What is Armenia famous for briefly? What to bring from Yerevan. Handbags, wallets, tablecloths in national style

The Republic of Armenia is a state in Transcaucasia. Without its own access to the sea, it borders with Azerbaijan and NKR, Iran, Turkey and Georgia. The country is home to about 3 million people. The capital of the state is the city of Yerevan. It is an agricultural and industrial country where about 95% of the population professes Christianity.

Geographical data

Armenia is located at the foot of the Lesser Caucasus ridge (north and east). Almost the entire territory is mountainous. About 90% of the land is located above 1000 meters above sea level. The highest point of the state is Mount Aragats - 4095 meters. Until 1921 it was Mount Ararat, which now belongs to Turkey. Nevertheless, it is she who is the symbol of the country and the main attraction.

Ararat

The mountain in Armenia is located in the western part of the country and is still considered holy by local residents. According to legend, it was to this mountain that Noah landed on his ark. Armenians call them brothers Sis and Masis.

The mountain itself is located on the right bank of the Araks River on the border with Turkey and has two fused cones:

Greater Ararat (Western) with a height of 5156 meters.
or Eastern, with a height of 3925 meters.

According to scientists' estimates, age Western Mountain is approximately 3.5 million years old, and Malaya is only 150 thousand. This former volcanoes. Vertex Big Mountain always covered with snow and visible from anywhere in the capital. There are about 30 small glaciers on it. The largest is named St. James and is more than 2 kilometers long. This is one of the most visited attractions in Armenia. However, this was the case until 2015. Today, climbing the mountain is prohibited due to the unstable situation in the southeast of the neighboring state - Turkey.

Yerevan

This city is not only the capital of Armenia, but also the largest populated area in the country. Founded back in 782 BC. Located on the left bank during the USSR period, the appearance of the city changed greatly, but still many architectural monuments remained on its territory.

In honor of friendship between the Iranians and in 1766, it was erected Blue Mosque in Yerevan. The Muslim cathedral was built on the instructions of the Turkic khan and the governor of the city - Huseynali Khan Qajar. Today it is the only functioning Muslim shrine in the country.

The temple is also called the Heavenly Mosque. Previously, it had 4 minarets, but only one has survived to this day. The height of the minaret is 24 meters. The temple has 28 pavilions. In the northern part there is a library where Persian language classes are held, and a small exhibition hall. In the southern part there is a dome and the main hall.

The decoration of the temple and the dome itself is made of faience tiles with majolica. And in the courtyard of the mosque there grows a huge mulberry tree, in the shade of which the poet Yeghishe Charentsu drank tea. There is a legend that thanks to him the temple was not destroyed in the First World War, since the poet insisted on setting up an ammunition depot here.

The temple is located on Mesrop Mashtots Avenue, 10, the nearest metro station is Zoravar Andranik.

In honor of the victory over the German conquerors

The most famous and visited place in the capital is the Mother Armenia monument. It was erected in honor of the victory of the USSR in the Great Patriotic War. The height of the monument is 54 meters, the statue itself is 22 meters high. There are samples of weapons installed around the monument and an eternal flame burns. There is a monument in Victory Park, in the central part of the city. At its foot is the Museum of the Ministry of Defense. Here you can see weapons, personal belongings and documents of soldiers who participated in the Great Patriotic War and the Karabakh War.

Address complex: Azatutyun street, 2, Victory Park.

Matenadaran

As the ancient wisdom says: “The number of languages you know, the number of times you are human.” Another attraction of Armenia is the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Manuscripts named after St. Mesrop Mashtots.

This is one of the largest repositories of ancient manuscripts in the world. The institute has a museum where you can see unique and rare manuscripts. The fund contains about 120 thousand manuscripts from different times. These are not only written in Armenian, but also in Hebrew, Persian, Japanese and Latin. The most important treasure of the museum is the first Armenian manuscript, which dates back to 917.

The museum is located at: Mesrop Mashtots Avenue, 53. The nearest metro stations are “Yeritasardakan” and “Marshal Baghramyan”.

Cascade

Not a single excursion around Armenia is complete without visiting this unique architectural creation - the Cascade. This is a whole complex consisting of:

sculptures;
fountains;
stairs;
flower beds.

It is located on the slopes of the Kanaker Hills. The staircase itself is made of milky tuff and connects two parts of the city - lower and upper. The Cascade is located behind the Opera and Ballet Theater.

Church of the Holy Mother of God Zoravor

This is one of the oldest attractions in Armenia. This current Armenian Apostolic Church was founded back in 1693. The temple was rebuilt several times, the “latest version” was built with donations from townspeople. In 1793, the church was reconstructed, which is confirmed by the corresponding inscriptions on the building. This is a domeless three-aisle church. The main altar is located in the eastern part of the vestibule. The interior here is austere, with khachkars carved on the walls. In 1889, a new chapel was erected near the northwestern part and named after St. Ananias. The last reconstruction of the temple was carried out in the 1970s. The walls and roof were restored, brought into proper condition and handed over to the believers.

What else to see in Yerevan?

Most excursions in Armenia include a visit to the Tsitsernakaberd hill, where the eponymous hill is located. memorial Complex. It is dedicated to the victims of the Armenian genocide, which took place in 1915. Built in 1967. This is a 44-meter-high stele with a fracture along its entire length, symbolizing the split of the Armenian people. Near the stele there is an eternal flame in a cone with twelve stone slabs. There is also a museum of Armenia dedicated to this tragic event.

Naturally, you need to go to the museum. This man never lived in Armenia, but he dedicated all his work to the homeland of his ancestors. The complex was opened in 1991. This is the Tiflis house, where there are the director’s personal belongings and about 600 works by Parajanov: collages, ceramics and drawings. The museum is located on Dzoragyukh street, 15/16.

Armenia is famous not only for its architectural monuments. The country has magnificent nature; 230 zones are protected by law. These are natural objects, different in morphological and age characteristics. In the river valleys there are new natural monuments that appeared after the extinction of volcanoes. High mountain lakes and unique landscapes, mountain formations and man-made creations - you will find all this in Armenia.

