office, an exquisite hotel "Marriott", a history museum.

The square is very beautiful and photogenic, the main feature is that the facade of the buildings here is decorated with pink and white tuff. It looks very sophisticated.

It was here that rallies took place in Yerevan in the summer of 2018, and it was here that all important decisions were made.

The Republic Square looks especially impressive in the evening, when the lights near the buildings are lit.

Singing fountains work on the square, and they look especially good in the evening. In the dark, the trickles of the fountain begin to shine in different shades to the music.

If you wish, take a look at the State Museum of History of Armenia. The museum contains a large collection of ancient household items, clothing, and in total there are more than 400 thousand items of cultural heritage. You can trace the entire history of the country from primitiveness to modern times. The cost of visiting the museum is 1000 AMD, the museum is open from 11.00 to 18.00 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 11.00 to 17.00 on Sundays. Monday is a day off.

Dalan Art Gallery

The Dalan Art Gallery in Yerevan is located at 12 Abovyan Street and is interesting because it contains the best works of more than 20 famous artists of the post-Soviet period. There are 2 floors - on the 1st there is a souvenir shop, here you can buy a bunch of interesting handicrafts, and on the 2nd floor there is an art gallery.

And there is also a cafe, it is located in the courtyard of the gallery and is not visible from the street. To get to the cafe, you need to go through the souvenir shop, at the end there will be a door to the courtyard. The cafe is very cozy, there is no fuss or noise, there are several outdoor tables, the prices are affordable, and the menu is decent, there is plenty to choose from.

Northern Avenue

The most popular pedestrian street in Yerevan, a kind of Armenian Arbat. Northern Avenue starts from Abovyan Street (it is very close to Republic Square) and stretches straight to Freedom Square.

It is always crowded here, especially in the evenings, people rest on benches, numerous groups of young people gather.

Expensive boutiques and clothing stores are concentrated on Northern Avenue, there are cafes and souvenir shops. We did not go to cafes here, but I think the price tag is too high.

Also, it is here that the expensive Notrth Avenue hotel is located, if the budget allows, you can stay here (the hotel has a very high rating).

They also say that the most expensive and elite real estate in Yerevan is located here.

Freedom Square, Opera House and Swan Lake

It is a very popular holiday destination among locals. The pedestrian Northern Avenue will lead us to Tumanyan Street, where this square is located. A cozy recreation area, many open cafes, a beautiful pond with benches around the perimeter and a photogenic bridge to nowhere, good infrastructure and shops are nearby. Often here you can meet mothers with strollers and old people with newspapers.

And next to the lake there is an interesting art object, next to which everyone strives to take a photo.

Cascade

The cascade in Yerevan is perhaps the city's visiting card. Most tourists, arriving in the capital of Armenia, flock here. The cascade is a structure of several tiers of stairs, they are built of white tuff and look very photogenic.

The original purpose of the cascade was to connect the Upper and Lower cities. From the very top of the cascade, a stunning panorama of the city opens with its architecture and picturesque hills on the horizon.

In clear weather, viewing the city from the height of the cascade is a pleasure.

There is a small square in front of the cascade, the decorations of the square are interesting and creative modern sculptures and figures. The territory in front of the cascade pleases with well-groomed flower beds, fountains, benches and cafes. In general, a cool seating area, you can take a leisurely walk and take pictures.

You can climb the cascade on foot to the very top, or you can use a special escalator (it's free).

The entrance to the escalator is located inside the building to the left of the cascade (if you stand facing it). You can stop at any of several elevator spans, and go outside, to any tier of the cascade, it is very convenient.

On the intermediate tiers of the cascade, you can also find entertaining art objects of our time. The escalator is closed in the evenings.

Even if you don’t want to go up the escalator, I still recommend looking inside the building - there are interesting art objects and various installations on each flight, you can visit exhibitions. There is also a free toilet inside the building).

You can come to the cascade both in the morning and in the evening. It is hot here during the day, there is nowhere to hide from the scorching sun (if you are resting in Yerevan in summer). In the evening, a beautiful backlight turns on.

Matenadaran

Matenadaran is a large museum of ancient manuscripts in Yerevan. The building of the Matenadaran seemed to me somehow austere and monumental, the laconic gray colors on the facade from the very threshold seem to tell us about the seriousness and significance of the exhibits stored outside its walls. Matenadaran is one of the largest repositories of ancient manuscripts in the world!

The museum was built in 1920 and now there are more than 2 thousand ancient books and more than 17 thousand ancient manuscripts. The museum is located near the Cascade on a small hill at 53 Mashtots Avenue.

The entrance ticket to Matenadaran costs 1000 AMD, you can take an audio guide if you wish. The museum is open from 10.00 to 16.00 from Tuesday to Saturday. The day off is Monday and Sunday. If you love such places and are ready to spend a couple of hours of time exploring, then be sure to visit the museum.

Victory Park and Mother Armenia Monument

Victory Park is located near the Cascade, and is located high on a hill. This place, as well as the cascade, is an excellent observation deck. The main attraction in the area is the huge 54-meter statue of Mother Armenia. This monument was built in honor of the victory in the Great Patriotic War, inside there is a museum of the Great Patriotic War, and outside you can see samples of weapons. The museum is open from 10.00 to 17.00 from Tuesday to Friday, and from 10.00 to 15.00 on weekends. The entrance is free, but if you want to take pictures you will have to pay 500 AMD.

Next to Victory Park is the classy Radisson Blue hotel, on the top floor of which there is a panoramic restaurant "Ad Astra", the price tag certainly bites, but it is definitely worth it.

