Armenia is a country with a very ancient culture, which has survived to this day. Various sights of Armenia, and unusual, but very tasty local cuisine will not leave you indifferent. Returning from Armenia, you will take a piece of this country with you forever. And after a while, you want to come back again. And in order to be seduced completely, we offer you a list of the most interesting sights of Armenia, which you should pay special attention to.
What to see in Armenia?
The main and most interesting places countries with photos and descriptions.
1. Blue Mosque
Today the Blue Mosque is the only Muslim creed in all of Yerevan. The history of this famous sight of Armenia began in 1766. Built by order of the great khan Huseynali-khan Qajar, it has been an adornment of the city throughout its existence. Unfortunately, the mosque did not survive in its original form, and only one of the four minarets has survived to this day. Many pilgrims, leaving the mosque, feel overwhelming happiness and peace.
The temple is quite inconspicuous, it is almost impossible to see from the street. To do this, you will have to go through the arch, and, passing the apricot grove, go straight to the mosque. The blue dome will make sure you have come to the right place.
2. Noravank Monastery Complex
The monastic complex of Noravank was built in the XIII-XIV centuries. The literal translation means "new monastery". At one time, this monastery received bishops into its walls and was last refuge princes Orbelian, whose graves can be seen on the territory of Noravank. All parts of the monastery include two church buildings and one chapel. Surb Astvatsatsin Church is the main attraction. With its unusual entrance on the second floor and an unusual double staircase without railings, it significantly limits the visit of tourists. Not every person decides to climb it, risking falling to the bottom.
Surb Karapet is the second church, it looks less elegant, although it was built in the 13th century. The architecture was severely damaged several times by local earthquakes. Considering historical meaning and a location surrounded by picturesque nature, Norvank is an attraction in Armenia that is worth a visit for a tourist.
3. Grand Cascade in Yerevan
If you come to the capital of Armenia, be sure to visit the most important attraction of Yerevan - the Grand Cascade. Climbing this man-made structure, you will see many ordered sculptures, stone stairs of various length and width. Fountains and flower beds pleasantly refresh and fill the air with unique aromas. All this man-made beauty is located on one of the slopes of the Kanaker Hills in the heart of the city itself. The cascade is undeniably considered a decoration of the city, and one of the best views of the city and the peaks of the famous Ararat opens from its top. If you come to the Cascades at night, you will be able to see the fabulous landscape of night Yerevan.
4. Ararat
Each country has its own pride, the people of which admire and this attraction makes many tourists come. For Armenia, this is the famous Mount Ararat. The mountain consists of two peaks: Small and Big Ararat. The highest of them divides the mountain in half, giving part of it to Turkish possessions. The mountain is considered sacred, and according to legends, it was on the top of this mountain that Noah's ark found its refuge. Pilgrims strive to get to the top, and the inhabitants of the country themselves consider this a godless thing. In order to climb the mountain, it is enough to obtain a special permit from the authorities of the country, and be in good physical shape.
5. Lake Sevan
We have already seen that the natural sights of Armenia are amazing. Sevan is another proof of this. This alpine lake has spread out its transparent and clear waters at an altitude of 1916 meters above sea level. Surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks and lush shores, the lake attracts contemplation lovers, and for good reason. Once on the shore, you can look at it for a very long time, and not even feel that the time has passed imperceptibly. The locals revere it sacred lake, and believe that the gods themselves drink from its waters. Along the shore of Lake Sevan, on this moment, is home to about 250 thousand inhabitants. They have created excellent conditions for tourists to stay and rest, which can be used by any traveler.
6. Erebuni
For those wishing to travel by time machine, in Armenia there is an opportunity to visit the ruins of the Erebuni fortress. As mentioned above, this is an ancient country, and the first stone capital was built 2.7 thousand years ago. It was not only the capital of ancient Armenia, but also a fairly serious defensive structure that protected local residents. Located in picturesque valley Ararat, an ancient fortress is a treasure useful information for archaeologists. They still find many useful and unusual artifacts at the excavations. It is enough to walk around the fortress on your own to make sure that the people of this country could perfectly stand up for themselves many centuries ago.
7. Geghardavank monastery
Geghardavank Monastery is a truly unique and unrepeatable place in Armenia, included in the UNESCO heritage list. According to legend, it was in this monastery for a very long time that the monks kept a spear with which one of the guards pierced Jesus Christ when he was hanging on the cross. The first stone monastery on this site was founded in the 4th century. But the regular raids of the Arabs did not go unnoticed, the monastery was destroyed. At the moment, the complex consists of several churches and a special cave with a spring. Geghardavank Monastery does not attract with its bright decoration; it is a true abode of hermits who decided to devote their lives to the Orthodox faith. Nevertheless, this place is a very popular tourist destination in Armenia.
8. Garni Temple
Garni Temple is another proof that the architectural sights of Armenia are worth the attention of tourists. Anyone who first enters the territory of this temple, the slender rows of Greek and Roman columns come to mind. Indeed, even within the country, the name of the temple “Armenian Parthenon” has taken root. But oddly enough, it has nothing to do with Ancient Greece... Slender columns, perfectly preserved mosaics and porticoes were erected by local builders by order of local kings. For many centuries, the Mihra Temple in Garni was used as a summer residence, and great people regularly rested in its vaults. After the last earthquake, the temple was completely restored and is available to tourists as a historical site.