In the city of Sisian there is a “place of power”. The mysterious monument, left over from our ancestors, consists of 223 stones laid out vertically in a circle. Each stone weighs about 10 tons, and some have holes in them. Jewelry and swords were found under one of the stones, leading scientists to believe that this is a cemetery.

In general, there is a lot of controversy about this object. Some believe that this is an observatory, others put forward the version that this is a place of worship of the Sun God. Many versions have been put forward regarding the date of construction - from 5 to 7 thousand years. But this place is definitely older than Stonehenge. The facility is located at an altitude of 200 meters above sea level, in the city of Sistan, 200 kilometers from Yerevan.

This natural reservoir is located at an altitude of 1900 meters above sea level, eight kilometers from the city of Gavar. This is the richest lake in fish, trout and crucian carp from which appear on the tables of almost all Armenians. On the banks of the reservoir there is a lake of the same name. national park, where many seagulls live.

In the village of Noratus, on the shore of the lake, there is an ancient cemetery. Excavations confirmed the version that people were buried here 2 thousand years ago.

There are many architectural monuments on the shores of the lake. These are the monasteries of Kotavank, Sevanavank and Vanevan, built in different centuries.

Satan's Bridge

Between the villages of Halidzor and Tatev there is a unique natural attraction of Armenia - Satani Kamudj. This is a bridge natural origin across the Vorotan River. On the river itself near this bridge you will see several the most beautiful waterfalls with niches and small caves where there are stalactites and mineral springs.

Northern Armenia

In this part of the country there is Dilijan National Park. It was created relatively recently with the aim of preserving oak and beech groves and natural landscapes. There are many relict plants in the reserve that have been preserved since the Ice Age.

And along the Getik River grows the largest yew grove in all of Transcaucasia. There are also endangered species of vegetation in the park: blue cyanosis and cuckoo tears. Deer, squirrels, bears and roe deer live here. There are about 120 species of birds. In the reserve, in almost all gorges there are small rivers or lakes, as well as mineral springs. Particularly popular are the Haghartsin Gorge and Lake Parshch. There are several monastery complexes in the park: Haghartsin, Dzhukhtakvank and Matosavank.

Basalt organ

Near the Garni Temple in the canyon of the Ashchat River there is a unique natural monument. The basalt mountain seems to have been carved by a skilled craftsman - these are hexagons reminiscent of organ pipes.

This is the highest waterfall in Armenia, its height is 70 meters. It is located in the Aragatsotn region on the Kasakh river. The bed of the waterfall itself is in volcanic rock. This is a magnificent sight that will take your breath away. Grottoes and caves can be seen behind the flow of water.

If possible, you should definitely visit Armenia - it has magnificent nature and many attractions, ornate toasts and delicious national dishes.

Since ancient times, the Caucasus has been attractive to travelers. Climbers strived for high mountain peaks, and skiers plowed the snow-covered winding trails. The ubiquitous tourists wandered along the paths, trying to visit not only the most famous memorable places, but also to remain alone with nature, joining the secrets of the unexplored corners of ancient Armenia.

This country will not leave anyone indifferent; it is a real paradise for travel lovers. Everyone will remember something special. For some it is the sun and ripe aromatic fruits, others will remember the cordiality and traditional hospitality of the local residents, others will love the unique Armenian cognac and delicious national cuisine.

In this article we will not write about banal souvenirs such as magnets and I Armenia T-shirts, but we will tell you about really worthwhile things that can and should be brought from this country.

Food

Armenia is a fertile country for lovers of gastronomic shopping. Here you can find anything, taking into account your taste and budget. Sweets and local delicacies will surprise you with their variety and special taste.

“Nur” in Armenian means pomegranate. But for Armenians it is not just an ordinary plant, but a national symbol of the state. Since ancient times, this fruit has been considered a royal berry due to the shape of the top of the fruit, which is similar to a crown. For Armenians, pomegranate is a sign of prosperity, fertility, freedom and sun. Its veneration can be judged from Armenian manuscripts and stone carvings, where the image of the plant was used as a popular ornament. Until now, pomegranate is popular in the culture and art of Armenia, essentially turning into a folk cliche.

By the way, if local sellers tell you that there are exactly 365 seeds in an Armenian pomegranate, then don’t believe them. Host of the program “Heads and Tails. Shopping” Egor Kaleinikov, being at one of the Yerevan markets, and there were many more of them.

Churchkhela

Almost everywhere in Armenia this tasty delicacy is called sweet sudzhuk, or sharots, in some border areas - churchkhel. Outwardly, it looks like sausages of different colors, but it does not consist of meat, but of fruit, usually grape, juice and nuts. Unlike the Georgian churchkhela, cinnamon, cardamom and cloves are added to the Armenian counterpart, and its shell is more tasty and tender.

Dried fruits

Armenia - southern country, and here nature has created many favorable conditions for growing fruits and vegetables. Abundant sunshine, many rivers and a good climate are ideal for the growth of plums, pears, apples, peaches and apricots. Armenian fruits are in many ways more attractive in appearance and tastier than those grown in other countries. The production of dried fruits has traditionally been carried out here for many centuries, and these products have long earned trust due to their best quality. The demand for dried fruits is high both in the country itself and far beyond its borders.

Jam

Fresh berries, vegetables and fruits are grown in abundance in Armenia. Armenians can make amazingly tasty jams from almost everything that grows here. These are quince, plum and dogwood jams that are popular everywhere, more outlandish ones made from figs, rose petals, white mulberries, pumpkins, walnuts and, which is completely impossible to imagine, eggplants. For this sample, young vegetables are selected; when cooked, they become hard like marshmallow on the outside and soft, tender, like jelly, oozing with sweet syrup from the inside.

Honey

Produced at an altitude of more than 2000 meters above sea level, in ecologically clean grassy and flower-bearing meadows and clearings, thick Armenian honey surpasses the Argentine and Chinese types of beekeeping products that are considered the best in terms of the content of vitamins and biologically active substances beneficial to the body. More than two hundred thousand hives produce about 17 tons of honey per year.