Lovers park

The Park of Lovers in Yerevan is a cozy city park located on Baghramyan Avenue. For some reason, the park is undeservedly bypassed and not mentioned as part of a walk around Yerevan, but in vain. The park is very well-groomed, there are a lot of greenery and benches, there are several art objects, a small amphitheater, a pond, a cafe, lights turn on in the evening. And then there's free Wi-Fi. You can walk to the park of lovers from the Cascade, or you can take the metro and get off at the “Marshal Baghramyan” metro station, the entrance to the park is right next to the exit from the metro.

In the park of lovers, exhibitions, festivals, and outdoor film screenings are often held. The park was founded in the 18th century and has changed its name several times over its history (Kozern's garden, Pushkin's garden, Barekamutyun garden). The park received its current name in 1995.

It is interesting that in the period from 2005 to 2008 the park was completely reconstructed at the expense of a patron, and a French architect was involved in the development of the project. He took into account all the details and even followed the Japanese gardening rules, which is probably why the park so successfully blended into the urban environment and turned out to be insanely cozy.

House-museums of famous Armenian figures of art and culture

If you wish, you can visit, for example, the house-museums of the artist Martiros Saryan or the house-museum of the writer and poet Hovhannes Tumanyan.

Charles Aznavour Square and Royal Tulip Hotel

Charles Aznavour Square is one of the most beautiful squares in Yerevan It is located at the intersection of Abovyan and Tumanyan streets and has an interesting semicircular shape. In the center are fountains symbolizing the 12 signs of the zodiac. There is also a large chessboard with chess and interesting sculptures of a bull and a spider. Various youth events and concerts are often held on the square.

The square was built in 1924, but then it was called "Moscow Cinema Square". The square received its current name only in 2001. She was named in honor of the famous singer and composer Charles Aznavour, who is very loved in Armenia, although he was born and raised not in Armenia, but in France in a family of Armenian emigrants. By the way, Charles Aznavour was personally present at the opening of this square.

The oldest hotel in Yerevan is also located here - the Royal Tulip Grand Hotel Erevan, earlier it was called “Hotel Yerevan” and was built in 1924. “Royal Tulip” is not only the oldest, but also one of the most expensive and most elite 5-star hotels in Yerevan .. The hotel rooms are designed in a classic style, the facade of the building in red tones also looks very impressive.

What to see in Yerevan for2 days

Where to go in Yerevan? I continue the story about interesting places in Yerevan and where to go, what to see in Yerevan on the second day.

Blue Mosque

If I am not mistaken, now it is the only functioning mosque in Yerevan, it is the center of the Iranian community in Armenia. The Blue Mosque is located opposite the City store on Mashtots Avenue, 12. The building is nice, quiet, uncrowded, I especially liked the blue mosaic on the walls.

You can look here along the way if you are heading, for example, to the Kond area. The doors of the mosque are open from 10.00 to 18.00.

Brandy factories "Ararat" and "Noy"

Cognac is another visiting card of Armenia. Surely, every tourist, returning home, brings from Armenia a bottle of branded Armenian brandy. There are two popular brandy factories “Noy” and “Ararat” in Yerevan. They are located opposite each other on Admiral Isakov Avenue. You will definitely see them when you go from the airport to the center.

In factories, not only production, they also conduct excursions here, they will tell you the history of the factories, they will show the process of cognac production. It is necessary to register for the excursion in advance, all relevant information can be viewed on the websites of these factories. You can simply sign up for an excursion, or you can go on an excursion with cognac tasting. The price list is different - 4500 AMD for an excursion with tasting of 3 and 5 year old cognacs and 10,000 AMD for an excursion with tasting of 10, 20 and 30 year old cognacs.

Cond area

The Kond district is the oldest part of the city. Getting here, you understand how Yerevan used to be many years ago. The Condes area is a labyrinth of narrow woven streets, low old houses, cobbled tiles. Many consider the Kond area to be a slum area, but this is not at all the case, it's just an old part of the city. It was built back in the 19th century, and then in Soviet times a new city was built, that is, the Yerevan that we see today.

In the Kond area, ordinary people live, ordinary families, it is absolutely safe here, children play on the streets. If you love these motives, then you will definitely like it here. Personally, the area seemed to me very colorful, photogenic, I liked watching the local children, the grandmothers on the benches. I even managed to communicate with friendly locals.

Tsitsernakaberd

This is a memorial complex to the victims of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. Those who are familiar with history will remember that at that time more than a million innocent Armenians were exterminated. The place is sad, but very significant for Armenians, people still come here to lay flowers at the memorial.

The most significant place in Tsitsernakaberd is a large 44-meter stele, and next to it is a wall of mourning and an eternal flame where flowers are laid. There is also the Genocide Museum.

Tsitsernakaberd is located on a hill, a little further from the city center. If you have a great desire and a lot of free time you can walk there, but it takes a long time to walk from the center (more than an hour for sure), it is better to take a taxi. A trip to Yandex taxi from the center from the station. Metro "Zoravar Andranik" to Tsitsernakaberd will take 10 minutes and only 700 AMD will be released. If you find yourself in the area of \u200b\u200bcognac factories (and they are closest to the memorial), then the trip will be even cheaper, about 500 AMD.

The territory of the complex itself is very well-groomed, a lot of greenery. And from the height of the hill the panorama of the city opens, although in my opinion, the views from the cascade are much more spectacular. You need to come to Tsitsernakaberd consciously, if you want to look here just for the sake of the observation deck, then it makes no sense.

Shangri La Casino

I cannot fail to mention this unspoken sight of Yerevan. We passed this gorgeous casino on the way from Sevan to Yerevan, it is located just 2 km from the city on the Sevan highway. Walking from the center is not an option, a taxi is better.