9. Historical Museum of Armenia
Located in the capital, the Historical Museum of Armenia was founded back in 1921 together with an art gallery. If it was decided to leave the paintings on the upper floors of the complex, then the museum itself was located on two underground levels. If you are interested in the history of the country from its inception to the present day in interesting details, the guides will gladly take you through all the halls and tell you everything in order. You will be able to see with your own eyes the archaeological department, the department of numismatics and historical architecture. It is difficult to list all the artifacts owned by a modern museum. Moreover, the exposition is constantly updated with new archaeological finds. As they say, it is better to see once.
10. Etchmiadzin Cathedral
To get into this sacred place, you will first have to get to the city of Vagharshapat. Despite its unpretentiousness, the temple is an excellent example of architecture of the 4th century, and after many alterations and improvements, it has come down to us in its original form. But this did not in any way affect its attractive and ascetic architecture. No wonder the building was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Echmiadzin Cathedral is not just a temple, but a stronghold of faith of the Apostolic Church of Armenia, and attracts many pilgrims to its walls. You can inspect the temple not only from the outside, but also go inside. The pointed bell towers stand out a little against the background of other religious buildings, but do not spoil the overall impression of the visit.
11. Sevanavank monastery
This beautiful Armenian landmark is located on the shores of the high-mountainous Lake Sevan. Like other monasteries in Armenia, Sevanavank attracts tourists and pilgrims with an unusual view and landscape. He has very unusual story... For centuries, Sevanavank was located on an island surrounded by the waters of Sevan. But in 1981, they began to build a special drainage tunnel, completed in 2003. He drastically reduced the size of the lake, and the island turned into a peninsula. But this did not in any way affect the unique view of the lake, which opens from the territory of the Sevanavank monastery and the view of the snow-capped mountain peaks. Near the temple there are the remains of an older structure, which you can touch with your own hands.
12. Zvartnots Temple
The temple of Zvartnots has not survived to this day. On the hill you can see only grandiose ruins, from which the majestic structure is easily guessed. Numerous archaeologists have unearthed many artifacts, including a miniature model of Zvartnotsok. Built in the middle of 600, the temple has stood on the top of the hill for almost 300 years. And only during the strongest earthquake in 930, it was completely destroyed under its own weight. At the moment, on the square of the complex, you can consider possible reconstruction of the temple according to historical descriptions.
13. Tatev Monastery Complex
Of all the complexes of monasteries in Armenia, Tatev is perhaps the most visited and unusual. In order to get into it, you will need to drive 20 km from the village of Goris. And together with hundreds of other tourists, get into the walls of the ancient Orthodox monastery... Tatev began its history from the 9th century AD, but not only this it became famous. For those who are not afraid of cable cars, they can visit the Wings of Tetev and experience the greatness of the ancient builders. Surrounded by mountains, a natural bridge and cave was formed under the general name Satani Kamurj. This unique object also attracts curious glances. Several ancient temples of some of the first Christians and other interesting sights will not let you get bored during the day.
14. Khor Virap monastery
Near the highest and most beautiful mountain Ararat, the Khor Virap monastery has spread its ancient walls. Its walls were a medieval prison that kept criminals behind thick walls and secure bars in the 4th century AD. Since then, everything has changed a lot, and the monastery is used only for church purposes. But for curious tourists, the cells of the underground prison have retained their original gloom and forever absorbed the state of hopelessness of the prisoners. The contrast of the underground is the incredible beauty of the landscape that opens from the walls of the monastery to the snow-covered Mount Ararat. Thanks to the cleanest air and the absence of clouds, the mountain is perfectly visible for most of the year. This is one of the most visited attractions in Armenia.
Garni is a pagan temple in the Hellenic style, built of basalt in the 1st century AD. The temple was dedicated to the sun god Mithra. Survived after the adoption of Christianity by Armenia in 301. In 1679, as a result of a strong earthquake, it was destroyed, restoration work was carried out in the 60s and 70s of the XX century. Garni is located only 28 km from Yerevan, so it is definitely worth including in the list of must-see places.2. See the peaks of Ararat
Although Ararat is located on the territory of Turkey and is itself high point, this does not prevent him from being a symbol of Armenia. It was to the top of Ararat, according to the Bible, that Noah's ark moored. In order to admire the mountain, you need to go to the Khor Virap monastery, from where Ararat opens in all its glory. Looking at him, you feel all the greatness of nature and feel like a small grain of sand in vast world... Each tourist describes Ararat differently, this is due to the fact that it changes color depending on the weather. The sun's rays play on the snow-covered slopes, thereby creating a whole range of colors. Khor Virap is also known for the fact that Gregory the Illuminator spent 15 years here in an underground prison. 