All over the world, “elven honey” is recognized as the most valuable, mined in a cave at a depth of about 1900 meters, which is very expensive - about 5000 €. According to buyers of this product, it is no better than the Armenian one, the price of which is $8-10 per kilogram.

Spices and herbs

Many tourists try to bring Armenian aromatic seasonings for cooking fish and meat. Applicable in local national cuisine, they are very diverse. But the main ones: fresh and allspice, ground black or peas, hot capsicum and hot red - create the unsurpassed taste inherent in Armenian dishes. Cumin and tarragon, saffron and rosemary, chaman, mint and many other spices are offered in city markets and stalls along the roads.

Spicy herbs are widely used in Armenian cuisine, sometimes they are simply sorted, washed and served, but often processed in various ways and added to soups, salads, sauces and pies fillings. Cilantro, watercress, savory, cherry, tarragon, alayazi, okra - a small list of plants that can be brought from Armenia.

Herb tea

If you stay with an Armenian family during your vacation, you will definitely be offered herbal tea. The country is simultaneously in three climatic zones. Due to its geographical location, natural features and mountainous terrain, the flora of Armenia is incredibly rich, numbering about 4,000 plant species, 120 of which are unique, growing only in this country. More than 1,400 species are considered medicinal and are used as remedies for diseases of various body systems.

Cheeses

The national product, without which every feast in Armenia cannot but begin and end, is cheese. The simplest one is zhazhik, with the addition of herbs and spices, prepared from fermented milk matsun, which is hung in a cloth bag to drain excess moisture. Goat and sheep - wineskin cheeses - are ripened in wineskins - bags made of animal skins. Armenians are not just cheese lovers, but also some of the best producers. By correctly selecting bacterial starters, these cooks obtain a product with a pronounced smell and taste.

Since ancient times, the most popular in Armenia and throughout the Caucasus has been the pickled cheese Chanakh; it is made from cow's milk in special devices called chanakh. This is where its name came from. Often the brine is supplemented with honey, white wine or syrup. The product is aged for about 2 months.

Lori is a cheese made from a mixture of cow and buffalo milk. The name comes from the area where it was first prepared; ripening occurs for one and a half months in cling film. This cheese has a more delicate and brittle structure than other types. It has a salty and pungent taste; when cut, holes of various shapes and sizes are visible.

Armenian Chechil cheese is made from milk with the addition of rennet. When boiling it, the resulting clots are stretched and woven into braids. Thanks to this the product long time can retain its properties and remain fresh without adding preservatives. It was invented by Armenian shepherds who made the cheese to preserve milk for the winter.

Basturma

Basturma is recognized as one of the famous signature Armenian dishes - incredibly tasty, tender, aromatic dried meat using a variety of seasonings and spices. This is a great appetizer for any occasion, including holiday banquets. Basturma is considered a delicacy and has a fairly high cost.

Alcoholic drinks

Armenia is considered an open-air museum. The country has several thousand cultural and natural monuments. To enjoy and see all this beauty, you need to visit this magnificent region yourself. In addition to historical sites, the country also has historical drinks.

For more than 200 years, Armenian cognac has been considered the most popular strong drink, occupying top positions among the best alcoholic potions in the world. Vintage, collectible and ordinary cognacs are successfully sold in all countries. Now it is produced using French technology, using traditional grape varieties with a chocolate-vanilla taste that grow only in the Ararat River valley. For better fermentation of the wort, the berries are collected unripe and unsweetened.

After tasting this drink on the spot, you can take with you a couple of bottles of “Ararat”, “Noah”, “Nairi”, “Armenika” or “Akhtamara” - this will be a good memory of the trip and an excellent gift for friends.

Chacha and vodka

Chacha with a strength of 50°, and ideally 60°, is prepared from grape marc, using unvarietal grapes in whole bunches through single or double distillation. Essentially this is pure grape moonshine. It is consumed in its pure form, and by lovers of refined tastes - as part of cocktails with the addition of fruit juice and ice.

The pride of Armenians is mulberry vodka. The drink is prepared from mulberries or mulberries by fermentation and distillation in 3 steps, resulting in a product with a strength of about 80°. The history of preparation goes back more than a thousand years; each master has his own unique recipe for making mulberries.

Wine

According to archaeological excavations, people learned to produce grape drinks on the territory of Armenia back in the XIX-X centuries BC. The country has a museum located in a carved gorge with a collection of more than 3,000 types of centuries-old wines.

Climatic conditions contribute to the development of viticulture, thanks to which many outside the country are known for exceptional dessert and unique sherry wines.
The main pride of local producers of these drinks are fruit wines. The most famous of them is the crystal clear quince with a straw tint. No less revered, with its bright plum tone and pit aroma, is prune wine.

From a rare variety of pomegranate “aspet”, collected in certain time, produces a semi-sweet wine that has been admired by many generations. A unique feature of this type is a long nutty aftertaste with subtle subtle tobacco and cherry notes.

dark red blackberry wine with the taste and smell of wild berries
deep burgundy semi-sweet cherry with a hint of toasted almonds
pink raspberry wine with violet tint
the best of semi-sweet - white “Muscat”
the most popular semi-sweet white wine “Etchmiadzin” with a hint of citrus and berries
dark cherry thick, Cahors-like wine “Getashen”
the famous red wine “Areni”, obtained from the grape variety of the same name, with woody notes thanks to three years of aging in oak barrels.

You can buy wine in any of the supermarkets, shops or markets at a price of 1300Դ or 150₽.

Beer

If you are not a fan of strong alcoholic drinks, then you can also bring beer from Armenia. The most famous local brands are Kilikia, Gyumri, Kotayk, Erebuni, Ararat, etc. But, unfortunately, all varieties are quite monotonous and even somewhat similar to each other.

The only Armenian beer that I would like to mention is Kellers; it was tried by the author of the article in one of the cafes near Lake Sevan. Actually, in those parts there is a factory where it is brewed.

Mineral water

"Jermuk"

Mineral water with natural carbonation, which is produced in the same resort town Jermuk. Water is business card Armenia, just like Borjomi for Georgia. Delivered to more than 40 countries around the world.

"Bjni"

Bjni is a settlement in the Kotayk region of Armenia. It is here that this delicious medicinal table mineral water is being extracted from a depth of two hundred meters from well No. 2 EK.