This is an elite institution, the main contingent here is wealthy people and golden youth. Shangri La Casino consists of two halls: the casino itself and the gaming club with slot machines. The entrance to the gaming club is free, but the entrance to the casino is paid. At the first visit, you will have to pay 24,000 AMD for the entrance (about $ 50), and later you have to pay 46,000 AMD for the entrance in exchange for game chips (about $ 100). The casino has several bars and an expensive restaurant with Italian and Armenian cuisine. Inside the casino there is a concert stage where various show programs are held, and musicians also perform here. The interiors of the hall are luxurious and chic.

Erebuni fortress

Erebuni Fortress, or more precisely the ruins of Erebuni Fortress, are located on the outskirts of Yerevan. If there is a desire and time, you can take a ride there, but there is nothing special in this place. A view of Yerevan opens from the hill, but the ruins do not bear any special aesthetics. The Erebuni Museum works on the territory. Entrance fee is 1000 AMD. Open from 11.00 to 17.00 from Tuesday to Saturday. If you are going there, it is better to take a taxi, walk far away (about 4 km from the railway station)

What to see in Yerevan for3 days (4 days)

What to see in the vicinity of Yerevan? On the 3rd and 4th day, I recommend leaving the city and seeing popular sights in the vicinity of Yerevan. Many places can be reached independently by bus or taxi. I will soon tell you more about how to get around Armenia by buses and taxis in my blog. You can also book a guided tour.

I will list interesting places in the immediate vicinity of Yerevan, you can safely visit them during the day, and return back to Yerevan for the night. In general, Yerevan is very convenient to use as a base place from which you can make radial excursions to the sights of Armenia.

Route number 1: Yerevan - Echmiadzin - Zvartnots - Yerevan

(on your own by car / bus, you will need half a day or you can visit as part of)

Route number 2:Yerevan - Garni - Geghard - Yerevan

(by car it will take half a day, by public transport it will take a whole day, but you can see everything within the framework)

Zvartnots temple (15 km west of Yerevan)

This is the brightest monument of medieval Armenian architecture. Beautiful photogenic medieval columns have been preserved here, sometimes local artists sing beautiful songs for groups of tourists.

Echmiadzin (20 km west of Yerevan)

Holy Etchmiadzin is one of the most important spiritual centers of Armenia and the residence of the Armenian katalikos (that is, the supreme patriarch). Echmiadzin is located just 5 km from Zvartnots, there is a beautiful cathedral, well-groomed green area, it is pleasant to walk. Entry is free.

Garni temple (30 km east of Yerevan)

It is a pagan temple of the Hellenistic era, and one of the most popular attractions in Armenia. The temple was built in a picturesque place above the gorge of the Azat River, down the gorge, by the way, you can walk and look at the bizarre rocks. Entrance fee: 1,000 AMD.

Geghard monastery (40 km east of Yerevan)

This is a beautiful rocky monastery, located 10 km from the Garni temple. Some of the temples are completely hollowed out inside the rocks. And the very area in which the monastery is located is very picturesque - sheer cliffs, a narrow gorge, beautiful views. Public transport does not go there. Entrance: free.

What to see in Yerevan in 5 days (6.7 days)

Sights of Yerevan and its surroundings. What can you see in Yerevan if you have a lot of time left? I suggest several routes:

Route number 1:Yerevan - Khor Virap - Areni-Noravank - Tatev - Yerevan

(by car, you can have a quick look in 1 day, by public transport it is very difficult to do such a route, in 1 day you can’t just make it, you can visit it as part of or excursions)

Route number 2: Yerevan - a monument to the Armenian Alphabet - Amberd fortress - Lake Kari and Mount Aragats - Bureaukan observatory - Yerevan

(by car it will take 1 day, by bus such a route is almost impossible to do, you can visit within the framework)

Route number 3:Yerevan - Tsaghkadzor - Lake Sevan - Yerevan

(by car you will have time in half a day, by public transport 1 day, you can visit within the framework)

Khor Virap monastery (40 km south of Yerevan)

This place is stunning in its beauty and atmosphere. The best view of Mount Ararat in all its grandeur opens up from here. Entrance: free.

Areni village

Not far from Khor Virap there is a small village of Areni, where there is a winery, you can go for tasting, you can also visit the Areni cave. And then we start to the Noravank monastery.

Noravank monastery (120 km south of Yerevan)

It is located in an amazingly beautiful place high on a hill in the gorge of the Arpa River among the majestic red rocks. The road to the Monastery is very picturesque, it first winds along the gorge, and then climbs the hill along a small serpentine straight to the foot of Noravank. Entrance: free.

Tatev monastery (270 km from Yerevan)

After inspecting Noravank, we move towards Tatev, in my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful places in all of Armenia. There is stunning nature, beautiful on the mountain and one of the longest cable cars in the world "Wings of Tatev"

Amberd Fortress, Lake Kari and Mount Aragats

Aragats is the highest mountain in Armenia, and nearby is the high-mountainous lake Kari Lich. On the way to the lake we will see the ancient fortress Amberd, and in the evening we will stop by the Byurokan observatory to watch the stars.

Lake Sevan (70 km from Yerevan) - this is the largest lake in Armenia, otherwise it is called the Sevan Sea, in the summer you can swim here, sunbathe on the beach, but the rest of the time it is worth coming to taste the delicious fish (Sevan ishkhan) in one of the restaurants.

Tsaghkadzor (60 km from Yerevan) - in winter a good ski resort is open here, and in summer you can come just ride the cable car and take a walk.

Map of Yerevan with landmarks in Russian

For convenience, you can see the sights of Yerevan on a map in Russian.

Excursions in Yerevan and around

If you do not have time to independently plan a route around Yerevan, then you can easily purchase an excursion, since there are more than enough excursions here. I have made a selection of interesting excursions in Yerevan in Russian from local residents:

That's all for me, in the article I tried to describe all the sights of Yerevan known to me, which are definitely worth visiting if you are in Armenia for the first time. When going on a trip, do not forget to insure yourself. Personally, I always do insurance for, great service with great prices).