3. Take a look at Lake Sevan
Lake Sevan is located in the mountains at an altitude of 1900 m, it is the largest lake in the Caucasus. One gets the impression that the water surface can touch the clouds - an amazing sight. The lake is so big that some locals call it the sea. And indeed, standing on the shore, you might think that there is an endless sea in front of you. Around the lake are located amazing mountains giving the landscape even greater grandeur. This is a great place to spend the whole day breathing clean air and swimming in the legendary lake. 
4. Visit the origins of Christianity
Echmiadzin, a holy city for Armenians, is located 20 km from Yerevan on the Ararat plain. An ancient legend says that the city was founded by King Trdat the Third. This king wanted to take the beautiful Hripsime, who was one of the preachers of Christianity, as his concubine. The virgin did not agree to surrender to the pagan king and accepted a martyr's death: she and her Christian friends were stoned to death. After that, the king fell seriously ill, but miraculously recovered after repentance and acceptance of the Christian faith. Cathedral, built at the behest of the king in 301, is recognized as one of the oldest Christian cathedrals in the world. The city is now the residence of the patriarch. Tourists can visit the Church of the Martyr Hripsime in Echmiadzin, the temple of St. Shokagat, the Basilica of St. Gayane - they were Hripsime's friends and died with her. 
5. Find yourself inside the rock
Geghard is an ancient historical monument listed World heritage UNESCO. Hundreds of tourists come here every day, the reason for this is the unusual architecture. Several temples of the monastery complex are carved into the rock. Geghard was founded in the 9th century, it is believed that Gregory the Illuminator himself was involved in this. 
6. Relax in Jermuk
Jermuk is a mountain balneological resort located at an altitude of 2100 m. The water temperature in thermal springs ranges from 20 to 65 degrees. Here you can enjoy the beauty of nature, heal mineral water, as well as go skiing or swim in the mountain river. 
7. Take a ride on the world's longest cable car
The history of Tatev monastery has more than ten centuries. Initially, it was home to about a thousand people, in the XIV century this place became the scientific center of the country. In 1435 the monastery was burned down, however, it is well preserved to this day and is gradually being restored.The world's longest cable car, the Wings of Tatev, leads to the Tatev Monastery. The length of the road is 5700 meters, it is included in the Guinness Book of Records. The overhead wagon covers the distance in about twelve minutes, and beyond its windows stretch gorges, plains and majestic mountains.
8. Visit Noravank
Noravank is a monastery complex founded at the beginning of the 13th century. This historical monument is located in unusual place, in the gorge of the Arpa river. On both sides, the complex is surrounded by red rocks, and it itself was built of stones that broke away from the rocks. 
9. Take a horse ride
Horseback riding is very popular in Armenia, perhaps this is the best way to experience the beauty of the local nature. Sit in the saddle for a few hours or go on a multi-day horse trek - it's up to you. All routes follow scenic spots, through mountains, meadows and rivers, you can also visit some historical monuments. 
10. Try local cuisine
Among the most popular Armenian dishes are basturma, sujukh, harisa, khashlama, dolma, lagmajo, khachapuri, shashlik and, of course, lavash. The peculiarity of Armenian cuisine is that almost all dishes are saturated with fresh herbs and spices. If there are no herbs in the recipe itself, then fresh herbs will definitely be served on the table separately. Everything looks so delicious that you want to eat it all at once. Along with this wonderful food, you should definitely try Armenian brandy, which is appreciated all over the world. 
Armenia is a state with an ancient history, located in a very picturesque area. There are many places left here that have retained their unique flavor.
This is the oldest word that best describes Armenia. Indeed, this country was the first to adopt Christianity, because there are many ancient temples here, and the great culture of the state of Urartu still remains a mystery and causes awe of scientists. A thousand-year observatory, mountain villages where houses were built a couple of hundred years ago, the ruins of fortresses - all this can be seen in Armenia.
And also very hospitable people live here, tourist tours are very cheap, accommodation for the night too. We advise travelers during their holidays in Armenia to completely switch to the local cuisine. Believe me, you have never eaten such a delicious barbecue anywhere! And there is also the freshest baked lavash, duduk, famous brandy, churchkhela and wine with you.
Visit Lake Sevan and Tatev Monastery, wander through the mountains, get acquainted with the unimaginably ancient history of Armenia, and in search of modern entertainment go to Yerevan, a city that quite successfully combines innovation with ancient traditions.
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What to see in Armenia?
The most interesting and Beautiful places, photos and a short description.
1. Lake Sevan
The pearl of Armenia, located at an altitude of 1916 meters above sea level. With its clear water and green shores surrounded by mountain peaks, Sevan is called one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the world. The ancient Armenians believed that the Gods drink from Sevan, therefore they treated it with great trepidation. Now over 250 thousand people live on the shores of the lake, excellent conditions have been created for recreation here, and the area is simply created to admire nature.
2. Observatory Karahunj (Zorats-Karer)
At first glance, this is not an observatory at all, but blocks of stones that someone has placed in an incomprehensible to modern people, but well traced order. Scientists have recognized that Zorats-Karer is indeed an observatory. It is located on a mountain plateau near the city of Sisian. The complex includes many standing stones, some with holes. Archaeologists have found burials here, a corral for livestock, as well as a special arrangement of stones, allowing you to observe the Sun and Moon.