This musical instrument is one of the oldest in Armenia, its age goes back thousands of years. During the production process, craftsmen tried many types of trees, but throughout all this time it was discovered that the best is duduk, made from apricot growing in the country.
The sound comes from the vibration of two plates under the air flow. The tonality of the instrument is distinguished by lyricism, and according to many, it expresses the difficult history of the Armenian nation.

A duduk or reed flute will be a great purchase, reminiscent of the days spent in this beautiful mountainous country.

Chess and backgammon

Chess owes its origins to Ancient India, which existed 1.5 millennia ago. The name comes from the Persian “Shah” meaning king, and the Arabic “checkmate” meaning dead.

The oldest backgammon board was found during excavations in Iran; its age is established at more than 5 thousand years. An analogue was found in Egypt - in the tomb of Tutankhamun (XIV century BC).

These two board games are the most popular among Armenians. In the center of Yerevan there is the Vernissage market, which occupies an entire block. The abundance of products made by local artisans is mesmerizing. Here you can buy carved backgammon and chess, which are very popular in the world.

Of course, thanks to the Internet, many people now play while sitting in front of a monitor, but how can this compare with the feeling of touching objects made by the caring hands of a master?

Other wood products

For Armenian craftsmen, wood is an obedient tool in the hands of professionals. All kinds of products are made from it, including plates, vases for fruits and flowers, original figurines, hair ornaments, wall and grandfather clocks, wine stands and wooden mini-models of temples and churches. All this can be bought in souvenir shops and local markets, taking into account your aesthetic preferences and financial capabilities.

Religious paraphernalia

Armenians are very religious people. Christianity came here in 301, but the first temples were erected here 200 years before this event. The deep reverence for religion is evidenced by the many items related to this theme. You can bring with you as a souvenir, for example, a khachkar made of stone or wood.

Wine horn

Not a single celebration in Armenia is complete without wine. A horn is a traditional metal or wooden vessel that is filled with wine for a guest and left as a gift after drinking. You can buy a product of any color and shape from local craftsmen and give it to a friend or work colleague.

Dagger

Armenia is famous for its craftsmen who make highly artistic edged weapons. Its production has flourished in the Caucasus since ancient times. Sabers, swords and daggers decorated with stones are sold almost everywhere, but certified products with expensive inlay, where it is clear that a piece of soul has been put into each, can only be found at crafts fairs and markets.

Ceramic products

Many guests of the country will be attracted by ceramic products. Pots, jugs and other utensils are usually made of red clay. During the production process, the item is covered with glaze and decorated with an ornament made in the national style.

Paintings by local artists

The most ancient genre in which Armenian masters worked visual arts, there was a church painting. Today's modern artists create in many directions, but the ancient and great culture is still superimposed on their canvases. Like the country itself, Armenian painting is bright and original. Armenian painters put their works on display and for sale in public gardens. Here you can admire the paintings, meet and communicate with the artists, purchase a landscape, still life or portrait that you like, or order a new piece.

Carpets

As in many Caucasian states, carpet weaving is considered a traditional art in Armenia. A handmade carpet will be an excellent purchase and an opportunity to invest your money profitably, because the price of the product is rising. And having an exclusive item in your home, moreover, a real work of art from the hands of Caucasian masters, becomes especially valuable and prestigious.

Local carpets are decorated with rich, complex floral or geometric patterns, some with symbolic images of birds and animals popular in Armenian folklore. The products are made only using natural materials and dyes, which means that over time the item will not fade, but will become softer in color.

Decorations

Gold and silver products are very popular in Armenia and are affordable. From ancient times to the present day, the most famous are Armenian jewelers. You can buy jewelry at a low price at the World of Gold market, in small souvenir and jewelry stores; the choice in the country is huge. For lovers of unique, exquisite designer models, there are elite brand boutiques where you can choose rare jewelry that emphasizes the flavor of the ancient people.

The Markosyan spouses, who returned to their homeland after twenty years of living in America, decided to create a unique cosmetic complex thanks to scientific research and natural ingredients. Serums and body creams contain only natural products and herbs growing in Armenia. In a short time, this series received the love of the female population not only in the country, but also abroad. Therefore, feel free to bring something from their rich assortment as a gift for your woman.

Conclusion

Armenia is a very ancient, beautiful, rich and colorful country. It is impossible to list everything that can be brought in memory of your stay in this region. If you have the opportunity to visit this fertile corner of the Caucasus, you will be able to appreciate all the local wonders yourself in order to choose a truly memorable souvenir for yourself and your loved ones.

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Armenia

Description of the country

Armenia is one of the most ancient states of Transcaucasia and the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion. Centuries-old Christian traditions are reflected in numerous monasteries, churches and khachkars (stone sculptures with crosses carved on them), the oldest of which date back to the 4th century AD. No less interesting are the ancient cities of the state, whose age reaches 3000 years, ancient fortresses and, of course, picturesque mountain landscapes, replete with deep gorges, turbulent rivers, waterfalls and lakes, among which the most large lake Transcaucasia - Sevan.

Geography

Armenia covers an area of 29.74 thousand square kilometers. It borders on Georgia in the north, Azerbaijan in the east, and Turkey in the west and south. Armenia is a high mountainous country located on the Armenian Plateau, average height which is about 1800 m above sea level. In the South-West there is the intermountain Ararat Valley.

Time

It is one hour ahead of Moscow.

Climate

Continental, dry. In the foothills, the average July temperatures are from +24 C to +26 C, January +5 C, precipitation is 200-400 mm. per year, in mountainous areas the average temperatures in July are from +18 C to +20 C, in January from 2 C to +14 C, severe frosts are frequent, precipitation falls up to 500 mm. The country is in a zone of increased seismic hazard. More than 90% of the territory of Armenia lies at an altitude of over 1000 meters above sea level, which determines the country’s climate. In summer, tropical continental air masses invade from the Iranian Plateau; in winter, the air cools greatly. In the Ararat Valley average monthly temperature July is +25 +27 degrees, in January - -5-7. Best time The year in Armenia is autumn.