If you liked the article and was useful, write a comment and share the article with your friends on social networks (this is how I see feedback and I will be very pleased), and also subscribe to blog updates so as not to miss new blog articles.

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• (here are useful articles, as well as a selection of the best services for travelers, we use it ourselves and advise you)

Margarita, thanks for the information.
I am going to visit this city in the summer.
You probably have the most sensible note on the topic and even with a "live" map (just what the doctor ordered, otherwise you always have to collect everything yourself, in fact, for this - I bow to you :).
I will somehow (I do not know when) describe my trips, I will definitely take this moment into service. Very sensible.

I will dig additional descriptions of objects on the Internet, of course, but there is nothing special to look at, as I understand it, so ... take a walk for the soul.
Nevertheless, "for collection" I will look there, all the same the hotel is already booked. I was there on a business trip in 1994, but the city was not in its best shape at that time (but then in general there was little in the country that was in its "best shape"), and there was no time to walk around it.

Hint: you have an icon on the map indicating the Erebuni fortress "flew away" away from the real position of the fortress - correct how the time will be. I haven't looked at the rest of the objects yet, but this one is immediately noticeable.

Hint 2 (as you noted in your last comment "I will find it useful"):
Objects from the Google map (from any, and from yours) are downloaded in * .kml or * .kmz format - this is a common feature of Google maps.
These are special formats in which points plotted on the map are described in text form (point coordinates, name, description, and a number of other parameters, for example, an object's icon, or rather, a link to it, etc.).
Sequencing:
1. Open a large Google map (opens in a separate window / tab).
2. Click on the "menu" (three dots located vertically) on the red bar at the top of the left side of the window.
3. Select the "Download KML" item (it is at the bottom).
4. Select download options (by default, the KMZ format is downloaded, if you check the box, then KML).
5. Save the file to your computer / smartphone.
6. In the same formats downloaded points can be imported into many other navigation programs. I don’t know specifically about maps.me (I don’t use it), but most likely there should be such an opportunity, a popular program (something like "import objects ..." and select the desired (saved earlier) file with dots).
This is for those who do not know how, but who need it.
Basically, if you don’t mind, then you yourself can download this file (from your own card), upload it to your server and give a link to it to those who wish (right in the note), anyway, downloading it is not difficult for others.
By the way, you can also number and color your points directly on the maps.
If you need, drop me a line, I'll tell you how at my leisure.

At the very base of the biblical Mount Ararat there is an eternally young pink city - the capital of Armenia - Yerevan. Pink because many of its landmarks are built of pink tuff. Pink tuff is a light, porous rock, 90% of which is concentrated in Armenia.

The history of the Armenian capital dates back to 782 BC. It was then, according to the chronicles, by order of the ruler of the state of Urartu (located at that time on the territory of modern Armenia) Argishti I, the ancient city of Erebuni was built.

This version is confirmed by a stone slab found at the site of a historical fortress, from the southeastern side of Yerevan. The slab contains information about the beginning of the construction of the city in cuneiform.

The capital of Armenia is not for nothing considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Here you can admire both historical monuments and works of modern architectural art. Many attractions, water parks and game centers are offered for guests in Yerevan. The warm climate, the hospitality of the residents and the beauty of the city attract more and more tourists.

One of the striking religious attractions of Yerevan is the Blue or Heavenly Mosque (as it was called in the old days). The name "blue" mosque was given due to the central dome, which is decorated with blue faience tiles. And the "Heavenly" mosque was nicknamed for the feeling of tranquility and grace after visiting it.

The Muslim temple was built in 1765, at the direction of the governor of Yerevan, the Turkic khan of Erivan. Armenia at that time was an Iranian province, therefore the Iranian style of the building can be traced in every tile of the complex and symbolizes the friendship between the Armenian and Iranian people.

The Blue Mosque is the first and main attraction of Yerevan that you need to visit

The area of \u200b\u200bthe mosque is not very large (about 7000 sq. M.), But on its territory there are 28 pavilions, a unique minaret and a library where Persian is studied, and you can learn a lot about the ancient culture.

The inner courtyard of the mosque is a lovely, cozy corner. In summer, here you can hide from the scorching heat in the shade of mulberry and apricot trees and admire the fragrant rose bushes.

During the Soviet era, all mosques built on the territory of Armenia were liquidated, but the Blue Mosque was saved. At the suggestion of the famous Armenian poet Yeghishe Cherents, a museum was set up in the mosque, according to one version, and an ammunition depot according to the other. Today this mosque remains the only one in Yerevan and the largest in the entire Caucasus.

After many years of neglect and misuse of the Blue Mosque in 1995, restoration work was carried out in it and returned the title of a Muslim temple and the center of the cultural life of Muslims in Armenia.

You can find a mosque at: Mesrop Mashtots Avenue, 12, almost opposite the former Central Market (now a supermarket), or a 5-minute walk from the Children's Park or from the Republic Square.

It is necessary to enter under the arches of the mosque only with a covered head, but if one of the visitors did not take care of this in advance, then during the visit, at the entrance you can take a clean cotton hijab. Time for visitors: from 10.00 to 13.00 and from 15.00 to 18.00.

For everyone, visiting the mosque is absolutely free.

Cathedral of Saint Gregory the Illuminator

The Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator is a symbol of modern spirituality in Yerevan and the whole of Armenia. Armenians are rightfully proud of their temple, because it is one of the largest in the entire Caucasus. The cathedral's capacity is 1700 people. - this figure symbolizes the date of the conversion of the Armenian state to Christianity.