3. Mount Ararat
Ararat is the pride of Armenia, its very famous peak which she shares with Turkey. They share Small and Big Ararat, but both peaks are considered sacred. Local residents believed that climbing Mount Ararat, where according to legend, stopped the ark of Noah after the flood, was a godless business. Today, everyone who is confident in their strengths and preparation can climb Mount Ararat, they only need to buy the appropriate voucher and obtain permission from the authorities.
4. Tatev monastery
The most famous and ancient monastery complex in Armenia, located 20 kilometers from the city of Goris. Today it tourist complex which attracts thousands of travelers. Tatev is famous not only for its history (it was built in the 9th century), but also for the “Wings of Tatev” cable car, as well as for the natural Satani Kamurj bridge and the cave of the same name. In Tatev, you can see several ancient temples and many other attractions at once.
5. Sanahin
This is another famous monastery complex built in the 10th century. Included in the UNESCO list. Sanahin is known for its original architecture and rich history... Into a harmoniously formed architectural ensemble Sanahin includes a cathedral with the remains of paintings, several groups of sculptural images, chapels, churches, a tomb, as well as an original arched bridge decorated with figures of wild cats.
6. Mountains of the Lesser Caucasus
They differ from their “brother” of the Greater Caucasus in the lower height of the peaks, but this does not at all make them less attractive for tourists and climbers. The most high peak Lesser Caucasus - Mount Aragats with a height of 4090 meters - is located in Armenia. The Lesser Caucasus includes seven ridges, between the peaks of which there are cozy green valleys and untouched forests. The nature here is amazingly beautiful, so it would be a big mistake not to visit this place.
7. Church of St. Hripsime
The church in the city of Vagharshapat, built in the 17th century, still attracts tourists with its unusual architecture. The Church of St. Hripsime looks both powerful and graceful, majestic and calm. A legend is connected with the construction of the church about Christian girls who fled from Rome to Armenia, but were killed here by the local king, who then repented, was baptized and erected this unusual church, named after one of the girls.
8. Matenadaran
There is a unique repository of ancient manuscripts in Yerevan - Matenadaran. To see this building and its exhibits, one should climb the mountain along Mashtots Avenue. Near the entrance, you will be greeted by sculptures depicting Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian writing and his student. Today Matenadaran is the largest repository of ancient Armenian manuscripts on the planet, although earlier the collection was plundered several times.
9. Etchmiadzin Cathedral
The main temple of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The Etchmiadzin Cathedral is located in the city of Vagharshapat, included in the UNESCO list. This is one of the oldest Christian churches on the planet, built in the 4th century! The cathedral, of course, has undergone many reconstructions over the years, the last one in the 20th century. The temple is distinguished by its magnificent decoration, strict lines and special architecture, complemented by pointed bell towers.
10. Temple of Mihra in Garni
This unusual temple is called the "Armenian Parthenon". The Mihr temple in Garni really looks antique, it seems that it was somehow miraculously transferred to Armenia from Ancient Greece. Slender columns, porticoes, luxurious mosaics - the Armenian kings gladly used the Mihr temple as a summer residence. It was carefully restored after the earthquake and now it regularly hosts historical performances.
11. Erebuni Fortress
If you want to see what the capital of Armenia looked like as far back as 2.7 thousand years ago, be sure to take time to visit the Erebuni fortress, which became the first serious defensive structure in the country. Erebuni still keeps a lot of mysteries, archaeologists continue to find unique artifacts here. And the fortress itself, located in the valley of Ararat, looks very beautiful.
12. Yerevan cascade
The cascade occupies the status of the main attraction of Yerevan, therefore, to visit the capital of Armenia and not see this man-made miracle will be a big omission. The cascade represents artistically designed and ordered sculptures, stairs, fountains and flower beds, picturesquely located on the slopes of the Kanaker Hills. This is really the main decoration of the city, and from the top of the Yerevan Cascade a wonderful view of the whole city and the top of Ararat will open.
13. Khor Virap
Khor Virap is located at the foot of the most famous mountain in Armenia - Ararat, above the underground prison, which was used in the 4th century. The views from the monastery are really amazing, however, its buildings themselves are interesting for their history and interior decoration... We advise you to visit the cells of the underground prison, which have survived to this day, and the Church of Our Lady.
14. Republic Square in Yerevan
The architecture of Republic Square was created until 1958; it is formed by five buildings located here: the Central Post Office building, the National Historical Museum of Armenia, the country's Ministry of Energy, the Government of Armenia and the “Marriott Armenia” hotel. It is noteworthy that all the buildings are made of pouf and represent a single architectural ensemble. We advise you to visit the square in the evening, when the singing fountain turns on here, changing the illumination.
15. Tsitsernakaberd
This memorial Complex, erected on the hill of the same name and dedicated to the Armenian genocide at the beginning of the twentieth century. Tsitsernakaberd includes a 44-meter stele, a cone-shaped pedestal with a burning eternal flame, a wall of mourning and the Armenian Genocide Museum. The stele is split, which symbolizes the separation of the Armenian people, most of which live in the diaspora precisely because of the genocide. The place is beautiful, memorable and a little sad.
