Top 5 Unusual Tourist Spots in Yerevan
Yerevan, one of the oldest cities in the world, will be of interest to all lovers of historical architecture and contemporary art. This multifaceted place will immerse you in Armenian culture and introduce you to its openness and friendliness. Puzzle Trip has compiled a list of the top unusual tourist spots in Yerevan, which even not all residents of the capital have been to.
1. Erebuni Fortress and Museum
The Erebuni Fortress was founded on the Arin-Berd hill in 782 BC. Archaeologists found it only in the middle of the 20th century. After excavations, it turned out that Yerevan began here, which is actually more than 2800 years old.
Today, the Erebuni Museum is open at the foot of Arin-Berd, where exhibits found during excavations are kept. The main exhibit of the museum is 23 cuneiform tablets created more than two thousand years ago.
Location: Yerevan, Erebuni Street, 38
2. Art Quarter
Today, the Art Quarter gathers artists and all art lovers. There is a gallery, an art school, shops with art supplies, exhibitions of artists and other craftsmen. The creators themselves also live in the Art Quarter. In total, about 30 artists live here who exhibit their work.
Location: Yerevan, Pushkin Street, 6
3. Kond District
The first mention of the district dates back to the 15th century, but historians distinguish the ancient period of this place, starting from the 2nd century. At that time, an Armenian cemetery was operating here.
Most of the ancient buildings were destroyed in 1679 due to an earthquake. After the natural disaster, the buildings began to be restored. For example, in 1710, the Surb Hovhannes Mkrtich Church, which was built in 670, was completely rebuilt and can be visited now. Many historical frescoes and street art can be seen on residential buildings today.
Location: Yerevan, Kentron administrative district, between Paronyan, Leo, Saryan and Frika streets.
4. Levon’s Magic Cave
The history of this cave has become truly “magical”. In 1985, ambulance driver Levon Arakeljan began digging a cellar for storing wine and pickles at the request of his wife. He was very carried away by the process of dismantling stones, and the basement turned into a large underground labyrinth 21 meters deep. Without a construction education, he created a ventilation system and conducted light here, made bas-reliefs. After her husband’s death, his wife created a museum from this underground with Levon’s tools and photographs.
Location: Arinj village (8 km from Yerevan), David Khachatryan street, 9
5. Lusik Agutseli House-Museum
The artist Lusik Agutseli loved traditional Armenian clothes very much, so she collected outfits from all over the country only at home and wore them. Because of this, she was called “that strange woman.” Lusik herself created Armenian belts, jewelry and carpets with characteristic patterns.
Today, the artist’s house has been turned into a museum, where her clothes and other hand-made items are exhibited. Dances and concerts are also held here, guests are treated to national food.
Location: Yerevan, Muradzan Street, 79
Armenia is a country with an amazing ancient history, which will be revealed to travellers from a hospitable and friendly side. Learn about the routes to Yerevan and travel with Puzzle Trip!