The memory of three great people was immortalized during the construction of the complex:

• saint Gregory the Enlightener himself, who boldly spread the Christian faith among the Armenian people, suffered a lot, for which he was canonized;
• tsar Tiridates III the Great, who initially cruelly persecuted Christians, but later became a Christian, eradicated paganism in Armenia and made the religion of Christ the main religion of the state.
• Queen Ashkhen, wife of King Tiridates III, who was the first associate of her husband.

The construction of the temple began at the end of the 20th century .. And ended at the beginning of the 20th century .. The project was presented by the Armenian architect Stepan Kyurchkyan. The proposal to build the temple was made by the head of the Armenian Church, Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin I. The construction was fully supported by donations from the wealthy people of Yerevan.

Church of St. Zoravor

This church is one of the most ancient sights of Yerevan. Despite the rather ascetic appearance, both from the outside and from the inside, the temple still has some decorations in the form of khachkars (crosses carved in stone surrounded by ethnic ornament) on the outside of the walls.

The history of the church dates back to the first half of the 17th century. At that time, a whole architectural ensemble was located on the site of the modern church: the Surb Astvatsin church, a number of cells, the chapel of St. Ananias, and even a monastery school was opened. All this was under the protection of the fortress walls. But in 1679 the entire complex was destroyed by a terrible earthquake.

In the construction of the current version of the temple (1693-1694), one of the richest residents of Yerevan, Khoja Phanos, covered the bulk of the costs. On one of the walls of the church there is an inscription that after exactly a century the church was renovated during the reign of Catalikos Gukas.

Today in the church you can see the image of the Madonna and Child Jesus, which dates from the 18th century. During Soviet times, this historical and religious site was inaccessible to believers. And only in the 1970s the temple was restored and returned to the Christians of Armenia.

Armenian Genocide Museum

During the First World War, during the battles between Russia and Turkey, the Armenian people sided with the Russian State. The Turks considered the Armenian people traitors, and the extermination of the inhabitants of the Armenian nationality began on the territory of the Ottoman state.

As a result of the terrible massacres, about 1.5 million Armenians were killed, and half a million survivors miraculously fled to a foreign land.

The Armenian Genocide in Turkey is the worst crime of the 20th century.

80 years after this bloody event, on one of the outskirts of Yerevan, on a hill, the Armenian Genocide Museum was created as a symbol of memory and sorrow for the innocent victims of the brutal massacre.

This is a 2-storey building with a flat roof, which offers a beautiful view of the Ararat valley. The building is half underground. In the halls of the museum, visitors can see materials related to the Genocide: notes, photographs, essays. Not only guests of Armenia come here, but also local residents in order to honor the memory of the innocent victims.

Address: Armenia, Yerevan, Kentron administrative district Open: Tue-Sun 11: 00-16: 00

House-Museum of Martiros Saryan

Martiros Saryan is a famous Armenian artist, the sun of Armenian culture. A house with a workshop was built for the master in Yerevan in 1932, where many famous people visited.

The artist painted pictures that reflected the picturesque beauty of Armenia and the character of its people. During Martiros Saryan's lifetime, in 1967 a museum was added to his house, where one could admire his works.
Currently, the place where the master's works were born is available to everyone.

Museum of the History of Yerevan

The museum was created in the early 30s of the 20th century. Long moved from place to place. Wherever he was located: in the women's gymnasium, and in the Blue Mosque, and in the building of the secondary school. The museum was given a permanent place only in 2005 in the building of the city hall, where it is located to this day.

The museum displays a variety of exhibits, from archaeological finds to written sources, photographs and paintings by famous artists. The richest history of the ancient city begins even before the birth of Christ. The distant ancestor of Yerevan, the city of Erebuni, was located on the site of the capital of Armenia. Also, many items of everyday life of primitive people were found at this place.

In the museum you can see vessels for beer, which the ancestors of modern Armenians used as early as the 12th century. BC. For example, the excavations of the Carmine Bird settlement date back to the 1st millennium BC. The past and the present can be traced by walking through the exhibition halls of the museum.

Address: Yerevan, st. Argishti, 1. You can get there by metro (station "Zoravar Andranik"). Working hours: Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 17:30, Sunday is a day off.

Modern Art Museum

It is from the works of the 60s generation that the Museum of Contemporary Art in Yerevan originates. The collection of works of masters presents paintings and sculptures of the 20-21 centuries. The building of the museum is the first in Yerevan built in a modern style of new architecture. The interior of the premises also looks like a continuation of the exterior.

The simplicity of the decoration allows you to focus on the exhibits and appreciate the imagination of modern masters. The museum was founded in 1972. At that time there was nothing like it in the Soviet Union. The government did not provide any support for the creation of this institution.

Contemporary art in those years was not in honor of the country's leadership. Therefore, the creation of the museum is entirely the merit of the progressive sixties of Armenia.
Address: Mashtots Ave., 7, Yerevan, 0002, Armenia. Working hours: from 11:00 to 18:00 (ticket office from 11:00 to 17:30). Monday is a day off.

Erebuni Museum

The Arin-Berd hill kept its secret until the middle of the 20th century. It was there that the ruins of the ancient fortress of Erebuni were discovered, the age of which was determined by archaeologists as 2500 years. The history of Yerevan begins from this place. The consonance of the present and the past unmistakably determines that the name of the Armenian capital comes from an ancient fortress.

It is logical that it was here that the decision was made to create the Erebuni Museum. The exposition of the museum tells about the life of the ancient Armenian state of Urartu. This is the military sphere, and agriculture and art. About 650 unique finds reflect the life of the past.

In the shop of the museum, you can buy souvenirs that are exact copies of the exhibits. Address: Yerevan, st. Erebuni, 38. Working hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 10: 30-16: 30. Monday is a day off.