Language

Armenian (state), Russian.

Religion

The bulk of believers are Christians (Monophysites) of the Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Church, as well as the Russian Orthodox Church, Muslims and other faiths.

Population

About 96% of the country's population are Armenians. Also living in Armenia are Russians, Yezidis, Kurds, Assyrians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, Georgians, Greeks and Jews.

Electricity

Voltage - 220 Volts, frequency - 50 Hertz.

Emergency numbers

Fire service - 101
Police - 102
Ambulance - 103

Connection

On city streets you can see pay phones that operate using coins or calling cards, but you can make an international call only from specialized pay phones installed at call centers, in large shopping centers and banks, as well as from hotels. In order to call from Russia to Armenia you need to dial 8 - 10 - 374 (country code) - city code - subscriber number. Yerevan code is 1. In order to call from Armenia to Russia, you need to dial 00 - 7 (Russian code) - city code - subscriber number.

Currency exchange

The country's currency is dram. Banks are open from 9.00 to 16.00 on weekdays; on Saturday, some banks accept clients from 10.00 to 14.00. Currency exchange offices are usually open from 9.00 to 22.00-24.00, often open on weekends and holidays.

Visa

Entry into Armenia for citizens of Russia and the CIS is visa-free. You must have a passport with you, valid for at least 3 months from the end of the planned trip. When traveling with children, you must take a birth certificate, the child must be included in the parent’s international passport or have his own international passport; if the child is traveling accompanied by one of the parents or third parties, a notarized power of attorney from the second parent or from the parents to take the child out is required .

Customs regulations

There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency from the country; only a customs declaration must be filled out (must be kept until departure). An amount over 10 thousand US dollars (or the equivalent in another currency) must be transferred through a bank. The import and export of local currency is prohibited. It is recommended to declare imported cash, especially if the equivalent amount exceeds $2,000. And this is to avoid possible complications when leaving the country. It is allowed to import personal items, as well as goods and other items with a total value equivalent to 500 US dollars, without paying customs duties. Duty-free import of alcoholic beverages is allowed - up to 2 liters, as well as tobacco products - up to 50 packs. Customs duty is paid on all imported goods and items whose total value exceeds the amounts stated above. The import and export of any antiques, including precious stones, coins, manuscripts and other works of art, without permission from the relevant authorities is prohibited. The transit of narcotic, poisonous and explosive substances, as well as weapons and ammunition (with the exception of hunting weapons, for which a permit is issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia) is prohibited.

Holidays and non-working days

1st of January - New Year
January 6 - Christmas
January 28 - Army Day
March 8 - International Women's Day
April 24 - Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915
May 1 - Labor Day
May 9 - Victory and Peace Day
May 28 - First Republic Day
July 5 - Constitution Day
September 21 - Independence Day
December 7 - Day of Remembrance for the Victims of the 1988 Earthquake

The Vardanank holiday (St. Vardan's Day) is celebrated on a wide scale throughout Armenia. Celebrations take place on February 15 in memory of the battle of Armenian troops with the Persian army on the Avarayr field in 451. Armenians are a religious people with ancient Christian traditions, therefore the main religious holidays are celebrated in the country.

Transport

The transport network includes railways length 830 km. (90% of them are electrified) and car roads with a total length of 7700 km. Dense network bus routes connects almost everything settlements countries, many flights are also operated by private carriers. Many buses do not have a clear schedule and depart as soon as the cabin is full. Traveling by car requires certain skills and preparation. The roads are in dilapidated condition. In mountainous areas and in the provinces, they are often simply absent; all transportation is carried out along gravel and crushed stone roads, which are quite difficult to pass without the help of local residents. Compliance with the rules traffic local residents - a separate problem. Often cars move without any signs of organization at all. But pedestrians “keep up with them”, crossing any road (even relatively good highways of national importance) wherever and however they please. Lighting on the streets is poor and often non-existent. Petrol good quality can only be found in the capital. In the provinces, they often offer fuel of dubious quality, and often of simply unknown origin, selling it in cans and bottles directly from their hands.

Buses - main type passenger transport country due to the difficult mountainous terrain and difficult relations with neighboring Azerbaijan, which impede the implementation of full-fledged railway communication. There are two main bus stations in Yerevan. The main bus station of the city, on Admiral Isakov Avenue, from where buses and minibuses depart, both within Armenia and abroad: Tbilisi, Istanbul, Akhaltsikhe, Stepanakert, Goris, Meghri, Jermuk, Sisian, Vanadzor, Gyumri, Sevan, Dilijan. The metro operates on line 1.

The transport network includes railways with a length of 830 km (90% of them are electrified). Passenger service is carried out along the Yerevan - Etchmiadzin - Gyumri - Vanadzor line (twice a day). Besides, commuter trains run daily from Yerevan to Yeraskh, Sevan (only in summer). As a rule, trains and electric trains are much slower than buses and minibuses. In addition, electric trains are in disrepair, extremely worn out and often lack even windows (for example, on the Yerevan-Yeraskh and Yerevan-Gyumri lines).

There is no domestic air service in Armenia. Air transport is much less developed (only 10 operate local airports and 3 international), since the size of the country is small, and the mountainous terrain seriously complicates air travel.

Tips

In restaurants it is customary to leave a tip of up to 10% of the amount indicated on the bill.

The shops

Stores are open Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00. Most often, markets offer tourists goods at inflated prices, so it is better to bargain before purchasing.

National cuisine

Armenian cuisine is all about greens (lots of greens!), cheeses, vegetables, meat and, of course, lavash! Hundreds of types of herbs, which any Armenian housewife uses with rare skill to prepare dishes, are simply considered weeds in the rest of the world. And here, neither an appetizer, nor a cheese, nor a meat dish is unthinkable without them. And at the same time, the recipe at first glance is extremely simple - the products are minimally processed, virtually no vegetable oils are used, and, of course, ready-made dishes are accompanied by a huge amount of herbs and seasonings. From time immemorial, people here have been eating fermented milk "matsun" and its version diluted with cold water - "tan", all kinds of salted vegetables and herbs, twisted cheese "chechil" and soft cheese "zhazhik" with herbs and green garlic, all kinds of salads using legumes, greens of all kinds types and meat products, pilaf "plav", as well as a wide variety of garlic seasonings.