16. Geghard Monastery
Geghard is one of the most favorite tourist destinations in Armenia due to its ancient history, unique architecture and proximity to the capital of the country. Geghard is located 40 kilometers from Yerevan, in the picturesque gorge of the mountain river Goght. The monastery is built on rocks, many rooms are simply hollowed out inside the cliffs, and the stone walls are decorated with steles with crosses.
Armenia is one of the most ancient states on earth. Largely in connection with this, the country received a second name - an open-air museum.
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Attractions Armenia. The most interesting and main sights of cities and regions of Armenia: photos and descriptions, location. What to see in Armenia in winter for a tourist.
Armenia is one of the most ancient states on earth. Largely in connection with this, the country received a second name - an open-air museum.
There are more than 40 thousand historical monuments on the territory of the country. And most of it is Christian monasteries and churches.
Highest density main attractions of Armenia concentrated in the vicinity of Yerevan and Kumayri.
Yerevan
There are many monuments on the territory of the city, including one of oldest temples in Europe - Zvartnots, the construction of which dates back to the 7th century AD, the center of the Armenian Gregorian Church of Etchmiadzin, the most magnificent temples Hripsime and Gayane, and also famous all over the world Institute of Ancient Manuscripts... The capital of Armenia is beautiful zoo and Botanical Garden, the remains of an ancient Roman fortress and a mosque from the 18th century. We advise you to visit historical Museum, in which there are many interesting exhibits, such as the keys to Yerevan fortress and numerous samples of clothes and utensils of the townspeople.
Cross carved from stone. This Armenian phenomenon is a symbol of the centuries-old and heavy suffering of the people, sacrifice and blood loss. The monument is one of the most impressive sightseeing in Armenia .
Pagan temple in Garni
The fortress and temple of Garni was built in the 3rd millennium BC. Earlier on this site there was an ancient cyclopean church - berdshena. During the reign of the kings from the Ervandid dynasty, Garni was their residence and the place of residence of their troops. Another outstanding work of ancient architects is the Princely residence of Tsar with the churches of Surb Sargis, Surb Grigor and Surb Astvatsatsin and the Getamech monastery (XII-XIII centuries AD). The greatest miracle Armenia - Gandzasar Monastery (1216 - 1238), often referred to as the pearl of architecture.
An ancient monastery, the first buildings of which were erected in the 4th century AD. Its name translates as "spear". According to an old legend, a spear was kept in this monastery, with which the Roman guards pierced Jesus Christ.
Memorial Complex
The monument to the victims of the genocide of the Armenian people is located on the Tsitsernakaberd hill. The construction was completed in 1965, on the 50th anniversary of the genocide. Architecturally, it represents a 44-meter stele, symbolizing the revival of the Armenian people. Next to the stele there are 12 pylons, in the center of which there is an eternal flame. Nearby are bas-reliefs that describe a tragic page in the life of Armenia.
The main natural attraction of Armenia. On the territory adjacent to the lake there is a beautiful National park, which includes the lake itself, the depth of which reaches 86 meters, and the area is more than 1200 square kilometers. The nearby Khorovsky Nature Reserve is home to jackals, lynxes, Syrian bears and wild boars. Also located in Armenia wonderful resorts such as Dilijan, Tsaghkadzor, Jermuk and many others.
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The Khor Virap monastery, 45 km from Yerevan, stands almost at the foot of Ararat - the mountain is so close that it seems that you can reach it. And yet, the symbol of Armenia is located abroad, on the territory of Turkey.
In the capital of Armenia, there are cafes on every corner, but if you want to get the maximum experience, you should not sit at the table: go around the hospitable city, where summer lasts from May to October, and then take a car ride or sightseeing bus in its surroundings.
1. Think about the soul
It is worth going to Yerevan at least to look at Ararat. In clear weather, you can see it entirely, from the foot to the top, and there are no other mountain ranges around that obscure this unusually majestic, even exciting sight. The mountain, to which Noah's ark moored in Old Testament times, is different all the time: it changes color from blue to pink, then suddenly disappears completely, then it shows only the top with the clouds sticking to it. It is simply impossible to take your eyes off the mountain. Against such a powerful background, everything around is filled with a completely different meaning and it becomes clear why for the Armenians of the whole world Ararat is more than beautiful mountain... This is our soul.
----- BR ----- 2. Bow to the saint
A trip to the capital of Armenia is rarely limited to the city itself - Yerevan is surrounded by amazing sights. One of them, the Khor Virap monastery, stands practically at the foot of Mount Ararat - here it is good to sit on a low stone fence and, looking at the mountain, plunge into thoughts about the eternal. The temple was built on the site of an underground dungeon, into which Tsar Trdat III threw Saint Gregory the Illuminator to certain death. But when, 15 years later, the surviving prisoner cured Trdat of his illness, he unconditionally accepted his faith, and Gregory the Illuminator became the first Armenian Catholicos. At this place, a chapel was first built, and then a monastery with a theological seminary.