Armenian Opera and Ballet Theater

The theater was founded in 1933. For the first time the world famous musicals “West Side Story”, operas “Oedipus the King” and “Consul” were staged there.
Now the theater's repertoire includes not only classics, but also performances by modern Armenian authors.

The remarkable architecture of the building (designed by A. Tumanyan) is the decoration of the capital. At the world architectural exhibition in 1937, the theater building won the Grand Prix.
Address: Yerevan, st. Tumanyan, 54

Yerevan Azerbaijan Theater

This is the first theater in Armenia, the performances of which were performed not in Armenian, but in Azerbaijani. It began, like many others, with non-professional performances, but very quickly won the love of the public with a good acting. The main emphasis in the selection of the repertoire was made on musical comedies, which were in great demand among the audience.

Very quickly this theater reached a high professional level. The building ceased to accommodate everyone who wanted to attend the performances, and they had to look for a more spacious room. Such premises were provided to the theater by the Dzhanpolajanov brothers.

But in 1989, due to the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, the theater had to stop its activities, and the whole team was urgently deported to Baku.
At present, the theater is successfully continuing its activities in the capital of Azerbaijan.

Yerevan Russian Theater. Stanislavsky

The classics will never go out of style. So you can say about the Yerevan Russian Theater named after Stanislavsky. In the shade of trees on Abovyan street, as if slightly hidden, the pink building of the drama theater. But bright signs and posters give out the place where the masterpieces of theatrical art are born.

The announcements of the performances do not deceive even the most picky spectator. Rich and interesting productions, great acting always attract a lot of fans.

The career of the famous and beloved by many A. Dzhigarkhanyan began in this theater.

Sculpture "Smoking woman"

This sculpture caused a very mixed reaction with its appearance. Foreign tourists, especially from far abroad, more loyal to the Art Nouveau style, highly appreciated the idea of \u200b\u200bthe sculptor Fernando Botero.

A naked woman of luxurious size lies on her stomach and holds a cigarette in her hands. For foreigners, this sculpture personifies freedom of morals and independence from other people's opinions.

Local residents, for the most part, accepted the appearance of the sculpture in a popular public place in Yerevan with hostility. Some even claimed that this installation of the sculpture violated the law on promoting smoking. Many were unhappy with the woman's nudity. After all, Armenia is a country of rather strict morals.

Monument to David Sasunsky

The spirit of the entire Armenian people was embodied in the monument, the legendary hero David of Sasun, which was installed on the Railway Station Square of Yerevan.
The hero of folk epics, David is the image of the defender of people and their native land from the Arab conquerors.

The general view of the monument will tell the attentive observer about the struggle for freedom, about heroism, about the undoubted victory of the defender of the patronymic over any enemy. The overturned bowl at the horse's hooves, from which water flows, is a symbol of the beginning of the struggle for the freedom of the Armenian people and the end of their patience.

The sculpture was installed in 1959. It surrounds its pool with a diameter of 25 m. In 2011, the monument was restored and decorated with lighting.
The beauty and expressiveness of the monument leaves an unforgettable impression on tourists and is the pride of Yerevan residents.

Lovers park

Yerevan, the sights of which can be described for a long time and with pleasure, is visited by many tourists every year. And of course lovers' park is one of the most romantic places that cannot be ignored.

The park has an interesting history dating back to the 18th century. In those days there was a medieval cemetery and a chapel in the park area. The park has been renamed several times. It was called both by the name of A. Pushkin and Barekamutyun, which means "Friendship".

Only when Armenia gained independence, in 1999 it was named the Park of Lovers. After all, most often in the shade of its trees, couples in love walked, enjoying the silence and romantic atmosphere.

At the beginning of the 21st century. the reconstruction of the park was carried out with the participation of a famous French landscape designer. In its new form, the park received an amphitheater with more than 200 seats, a statue of the famous Armenian poet Gevorg Emin. Currently, the park is very popular with both local residents and city guests.

English park of Yerevan

The favorite vacation spot of many Yerevan residents and not only them is the English Park of Yerevan. On a huge territory is the theater. Sundukyan, the French and Italian embassies. There is a rose garden and a separate park for children.

The central fountain, where young couples are traditionally photographed, gives the park a special charm. The park is decorated with sculptures of literary heroes from the productions of the famous playwright in Armenia, Sundukyan.

The park got its name in the 19th century, when it was founded. In those days, it was a resting place for the city's secular elite. Every corner of the park breathed the atmosphere of old aristocratic London. Therefore, he apparently became English.

During Soviet times, the park was named after. 26 Baku commissars. But after the collapse of the Soviet Union and the declaration of independence of Armenia, the park was returned to its original name.

Monument to Alexander Sergeevich Griboyedov

Yerevan, the sights of which continue to delight not only ordinary tourists, but also art historians, invites tourists to explore many objects. For example, the sculpture by A.S. Griboyedov, according to experts, is the best of all the created images of this great man.

The monument is located in the very center of Yerevan. Its author is the renowned sculptor Hovhannes Benjanyan and the architect Spartak Knekhtsyan.

Mother Armenia

One of the brightest and most monumental sights of Yerevan is the Mother Armenia memorial. The 54 m high sculpture depicts a woman sheathed her sword as a symbol of the end of the battle and the coming of peace. But the shield at her feet suggests that at any moment she is ready to rise again to defend her homeland.

The monument was erected only in 1967, and before him there was a monument to the great leader of all peoples I. Stalin on this site, but after 1962 the monument was removed, and Mother Armenia took its place.

Charles Aznavour square

One of the most beautiful and cozy sights of Yerevan is the square of the great chansonnier Charles Aznavour. Despite the fact that it is located in the very center of the capital, there is no city hustle and bustle.