They are especially respected meat dishes- kebab from large pieces of meat “khorovats” (“karsi” - cooked on the grill, “khazani” - in a pan), kebab from beef and fat tail fat “iki-bir”, meat balls from specially pounded and boiled meat - “kufta” ", round meatballs in broth "kokolik", the famous "tolma" and its lean version - "pasuts tolma", thin strips of boiled beef "baskyrtat", a porridge-like mass of chicken meat and wheat "arisa", boiled lamb with peas and herbs " bozbash", "putuk", "basturma", fried chicken with eggplant and matsun "borani", meat "sujukh", an absolutely unimaginable assortment of liver and vegetables "tisvzhik", "kchuch" of lamb, "pastinery", "amich" , various pilafs - with pomegranate ("nrov plav"), with smoked fish ("plav akhtats dzkov") or dried fruits ("chrov plav"), etc. One of the "most Armenian" dishes is Sevan trout fried on a spit. Ishkhan Khorovats". Also good are “kutan”, “fish kchuch” and “ishkhan in wine”. The preliminary preparation of meat is complex and multi-stage, so all Armenian meat dishes have a completely unique taste.

An important place on the table is occupied by soups - beef tail stew "Poch", matsun soup "Spas", the famous soup "Khash", beef soup with dried apricots "Yayni", chicken soup "Tarkhana", rice soup with onions "Chulumbur Apur" ", mushroom soup with rice "sunki apur", dried apricot soup "anushapur", cereal soups "vospnapur" and "khrchik", fruit soups "anushapur", "chirapur", etc. Soups are usually served with boiled meat, herbs and the indispensable pita.

Local sweets and confectionery products are good - traditional wide flatbread made of salt dough stuffed with “gata” (kyata), “nazuk”, “yugatert”, cookies “nshablit”, “bagarj”, “shpot”, “sharots”, candied apricots” shalakh", dried apricots and figs, homemade halva, peaches stuffed with various nuts, sweet "sujukh", numerous types of cookies with nuts and fruit jams, pies and a variety of preserves.

The country's national drink is cognac. Since ancient times, Armenians have been able to make good wine, but nowadays its production has been significantly reduced, and it is consumed mainly only within the country. But Armenian mulberry vodka, which is produced both industrially and artisanally (in almost every household), is considered a healing drink that also has a great taste. Of the soft drinks, the most famous is without a doubt "tarragon" (not at all what you can buy in a plastic bottle). Also very popular are excellent mineral water countries and fruit juices. Coffee and tea are on every corner and of excellent quality.

Attractions

Yerevan located in the middle reaches of the Hrazdan River, at altitudes from 850 to 1300 m. in the very heart of the Ararat Plain. Ancient Erebuni is mentioned in chronicles already in the 8th century. BC e., and then, for many centuries, it was a major center of Eastern Armenia and one of the key shopping centers Transcaucasia. After the collapse of the USSR, Yerevan became the capital of independent Armenia. The center of the city is the Republic Square (it houses the Museum complex, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a number of other buildings) and Mashtots Avenue, which runs from the Matenadaran to the city market. The radial layout of the center makes it easy to navigate this small area full of attractions, bounded by a ring of boulevards. In the center of the city, there are numerous squares of interest (primarily the Opera Square with the Conservatory), the Yerevan Fortress (XVI century), the famous Institute-repository of ancient Armenian manuscripts - Matenadaran (more than 16 thousand manuscripts of the 5th-10th centuries) with a monument to Mesrop Mashtots in front of the facade, memorial complex Sardarapat (1968), monument to the victims of the Armenian genocide Tsitsernakaberd with the Genocide Museum (1995), etc. The city has a huge number of churches - St. Katoghik (XV century), St. Sargis (1835-1842). ), St. Hovhannes-Mkrtich (1710), St. Hakob (XVII century), St. Astvatsatsin (XVII century), St. Gevork (XVI-XVII centuries), St. Zoravor (1693, one of oldest churches Yerevan), the huge Yerevan Cathedral (built in honor of the celebration of the 1700th anniversary of the adoption of Christianity), a mosque (XVIII century), etc.

30 km. northwest of the capital lies the city Ashtarak, in which the Karmravor Church (VII century) is located. And nearby, on the southern slope of Mount Aragats, stands the Amberd fortress (X-XIII centuries), the former family possession of the princes of Pahlavuni and one of the few surviving castles in the country. Interesting churches are Karmravor, Tsiranavor, St. Marina (1281) and St. Sarkis, Surb Mesrop Mashtots in Oshakan (here are the relics of the creator of the national alphabet Mesrop Mashtots and Prince Vahan Amatuni), as well as the monasteries of Khor Virap (one of the shrines of the Armenian church), Hovhanavank and Saghmosavank (V-XIII centuries). Amazingly good himself dormant volcano Aragats is the most high point Transcaucasia.

On the left bank of the Araks is the first capital of Armenia and ancient city countries - Armavir, founded as a fortress back in the 8th century. BC e. At the place where the Metsamor River flows into the Araks lies the second capital of the country - Artashat, "Armenian Carthage", founded in the 2nd century. BC e. Nearby is the medieval capital of the country - Dvin, who performed capital functions from the 4th to the 13th centuries. Almost completely destroyed by conquerors and merciless time, these ancient cities are gradually opening up to the world thanks to the efforts of archaeologists - here you can see the excavations of citadels, palaces, estates and individual houses that saw the birth of civilization.

Gyumri(formerly Leninakan) - the capital of Shirak Ashkhar and one of the oldest cities in Armenia (known since the 2nd century BC), located 126 km. northwest of the capital of Armenia, on the Shirak mountain plateau. The city is known as a center of traditional crafts, Armenian architecture, science, healthcare and tourism. The terrible earthquake of 1988 practically destroyed the city, wiping out its many attractions from the face of the Earth. Currently, the city is almost completely rebuilt.