There are countless stone khachkars decorated with carved crosses throughout the country
3. Touch the lace made of stone
Wherever you go, you will come across khachkars - stone slabs with openwork crosses carved on them. There are about 900 khachkars in the village of Noraduz alone on Lake Sevan. The Armenian cross itself is also noteworthy - the sign of suffering is bushy and sprouting with flowers, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ and the tree of life. Khachkars are not only a testimony of faith, but also a kind of prayers to the Lord, which explains their general style with an endless variety of ornamental solutions. It is believed that one of the most beautiful khachkars, dating back to 1291, is located in the Goshavank monastery complex. If you don't get there, go to the National History Museum, which displays another masterpiece by the same master Poghos.
4. See the world through the eyes of a genius
An Armenian from Tbilisi who has lived part of his life in Kiev, Sergei Parajanov, after perestroika, was going to live in Yerevan. After the death of the director, the works bequeathed to Armenia were placed in the house built for him. This is how this amazing museum appeared in the city, which is a must-see. Someone said about Parajanov that he was not a talent, but was a genius. Looking at collages, installations and sculptures made of scraps of paper, glass shards, scraps, wood chips, wire, you really start to understand the difference.
The Parajanov House-Museum in Yerevan may well compete with the Dali Theater-Museum in Figueres
5. Try dolma where they can cook it
Remember "Mimino": "They just don't know how to cook dolma"? So, in Yerevan, of course, they know how to cook dolma. It is delicious almost everywhere, but Dolmama restaurant is especially famous for it. (Pushkin, 10, dolma - 500 rubles)- a favorite place for foreign guests to Yerevan. In addition to ideal dolma, the menu includes almost all the best dishes of Armenian cuisine in a flawless modern interpretation. In addition, Dolmama has exemplary service, and in the summer tables are laid in a cozy courtyard. However, there are many places in Yerevan where you can eat deliciously. Fine cuisine and atmosphere - at The Club (Tumanyan, 40, dolma - 285 rubles), which has a shop, tea and cafe. Excellent kebabs and kebabs - in the tavern "At Artash" (Moskovyan, 31, average bill - from 250 rubles), classic Armenian cuisine with Georgian touches - in "Kavkaz" (Hanrapetutyan, 82, average bill - from 400 rubles.), khinkali of all possible varieties - in the restaurant "Khinkali" (Tumanyan, 21/1, average bill - from 30 rubles.).
Some researchers consider Armenia to be the birthplace of dolma
6. Make sure that dolma is not everything
Not everyone knows that Armenian cuisine exists in two versions: Eastern Armenian is widespread on the territory of modern Armenia, and Western Armenian is eaten by Armenians who have lived in the Middle East since time immemorial. When the policy of repatriation began after the war, people coming to the Armenian SSR brought their own food with them. So in Yerevan, they began to eat lamajo (cakes with minced lamb meat), ishli-kebab (cutlets in the shell of fried bulgur) and hummus (chickpea paste). And thanks to the current wave of Armenians from Syria, new places with Western Armenian cuisine began to open, for example Anteb (E. Kokhbatsi, 30, average bill - from 40 rubles)... And do not be confused by the modest interior - there is an excellent menu and the best lamajos in the city. Order more snacks - they are the tastiest in Middle Eastern cuisine.
7. Visit the spiritual center of the country
In the list of must-see places in the vicinity of Yerevan in the first place, of course, is Echmiadzin - the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, which includes the cathedral, theological seminary and the residence of the Supreme Patriarch-Catholicos of All Armenians with a wonderful museum. As you know, Armenia was the first state in the world to officially adopt Christianity in 301. The cathedral was founded two years later, so it can be considered the world's first state-owned Christian church. The grounds of this complex, lined with shady trees and flowers, are extraordinarily beautiful. On the way, stop at the temple built in honor of the great martyr Saint Hripsime. This is a true architectural masterpiece.
Noravank's buildings are made of the same stone as the surrounding rocks
8. Find the monastery among the rocks
The monastic complex of Noravank is located 112 km from the city, but the road to it is so picturesque that it does not seem tiresome. In addition, it is worth making a couple of stops to explore the Areni caves and buy fresh lavash from the village bakery. Noravank itself is the same yellow-red color as the rocks, gorges surrounding it, because it was built of stone that was mined in the neighborhood. In the XIII-XIV centuries, Noravank was the residence of the Orbelian princes. There are two churches, a chapel and khachkars of rare beauty. And the church of Surb-Karapet is decorated with a bas-relief depicting the face of God the Father, which you can hardly see anywhere.
9. Take the carpet home
Every weekend, the section of the boulevard from the metro station "Republic Square" to Khanjyan Street turns into a big fair or, as the people of Yerevan say, a vernissage. Here you can find an unprecedented variety of things: antiques of varying degrees of value, antique carpets, silver, designer ceramics, dishes, national musical instruments, onyx vases - the list is endless. Nearby are rows of artists and second-hand booksellers. At the opening day, of course, it is customary to bargain, moreover, it is fun and with pleasure. There are also plenty of souvenir shops in the center of Yerevan. The most pleasant, called "Agsak" (Abovyan, 3/1), literally bursting with high-quality ceramics, silver, graphics, bronze copies of archaeological finds and other treasures. Books, albums, posters and CDs with ancient and modern Armenian music are sold in the Artbridge Bookstore Café (Abovyan, 20).