It was equipped at the beginning of the last century and was named after the Armenian writer Khachatur Abovyan, his monument was erected in the center. At the beginning of the 21st century. It was decided to name the square in honor of the great French chansonnier with Armenian roots Charles Aznavour, who was present at the renaming of the square in his honor.

Now there is a fountain, which is decorated with a stone structure depicting the signs of the zodiac in the form of flower petals.

There is also a huge chessboard on the square with pieces of the same size. Anyone can play chess here. You can watch the novelties of the film distribution in the Moscow cinema, which is located here. And at the entrance to the square there is an alley of stars with the names of famous figures of Armenia.

Architectural complex Cascade

Yerevan, whose sights cannot be imagined without the architectural complex Cascade, delights all tourists who have visited it without exception. Without a doubt, the Cascade complex is a work of architectural art that impresses with its beauty and monumentality.

A cascade is a system of stairs laid in a certain order and decorated with flower beds, statues, fountains. Dimensions of the Cascade: 500 m long, 50 m wide, and 100 m high from the base to the top. Throughout the entire cascade, patterns of the ancient kingdom of Urartu, which was the progenitor of Yerevan, are encountered.

At night, this whole composition is decorated with amazing illumination. And inside there is an escalator, which, if necessary, will help to rise to the desired height.

Lake Sevan

The most famous lake in the Caucasus is, of course, Sevan. It is located in a mountain bowl at an altitude of about 2 km above sea level.

The beauty of the lake and its surroundings attract many tourists. Here you can escape the stifling heat from June to September. The water in the lake does not warm up too much - up to 20 degrees Celsius. But in the very heat it will be nice to cool down here.

There is a legend that says that once upon a time there were gardens on the site of the lake, they were watered from a small but strong spring. Residents who took the water covered the hole with a stone. One day, a local girl, having collected water, did not put the stone back and went back to the village. The water from the spring beat all night with a strong pressure, I flood the whole area.

In the morning, seeing the flood, one elderly man shouted: "Whoever did this, let him turn to stone!" The person responsible for the flood ran out of the house and immediately turned to stone. And the water that flooded the entire area became a lake, on which a stone island remained, like the head of that scattered girl.

According to scientists, everything is much simpler. The lake appeared after a volcanic eruption and the shift of stone plates in the mountains. The National Park "Sevan" has been created here, surrounded by numerous mineral springs, amazingly beautiful landscapes and cultural monuments.

Yerevan Brandy Factory

The Yerevan Brandy Factory is the most branded attraction in Yerevan. Gourmet Armenian brandy is appreciated all over the world. Visiting Armenia, one cannot fail to taste the Armenian brandy and miss the pleasure of seeing the process of its preparation. Therefore, guests of Yerevan always strive to come with an excursion to the Yerevan Brandy Factory.

The history of the plant begins with the victory of the Russian Empire over the Persian invaders who tried to subjugate Armenia. After the restoration of peace, a new history of Yerevan began, at the same time a new milestone in the creation of Armenian brandy.

In this, the main role was played by Prince Shustov, who organized the production of the best cognac at that time. This confirms the receipt of the main prize at the exhibition in Paris.

Today the Armenian brandy produced by the Yerevan Brandy Factory is in demand in many countries of the world. There are many legends about the history of the factory and the cognac itself. Some of them tell stories during excursions around the enterprise. Undoubtedly, after visiting the factory, the question of what to bring friends from Yerevan as a souvenir will disappear by itself.

Evening entertainment

Jazz lovers will be interested in visiting the well-known not only in Yerevan “Makhaz Jazz Club” club, where the popular jazzman Levon Malkhasyan often performs with interesting jazz improvisations.
In this club you can meet famous Russian artists who are not indifferent to good quality music.

Yerevan bars

The traditional pride of all Armenians is cognac.

While in Yerevan, it is worth visiting one of the establishments where they offer many varieties of brandy and cocktails, the basis of which is this wonderful drink, especially in Armenia.

Where to eat deliciously

It is impossible to visit Yerevan and not taste local delicacies. To do this, you can go to the market, which is located next to Republic Square. The abundance of dishes here is striking in its variety. Delicious baklava, yogurt (fermented milk product), local honey, natural berry marshmallow, different types of cheese, basturma (jerky) - all this can be tried before buying.

Where to go with your child in Yerevan

Yerevan, the sights of which will be interesting to visit both for adults and their children, provides tourists with many exciting routes and entertainment.

What to see in Yerevan in 2-3 days

Armenia is a very ancient country with a rich and interesting history. It is worth starting to get acquainted with Yerevan with the history museum. Then it will be interesting to visit the Tsitsenakaberd memorial - a complex built in memory of the victims of the genocide. This is an integral part of the history of the Armenian people.

After lunch, you can leave the city and visit one of the most beautiful and interesting places - Emchiadzin. On the second day, it makes sense to see the Garni Temple - this is the only pagan monument left in Armenia. There is another one near this interesting place. This is a monastery, half carved into the rock.

Garni temple

It is called the Monastery of the Spear. According to legend, a spear is kept there, with which a Roman soldier struck Jesus Christ, and another Christian shrine that cannot be ignored is Khor Virap.

The founder of the Armenian Church, St. Gregory the Illuminator, spent 13 years in the dungeon of this monastery. An evening spent on Republic Square, surrounded by singing fountains and good music, will be the perfect end to a busy and informative day.

The third day of the tour should be spent enjoying the views of the world famous Cascade. And if you get to the very top, you will have a stunning view of the capital. And you should definitely go to the Yerevan Brandy Factory.

What to bring from Yerevan

Armenia is a country of ancient customs, beautiful culture and, of course, winemaking and cognac.

