Armenia is a country that may not be at the top of the list of destinations you planned to reach in your lifetime, but after you see what its capital has to offer, you may revise that list. Armenia is not a Muslim country as many believe, in fact 90% of its population is Christian and befitting a "bridge" between the continent of Europe and Asia, it is a wonderful place with magnificent landscapes that will surprise you as soon as you see them. Today, however, we will concentrate on the capital - Yerevan - which combines the old and the new, where, alongside the modern construction, there are also evidences of the Soviet presence that existed there until the early 1990s. So let's go on a journey in the capital of Armenia, Yerevan, and show you what you should see and do there.
The Cascade of Yerevan is one of the most spectacular tourist sites in the city, when its construction was completed in the early 80's, and it has more than 500 steps, climbing them will take you up 5 levels. If you are smart (or lazy), you can go up in the elevator and go down the stairs, and you should also go inside the building to see the collection of contemporary and historical art inside. Whether you chose to go up the stairs or the elevator, from the top you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city, which is probably the most beautiful sight you will see in the area
Inside the Matenadaran Museum you can tour and be exposed to hundreds and thousands of ancient writings that unfold the historical story of Armenia. These writings show not only the history of the country, but even the history of the development of early Christianity, but what will impress you the most are the largest Armenian book and the smallest Armenian book displayed there. It may not sound like a lot when we write about it here, but pay attention - the small one was written in the 14th century and weighs a total of 19 grams, and the large one, on the other hand, is from the 13th century, and weighs almost 28 kg! You will also find there the oldest leather-bound book in the world, written in the fifth century AD
Republic Square is the beating heart of the city, and it's worth coming to it even just to walk around and soak up the atmosphere. There are the first and second Government Houses, and also the House of Museums, where the National Gallery of Armenia and the Museum of Armenian History are located, where you can see the oldest shoe in the world, which is about 3,500 years old. There is also a huge musical fountain and a tap with 7 taps, which is known as "Pulpolak" and was installed in 1965. It is recommended to see the impressive trade union and media building there, as well as the Marriott Hotel, which is considered the flagship hotel of Armenia.
4. Katoghike Church, or "Church of the Holy Mother of God"
This hidden gem is a place of peace and tranquility within the bustling city, and it is highly recommended to linger on each of its beautiful and special contours. You can go inside and also admire the interior space, which amazes everyone who discovers that this church has been standing proudly in that location for over 800 years, years full of wars and earthquakes. The building was even slated for demolition in the 30s of the 20th century, but archaeologists strongly opposed it and thanks to their protests it was saved.
The alcohol lovers among you are encouraged to go to the Ararat brandy factory, where you can raise a glass of brandy in an atmosphere of Armenian hospitality and get to know the local population up close. Each tasting will take you on a complete journey through the history and tradition of making brandy in Armenia, when you will learn how the drink is made, and this is a very authentic experience that you shouldn't miss
6. Watching the view of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap Monastery
We already mentioned that in Bexcade you will be exposed to the most beautiful view in the city, but outside of it there is a place where you can be exposed to an even more impressive view. At the Hor Virap monastery, which is close to the border with Turkey, you can see Mount Ararat at its peak. The monastery, which is an hour's drive from the city, is the closest point to Mount Ararat, and is built in the form of a square courtyard surrounded by a wall with buildings and watchtowers. It is one of the holiest sites for Armenians, and is even considered a pilgrimage site. When you're there, don't forget to witness the 6-meter-deep pit, which according to tradition was the prison where St. George, the most important saint in Orthodox Christianity, was imprisoned.
7. The Geghard Monastery
This is another place that is outside the city limits - 30 km from Yerevan - and it is highly recommended to come here to witness the structure, which is partly carved out of the rock. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is still considered an important destination for pilgrims, but there are very few monks there. On the way there you will come across bakeries on the side of the road, where you can buy gata - an Armenian pastry that is a kind of combination of sweet bread and cake - worth tasting
This station is one of the most surprising you will come to, as it is also about 30 km from Yerevan, but this time it is not a Christian site, but an ancient pagan temple built at some point during the first century AD. It was a place dedicated to the sun god Mihar, and is built on a cliff high above the picturesque canyon of the Azat River. In the temple there is a stone tablet with a cuneiform inscription that tells about the conquest of the area by King Orerto in 800 BC, and from time to time musical performances are held here, from classical music performances to electronic music performances
9. Paying tribute at the Armenian Genocide Museum - Tsitsernakaberd
The Armenian people went through a horrific tragedy and slaughter during the Ottoman Empire and by the Turkish government. The museum dedicated to documenting this genocide is located on a hill overlooking Yerevan, and has very impressive monuments, as well as a commemorative wall. If you have time, it is recommended to go there and expose yourself to a part of the history of the Armenian people that not everyone is aware of, but it is an important part of their story.
