Journey to the heart of Armenian humor and cultureOur journey begins with a two-hour drive from Yerevan to Gyumri. On the way you will learn about the history and culture of Armenia, which will prepare you to meet the unique flavor of this city.
Walk through the historical center of GyumriArriving in Gyumri, we will go to Vardanants Square, the central place of the city, surrounded by buildings with rich history. Here you will see the Church of the Holy Mother of God, known as the “Seven Arrows” Church, which houses an icon said to have been painted by the Evangelist Luke. We will also visit the building “Good Morning”, which got its name due to the element of ornamentation resembling a mirror with a towel. We will pay special attention to the Kostanov bathhouse, a unique combination of Eastern and Western architecture, and Villa Kars, the only house in the city built entirely in Art Nouveau style.
The first pedestrian street of the USSR and architectural gemsWe will walk along the first pedestrian street in the USSR, one of the first in Europe, and admire St. Savior's Church - a symbol of Gyumri's boast. You will learn why exactly it is called so and what stories are hidden behind its walls.
Black Fortress and Hill of Honor: Evidence of HistoryWe'll visit the Black Fortress, built in 1837 and which played an important role in the city's history. We will finish the tour at the Hill of Honor, where Russian soldiers and officers who died in the Russo-Turkish wars are buried and where the Chapel of the Holy Archistratigus Michael is located.
Organizational details:- Recommended for children ages 10 and up.
- Time is provided for lunch (optional at a local cafe).
- There will be a lot of walking in Gyumri, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Meeting point:- Start of the tour at the Republic Square in Yerevan.