Therefore, the choice of what to bring with you as souvenirs will be difficult, but rich:

Any souvenir bought in Armenia will be a pleasant gift, because it carries a part of the sunny and hospitable land.
The sights of Yerevan are worth seeing for everyone who is interested in history and loves to travel or just want to have an interesting and exciting time.

Article design: Vladimir the Great

Video about Yerevan

Eagle and Tails issue about Yerevan:

Perhaps there is no city in the world more hospitable than Yerevan. The sights, photos of which you can find below, are always ready to tell you a little more about this unusual place. The Pink City is the name of the Armenian city. Welcome to the most ancient lands of Yerevan and its surroundings.

Grand cascade in Yerevan

For many residents of Yerevan, a variety of places in the city are special, but most agree that the Grand Cascade is the main attraction. This masterpiece is located on the Kanaker Hills and is an amazing ensemble, skillfully combining fountains, stairs, sculptures, flower beds.

The creation of the architect Tamanyan became the main miracle of the capital of Armenia. Subsequently, a monument to this man even appeared here. The main purpose of the huge snow-white staircase is to connect the lower part of the city with the upper one. An amazing view of the entire city opens from the height of the sight.

Blue Mosque in Yerevan

On the map of Yerevan, the Blue Mosque in 1768. The shrine was created as a symbol of great friendship between the two peoples - Iranian and Armenian. The attraction is enormous in size, being the largest Muslim cathedral in the entire Caucasus.

The shrine consists of 28 pavilions. It also boasts a minaret, which is 24 m high.

The highlight of the building is that all the domes are covered with majolica and faience tiles. In the courtyard of the mosque there is a place that Yeghishe Charents considered his favorite and often dropped in here. In the shade of a mulberry tree, he was very fond of drinking tea.

House-museum of Aram Khachaturian

No other city in the Caucasus can boast of such a huge number of attractions as Yerevan. There are unique structures, monuments and fountains everywhere. The locals consider the house-museum of the beautiful Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian to be a real gem.

Local authorities organized a museum in the building back in 1982, almost immediately after the death of the musician. The house belonged to Aram's brother. Vaghinak and his family lived here for a long time, and Aram often came to visit them.

The music of the composer is regularly played in the museum. The director of the institution is the most talented conductor Gohar Harutyunyan.

Yerevan Zoo

Every resident and guest of the city knows about the funniest place in the capital - the Yerevan Zoo. Walking along it is equally interesting and educational for both young visitors and adults.

The first guests appeared at the zoo back in 1941. The project was carried out by the architect Grigory Aghababyan. The territory is home to more than two and a half thousand animals. Also here you can see about 300 species of various reptiles, birds and other representatives of the fauna. The total area of \u200b\u200bthe zoo is 25 hectares. In addition to the pet enclosures, there are also various carousels where the youngest visitors can have a great time.

Erebuni fortress

Around 782 BC, a large fortress appeared on Red Hill. This strategic facility served as an observation post for the entire Ararat valley.

The construction of the fortress was led by the ruler of the Kingdom of Van Argishti the First.

According to legend, after the completion of construction, King Argishti declared the city the greatest in the world, where the most proud and unconquered people will live.

Residents of Yerevan believe that more than 2700 years ago, the modern capital of Armenia was born within the walls of the Erebuni fortress. Tourists visiting the city can look with interest at the ruins of the citadel and the huge walls, the height of which was more than 12 m.

Monument "Mother Armenia"

Armenia, like most of the neighboring states, felt the horror and grief of the Great Patriotic War. That is why there is a large monument "Mother Armenia" in Yerevan, the height of which is 54 m. The monument is completely made of copper and symbolizes the struggle of the Armenian people against the invaders.

The motherland is depicted as a woman who sheathes a sword. The sculpture itself is 22 meters high. It is installed on a huge 32-meter pedestal. Like most such attractions, this one has a museum located at the base. There is a huge exposition of items that tell about military events and battles.

Sergei Parajanov Museum

There are many interesting museums in the city of Yerevan that can tell a lot of interesting things, but a museum dedicated to the work of the unique director Sergei Parajanov will be of interest to everyone.

This man was born in 1924, into an Armenian family, in the Georgian city of Tbilisi. He devoted all his work to his historical homeland - Armenia. That is why, in 1991, the Parajanov Museum was opened in Yerevan. The museum is a small house where the director spent his free time. Here is a large exposition of his artwork, beliefs and objects that help to understand the essence of a genius person.

Monument to David Sasunsky

Every guest of the city of Yerevan who comes to the railway station is greeted by a beautiful statue of David of Sasun. The monument is a huge stone on which a rider on horseback stands. The height of the sculpture, made of forged copper, is 12.5 meters, and its weight is more than three and a half tons.

According to folk stories and legends, David was a great hero and hero with unique strength. He helped people and by his deeds carried good to the world.

The entire monument symbolizes determination and valor, which is manifested in the battle with enemies.

Singing fountains of Yerevan

The Singing Fountains are located in Freedom Square and are located opposite the Museum of Armenia. This miracle of technology was created about 50 years ago. The outstanding scientist Abram Abrahamyan supervised the creation of the landmark. Tourists travel great distances to see these beautiful fountains.

Sisian

On the very bank of the Vorotan River there is a small, but very beautiful and cozy settlement called Sisian. The first attraction is the forty-meter Shaki waterfall, surrounded by grottoes and rocks. Also nearby is an ancient shrine - St. George Church. It was built back in the 7th century.

Rock formations can be seen everywhere around the town of Sisian. They are engraved with inscriptions and drawings dating back to the second millennium BC.

This concludes our touristic overview "Yerevan: attractions (photo with description)". Do you know something special about the beauty of the city and its surroundings? Then we are waiting for you with your comments in the comments.