A Complete Guide to Yerevan – Everything You Need to Know

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is an ancient and bustling city located in the South Caucasus region. It is the largest city in Armenia, with a population of 1.2 million and a metropolitan population of around 2 million people. The city was founded in 782 BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Yerevan has a rich, diverse culture and heritage and a fascinating history. Here we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about Yerevan and what there is to experience in the city.

History of Yerevan

The city of Yerevan dates back to 782 BC, when it was founded as Erebuni, a city-state of the Urartian Kingdom. In the ancient period, Yerevan was a major center of Armenian culture and civilization. It was conquered by various powers throughout its history including the Assyrians, Romans, Georgia, Turks, and Persians and saw numerous invasions and battles. In 1828, Yerevan became part of the Russian Empire after the Russo-Persian War. In 1918 Armenia declared independence and since then Yerevan has been its capital city. The city has grown and evolved over the years and is now a modern, vibrant center of culture and commerce.

The Architecture of Yerevan

Yerevan is an architectural gem, boasting a mix of styles from both East and West. Some of Yerevan’s most recognizable landmarks are its Soviet-era buildings, which have an interesting mix of styles influenced by both Russian Constructivism and traditional Armenian designs. The heart of the city is dominated by an impressive collection of large dome-shaped buildings, including the Republic Square, one of Yerevan’s most iconic sites. The city also has several beautiful old churches, such as St. Gregoire Church, a spectacular neo-classical structure built in 1848. Other notable architectural sites in Yerevan include the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, the Sargis Ambartsumyan Museum of Modern Art, and Cascade Square.

Culture and Cuisine

Yerevan has a vibrant cultural life that draws on both traditional Armenian culture and more contemporary elements. The city has numerous theaters, art galleries, music venues, and other sites that play host to events and festivals throughout the year. Music is particularly important to Yerevan’s culture; there are numerous jazz cafés and clubs where you can hear traditional Armenian folk music as well as international jazz and pop acts.

Yerevan also offers a wide range of interesting culinary experiences. Traditional Armenian cuisine is popular in Yerevan, with dishes such as spiced meats, cheese-filled dumplings, and thick yogurt-based soups making up part of the local diet. The city also offers international cuisine from all around the world—especially popular are Indian, Turkish, Chinese and Georgian restaurants.

What to See and Do

There’s plenty to see and do in Yerevan. One of the city’s most popular attractions is Yerevan Opera House, where you can catch performances by the Armenian National Opera Company. Other popular cultural spots include History Museum of Armenia, which exhibits artifacts from various periods in Armenian history, and the State Museum of Armenia which features a fascinating array of Armenian art.

Nature lovers will love exploring the city’s many parks, including Lovers’ Park which features stunning mountain views as well as ponds perfect for fishing or boating. For a taste of ancient Armenian history, be sure to visit Erebuni Fortress or Khor Virap monastery which boasts a breathtaking view of Mt Ararat.

If you’re looking for a bit of western-style nightlife, Yerevan also has plenty to offer: The city boasts a number of pubs, nightclubs, and live music venues offering everything from international DJs to traditional Armenian folk music.

Getting Around

Getting around Yerevan is relatively easy—it’s served by an efficient public transport system that includes buses, trolleybuses, mini buses (marshrutka) and taxis (taxametre). The city also has a reliable metro system with over 40 stations, making it easy to get around quickly.

For more information about travelling to Armenia’s gorgeous capital be sure to check out this informative video which offers plenty of useful insights about visiting Yerevan.

A Local’s Guide to experiencing Yerevan

As Armenia’s capital city, Yerevan is filled with fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes and distinct cultural beauty. While there are certainly plenty of mainstream tourist destinations, locals know some secret spots that are worth exploring. Here’s a comprehensive guide to experiencing Yerevan that will help you engage with the local traditions and culture:

Local Attractions

The oldest and the most beautiful district of Yerevan is considered to be Kond. It holds within it a slice of ancient Armenian history as well as beautiful architecture. The narrow streets, the courtyards with carved wooden doors, and the cafes made in Soviet time buildings, make it a unique blend of history and modern urban living. Cascade Complex, which is a series of massive staircases and outdoor terraces, is another hidden gem in Yerevan. It’s also a cultural spot; the Cafesjian Center for the Arts located here is a museum featuring contemporary art.

Dining Spots

Armenian cuisine is famous all over the world for its unique taste, and experiencing it in the city of Yerevan is a must. Traditional restaurants like Dolmama, with its interiors built with ancient household materials, and Ankyun, will make dining not just about food, but about soaking up history. While visiting the city market (Shuka), do try some lavash, a traditional flatbread which is cooked on an open fire under hot platestones. Khorovats, the Armenian equivalent to barbeque, is a must-try as well. It’s unique and delicious and is cooked on open-air grills and served with fresh vegetables.

Cultural Experiences

Yerevan boasts a lively cultural scene with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Around the end of September, the city holds the traditional Wine Festival in Saryan Park. The Harvest Festival, organized in October, involves farmers from around the Yerevan region showcasing their produce along with cultural activities like folk dancing and haunted houses. The Vernissage Market, held on weekends, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. It features a variety of local artwork, jewelry, and handmade goods.

Local History

To appreciate the local history of Yerevan, one has to stroll through the streets of the city center. While exploring the city, make sure to visit the Republic Square with its grand fountain, designed in 1950. Another must-visit is the ruined fortress of Erebuni, from which the city took its name. Constructed in 782 BC, it’s a rare survival from the region’s ancient past. It is located on the outskirts of the city and provides a stunning view of Mount Ararat and the surrounding area.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something unique, take a taxi to the outskirts of the city to find the abandoned Soviet-era control tower at Yerevan’s old airport. It offers a spectacular view of Mount Ararat and the surrounding countryside. Or take a trip to Lake Sevan, a deep blue mountain lake, in the Gegharkunik province. It’s a fantastic place for swimming and picnicking, and the view of the surrounding countryside is breathtaking.

No matter where you go in Yerevan, there’s always something exciting to explore. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and experience the city through the lens of a local.