At the vernissage in the center of Yerevan - souvenirs for every taste and color
10. Take a dip in the overturned sky
Lake Sevan lies so high in the mountains that when you stand on its shore it seems that the water surface is about to touch the heavens. Pure fresh water warms up only by the middle of summer, so coming here on a hot day is salvation and joy. Around the lake, which the locals call nothing other than the sea, there are solid mountains, and the water hourly changes color from azure to turquoise and dark blue. It is good to spend a whole day here, go to the peninsula and explore the Sevanavank monastery complex, built in 874. If you find yourself on west bank, don't miss another wonderful monastery - Hayravank. Take with you except sunscreen something warm: no matter how hot it is during the day, a cool wind always blows in Sevan in the evenings.
According to legend, stars and gods drank from the high-mountainous lake Sevan
11. Visit the first museum of contemporary art of the USSR
Now it is difficult to imagine, but the opening of the Museum of Modern Art in Yerevan in 1972 was for Soviet Union an unprecedented phenomenon: the building itself, as if raised above the ground, seemed unusual, not to mention the contents. Before the collapse of the country, the museum was still one of a kind. In general, Armenia has a strong pictorial tradition, and here it is easy to be convinced of the diversity of its currents. Now the museum has about 2300 exhibits, including a collection of works by Armenian artists: Minas Avetisyan, Yervand Kochar, Rudolf Khachatryan, Garzu, Gayane Khachaturian ... Exhibitions of young artists are regularly held.
12. Explore the history of the Eternal City
This year Yerevan turns 2,795 years old, which makes it 30 years older than Rome. From the point of view of eternity, this is not such a big difference, but still nice. The beginning of the city was laid by the Erebuni fortress, built on a hill with the same name in 782 BC. e. king Argishti, the ruler of the ancient state of Urartu. As evidenced by the plate with the text written in Urartian cuneiform, all Armenian children teach it at school. Now at the foot of the hill there is a beautiful museum with archaeological finds. Climbing the stairs up the hill, you will get to the excavations themselves, begun by the expedition of Academician B. B. Piotrovsky.
The museum "Erebuni" exhibited items from the times of the state of Urartu
13. Listen to the duduk in his homeland
Probably no other musical instrument is so firmly connected with the self-identification of the Armenian people as the modest-looking duduk. Made of apricot wood (this is another national symbol!), It has an extraordinary sound - soft, heartfelt, almost unbearably aching. For many years this music was listened to only in their native land. She was accompanied by all significant events in people's lives: birth, baptism, weddings, funerals. But thanks to the genius performer Jivan Gasparyan, duduk has entered the musical mainstream over the past 20 years. Now the primordial Armenian instrument can be heard in Hollywood cinema, and sometimes quite unexpectedly, as, for example, in the film Onegin. And if you're lucky and your trip coincides with Gasparyan's concert, be sure to buy your tickets in advance - you can't miss it.
14. Drink the most delicious water in the world
It is not difficult to make sure that this is the pure truth - it is enough to drink from the stone fountains placed throughout the city. Which are called "pulpulak" - by analogy with the sound made by a babbling source. Here, in general, a special attitude towards water is perceived as the most valuable gift of nature. In ancient times, it was in short supply and sellers with jugs walked around the city: a monument to such a peddling boy stands in one of the city parks. And in the middle of summer, the Vardavar holiday is celebrated in Yerevan, when everyone is supposed to pour water on everyone. Do not be offended by the jokers - it is better to douse them in response.
Fountains in the central square of the Republic
15. Go down into the gorge right within the city limits
Yerevan is one of the few cities that has its own gorge, and of a rather impressive scale. It is called Hrazdan in honor of the river that flows there. Once it was a completely untouched and very picturesque corner, where there was nothing but fruit trees and a Children's railroad... The residents of Yerevan had picnics here, chilling watermelons and mineral water right in the river. Now this is not the case: in the evenings life is in full swing in the gorge - a record number of restaurants, cafes and hotels have been built here. But due to its size, there is always a place for those who just want to take a walk. For example, to the Yerevan Brandy Factory above the gorge, where the famous "Ararat" is produced (avenue Tsovakal Isakovi, 2)- since 1998, after the purchase of the plant by the Pernod-Ricard concern, it is called not cognac, but brandy, but this has not changed the essence.
16. Climb to the top of the Cascade
Right behind the Opera and Ballet Theater, between Baghramyan and Mashtots avenues, there is a square called Cascade. There is a monument to the architect Alexander Tamanyan, the founding father of modern Yerevan, who bowed down to the general plan of the city. And behind it is a park with a collection of sculptures from all over the world, several cafes and a long staircase leading high up the hill where the main observation deck cities. On the way up there are five tiers, each one - museums, galleries, fountains and flowering flower beds. The cascade is one of the favorite places of Yerevan residents; something is always happening here. When concerts are held, the audience sits right on the steps. If you're lucky, you will witness a funny flash mob, when all those gathered together dance folk dances - where else in the world can you see such a thing ?!