IN Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) More than 1,700 historical and architectural monuments have been recorded, including about 600 monastic complexes and more than 500 churches, such as the Church of Hovhannes Mkrtich in the Gandzasar monastery complex (1216-1238), the cathedral church of the Dadi monastery (1214), the main church of Gtchavank (1241-1248), the cathedral church of Khadavank (1204) and the unique temple frescoes of Khutavank. It is worth visiting the ruins of the Khachen Palace (XIII century) north of Khokhanaberd, the Avaptuk Monastery (1163) is 5 km away. south of Gandzasar, the Vachara cemetery with a church made of hewn basalt stones, the Mamakan church in Tsmakaokhe, the Kachakhakaberd fortress (IX century), the famous Surb Akoba monastery (presumably the 6th century), the monastery complex of Koshika Anapat (XII-XIII centuries), etc.

Resorts

Resorts Hankavan, Arevik, Arzni, Vanadzor, Jermuk, Dilijan, Tsakhkadzor and others are famous throughout Transcaucasia for their beautiful landscapes, mineral springs and healing mountain air. Just 10 km. to the north of the capital lies the famous balneological resort Arzni, famous for its carbonic bicarbonate-chloride sodium mineral waters.

40 km north of Yerevan, in the picturesque valley of the Marmarik River, at an altitude of more than 1700 m above sea level, lies the once famous mountain resort Tsaghkadzor(1900-2100 m). There are about 12 km ski slopes, several lifts, large sports complex, several swimming pools (including a 50-meter indoor one), an athletics stadium, a stable, a sauna and many other sports facilities, as well as bars, restaurants and cafes with Armenian and European cuisine and original folklore programs. The Kecharis monastery complex (XII-XIII centuries) is located nearby.

Armenia is a country of ancient monuments, exclusive handicrafts, high mountains and deep gorges. A country where people carefully preserve customs, traditions, history, and culture. Armenians are famous for their hospitality, cordiality, and culinary skills. It is simply impossible to return without gifts and souvenirs.

1. Cognac and wine

Historical sources indicate that winemaking in the country was developed two thousand years ago. Due to the high sugar content in grapes, Armenian wine has a special taste and strength.

Famous wines:

red dry “Areni”;
vintage dessert “Getashen”;
white semi-sweet “Muscat”.

Armenian cognac is the main drink that you can bring back from traveling around the country. The most recognized:

ArArAt;
Armenian;
Legend of Armenia;
Treasured Mountain.

It is better to purchase alcohol in company stores or at manufacturing plants: Yerevan Cognac Factory or Armenia Wine Factory.

2. Sweets

Armenian sweets will not leave any sweet tooth indifferent. Here's what you should definitely bring from Armenia for yourself and your family as a sweet gift:

1) Baklava. A delicious dessert consisting of puff pastry, honey, and nuts. The delicacy (baklava) is popular in many Eastern countries. Armenian baklava is distinguished by the presence of cinnamon, cloves, and other spices.

2) Sujukh. A delicacy that is present on any holiday table. Its ingredients are walnuts, thick grape or apricot juice, flour, spices. It looks like the Georgian churchkhela, which is just as popular as its brother in Yerevan.

3) Doshab. Concentrated juice (apricot, grape or mulberry) without sugar. Mulberry doshab is considered an excellent remedy for coughs and colds.A high-quality product has a thick consistency and dark color. Do not buy liquid doshab: most likely, it was diluted with water.

4) Halva. A healthy delicacy that is prepared not from seeds, but with the addition of fried flour, honey, and butter.

Any sweets can be purchased at the local food market.

3. Dried fruits

Armenian dried fruits have a special taste soaked in the hot sun. The markets sell both classic sun-dried fruit slices and candied or dried fruits, which are stuffed with nuts and various delicacies.

You can buy dried fruits at the local market. Before purchasing, be sure to try the product: this is not only not prohibited, but even encouraged.

4. Cheese in a braid

Chechil is the Armenian national cheese. It consists of fibrous balls or braided braids. This product is made only by hand. This Caucasian cheese is a dietary product and has beneficial properties.

You only need to go to the market for cheeses in the morning.

5. Spices and dried herbs

You can also buy spices at home. But such an abundance of trade by weight cannot be found in any place in our temperate latitudes. Suneli hops, rosemary, coriander, red and black pepper, and various mixtures are offered at affordable prices.

Many sellers go to the mountains to buy herbs almost every day. Armenians use about 300 types of wild herbs for their dishes. The markets also sell medicinal herbs: thyme, mint, St. John's wort.

6. Pomegranate

In Armenian mythology, the fruit symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and fertility. Many beliefs and traditions are associated with this fruit.

Souvenir shops sell images of pomegranates from:

ceramics;
textiles;
metal

Jewelry in the shape of a fruit is very beautiful.

7. Gold and silver

Armenia has always been famous for its jewelry craftsmanship.

The purchase price of gold and the cost of work here are somewhat lower than in Russia and Europe.

Exclusive products are offered by Artyom’s and De Laur boutiques. Simpler products at affordable prices are available at the World of Gold jewelry market.

Silver items with traditional motifs are sold in small jewelry and souvenir shops, and in Vernissage, a large souvenir market in the center of Yerevan. The products of the PreGomesh brand are popular.

The best days to visit Vernissage are weekends; on weekdays, many stalls are empty.

8. Coral jewelry

Since ancient times, it was believed that coral protects against troubles and diseases. Coral beads were used as a talisman against the “evil eye.”

In Armenia, very beautiful unusual jewelry is made from corals: earrings, rings, bracelets, beads, hairpins. Corals are a very fragile material, all products are made only by hand.

Vernissage is a place where you can buy products of various colors and shades.

9. Ceramics

The fame of Armenian ceramics spread throughout the world back in the Middle Ages. Modern masters continue to carefully preserve ancient traditions.

Available in local markets a large number of a variety of handmade ceramic products. Here you can find a teapot, a plate for cheese, a salt shaker, and a container for spices. Bright colorful products will be a wonderful gift for loved ones.

10. Duduk

A national musical instrument slightly reminiscent of a flute. It is made from apricot wood. Bringing a duduk home means taking with you a piece of the soul of Armenia.