The lower tier of the Cascade, where Yerevan residents are usually robbed
17. Sit on a bench next to Frunzik Mkrtchyan
Unusual sculptures were brought to Yerevan from all over the world, such as the famous fat men Fernando Botero. But there are also purely Armenian ones among them. You already know about the water seller, his brothers are the characters of the cult film "Men" and the backgammon player immortalized in bronze, without whom not a single Yerevan courtyard can do. In addition, benches with celebrities sitting on them are set up around the city. For example, at the "Moscow" cinema you can join everyone's favorite Frunze Mkrtchyan. But, perhaps, the most touching is the monument to Karabala on Teryan Street. This strange man in rags went out into the streets of post-war Yerevan every day with a bouquet of roses and gave a flower to passing girls and couples in love. Nobody shunned the eccentric and did not offend - on the contrary, everyone loved him. And in 1991 a monument was erected to Karabala, because thanks to such people the spirit of the city is formed.
18. Take a ride on the cable car
The Tatev monastery complex is quite far from Yerevan, so a day trip is not enough. But if you have time, be sure to arrange this journey for yourself - it will be remembered for a lifetime. You will go to the south of Armenia, to its most beautiful part of Zangezur, through continuous mountains, alpine meadows and waterfalls. The Tatev monastery itself, built in the 10th century, seems to grow out of a giant cliff right on the edge of the cliff - Armenian medieval architects knew how to inscribe their creations into the landscape. Previously, a serpentine led to it, but now you can climb the cable car, which is unique in its length, going through the picturesque Vorotan Gorge - this is where it takes your breath away. Cable car- part of a large project to revive Tatev, and in the future there will be a hotel complex here. In the meantime, spend the night in the charming town of Goris, which is 30 km from the monastery. For example, at the Mirhav hotel (Mashtots, 100).
A cable car, unique in length, leads to the Tatev Monastery
19. Marvel at the brightness of medieval miniatures
20. Look into the temple built with Nero's money
According to historical sources, the Armenian king Trdat I built the Garni temple in the 1st century with the money he received after a trip to Rome to the emperor Nero. This is the only one on the territory the former USSR a sample of Hellenistic architecture stood in ruins for a long time until it was restored in 1976. And then the little Parthenon with 24 columns and bas-reliefs appeared before everyone. Nearby - excavations of the summer residence of the Armenian kings with chambers, baths and mosaics. Garni is spectacularly located on the edge of a huge gorge with an extraordinary view of the steep slopes and mountain river Azat. If you are by car, go down the gorge and look at the basalt columns rising to the sky, hanging in clusters just above the road. And one more thing: halfway to Garni, stop at the Charents Arch. From the hill where it was built, a postcard view of Ararat opens, and the arch serves as a frame for it.
21. Rate the calculation of ancient engineers
Garni is usually combined in one trip with the Geghard monastery complex. But this is where their closeness ends. Founded in the IV century, Geghard was a place of pilgrimage because of the relic stored in it - a spear (now in the Echmiadzin Museum), which pierced Jesus crucified on the cross. It is also notable for the fact that part of it is carved inside the rock adjacent to the main temple and decorated with khachkars carved in it. The premises inside - the main church, chapel, burial room, etc. - are decorated with amazingly expressive reliefs. Particularly impressive is the sacristy, with four columns supporting a vaulted stalactite dome with a round opening that lets a piercing beam of light into the dungeon. It is impossible to understand how it was possible to calculate and implement such a complex project without a single mistake. But the fact remains.
22. Listen to jazz
High-quality live music is only at first glance an unexpected attribute of the city. They have always loved and knew how to play jazz - in Soviet times it was an expression of inner freedom. In the legendary cafe "Poplavok" (Isahakyan, 41) famous musician Levon Malkhasyan performed, around whom other performers gradually began to gather. Subsequently, he opened his own jazz club "Malkhas" (Pushkin, 52/1), where wonderful concerts are held in the evenings, to which the whole city comes. Another club - Mezzo Classic House Club (Isahakyan, 28)... If you don't mind listening to a real concert, check out the poster of the Cafesjyan Center for Contemporary Art - it is located on the last tier of the Cascade (an escalator leads there).
23. Wander around the city at night
One of the unchanging Yerevan traditions is an evening walk. Here they meet acquaintances, find out the latest news. It is especially crowded near the building of the Armenian Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, which the locals call simply "Opera". All around there are open cafes, there is a pretty pond and a large playground, convenient for games and rollerblading. In the evenings, it is so lively here that tourists often think that they are on a holiday. After sunset, a lot of people visit the pedestrian Northern Avenue, Mesrop Mashtots Avenue, Abovyan and Sayat-Nova streets, and what is there - in the whole center. So feel free to walk until late at night - the brightly lit streets of Yerevan are completely safe and the atmosphere on them is the most friendly. In addition, Russians are not only treated well here - they are sincerely loved.