Inexpensive non-professional tools are sold in markets. But it is very difficult to play on it; intensive training will be needed.

11. Carpets

Carpet making has been developed in Armenia since ancient times. Wool thread is used to make carpets. And for coloring - natural dyes. Carpets made from natural materials are not cheap. If you are offered a cheap product, it means it is made of synthetics.

True connoisseurs go to the Megeryan Carpet carpet factory. Here you can not only buy a natural product, but also visit free excursion according to the plant. For a reasonable fee, you are offered to take a master class and bring home a mini-carpet of your own making.

12. Antiques

In Yerevan there are several ruins with antiques. Those who are interested in antiquity can visit Vernissage. They sell ancient icons, national costumes, daggers, and rare books here. The authorities monitor the trading process, so in most cases you can be sure of the authenticity of things.

Souvenirs from Armenia, even the smallest and inexpensive ones, retain the warmth of the southern sun and impressions of a hospitable country.

Most of the iconic sights of Armenia can be divided into the following groups:

cultural objects;
monuments of ancient architecture;
natural sites (resorts, reserves, picturesque places).

It is better to get acquainted with the country’s past and look for the roots of the national mentality in the capital’s museums. For example, in the history museum on Argishti street, where the most ancient archaeological finds Armenia. Only here you will find an ax that is 100,000 years old and, thanks to miniature models, get an idea of appearance ancient Yerevan.

There is another one on Mesrop Mashtots Avenue interesting establishment- Matenadaran. The depository of ancient manuscripts and early printed books contains about 17,000 valuable manuscripts and more than 100,000 important historical documents.

If you have time, you can drop by the Sergei Parajanov Museum on Dzogaryukh Street. By the way, the museum was opened by a close friend of the famous director. It’s also a good idea to look into the National Art Gallery, where, in addition to ancient frescoes, miniatures and examples of modern Armenian fine art, you can see paintings by the legendary marine painter Aivazovsky.

A tour of the Armenian Genocide Museum leaves a depressing impression. The interior of the object goes underground, symbolizing the entrance to the afterlife. It is never empty here, but the silence in the museum is piercing: it is not customary to talk loudly here, so as not to offend the memory of brutally tortured compatriots.

A diametrically opposite atmosphere reigns in the Megeryan Museum, located on Madoyan Street. Once in this kingdom of carpets and tapestries, it is impossible to resist exclamations of admiration. Invest in a full-fledged tour that will introduce you to the main stages of creating these beautiful products.

Armenia is a state that was one of the first to adopt Christianity, so if you are drawn to travel to holy places, consider that you are in the right place. In the vicinity of the town of Alaverdi there are two very interesting objects listed World Heritage UNESCO: Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries. Built in the 10th century, these massive stone buildings have withstood more than one earthquake.

Be sure to visit the singing fountains on Republic Square. Transparent water jets rise up and down under mesmerizing classical, pop and rock compositions, forming bizarre cascades. Each performance is accompanied by a light installation (in the dark) and ends with the legendary hit of Charles Aznavour “Eternal Love”.

There are only two outstanding monuments in Yerevan that can be considered symbols of the Armenian capital: the “Mother Armenia” monument, depicting a stern woman with a sword at the ready, and the sculpture of David Sasuntsi, a hero of the folk epic, an invincible hero. The latter is universally loved and for a long time was the official emblem of the Armeniafilm film studio. If traditional monuments seem too regular and boring, you can return to the Cascade and gaze at the avant-garde creation of Jaume Plensa - “The Man of Letters”. It is not difficult to visually determine the location of the monument: groups of tourists with photographic equipment always hang out near it. Right there, at the foot of the main staircase of Yerevan, there are other monuments full of expression. Some of them look somewhat shocking, which is why they attract attention.

All sights of Armenia

Traditions and national color

The people in Armenia are impulsive, sociable and responsive. Although official language in the country - Armenian, Russian is perfectly understood here, so if you need to clarify the route, you can safely contact local residents. It is possible that they will not only show you a more convenient path, but will also volunteer to guide you.

Smoking in in public places not welcome in Armenia. And although in most local catering establishments they turn a blind eye to a lit cigarette (as a rule, in city cafes there are no areas for non-smoking visitors), if a tourist lights up while driving, he risks being fined.

The feeling of national pride is not alien to Armenians. They are excellent at criticizing other Caucasian peoples and highlighting their own importance. But the history of their nation is revered sacredly in Armenia.

And of course, what kind of Armenian would refuse the opportunity to slightly cheat an unlucky tourist. So, going to local markets, do not hesitate to bargain: the more emotionally you do it, the more chances you have to win the seller’s favor.

But you shouldn’t abuse the sympathies of the locals: if in the capital some liberties are forgiven to a foreign guest, then in the provinces inappropriate actions can spark an unpleasant conflict. You should behave especially carefully in church and monastery premises. They also don’t like idle conversations on the topic of the Armenian genocide and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, so try not to delve into politics. And of course, under no circumstances sunbathe topless on local beaches, if you don’t want to cause open condemnation from others: although Armenia looks towards Europe, at heart it continues to remain a purely Caucasian state.

Cuisine of Armenia

Nothing offends Armenians more than identifying their national dishes with their Georgian and Azerbaijani counterparts. Here, for example, they quite sincerely believe that dolma is an original Armenian invention, which other peoples of Transcaucasia shamelessly borrowed. What’s interesting: in addition to the traditional dolma stuffed with meat, onions and spices, in Armenia there is its Lenten analogue, which is stuffed with peas, beans or lentils. This dish is eaten on New Year's Eve.

Khorovats (kebab) is served here at every turn. The main feature of the local recipe is the daily marinating of meat before frying. For vegetarians, an excellent substitute for animal products will be “summer khorovats” - vegetables baked on the grill (peppers, potatoes, tomatoes). And don’t even think about arming yourself with a fork, keep it simple: real khorovats is eaten exclusively with the hands.

You can dilute the abundance of meat food in the stomach with spasom - a soup based on the fermented milk product matsoni with the addition of wheat grains, eggs and herbs. Those who like strong and satisfying broths should opt for khash, a soup made from beef or pork legs. The dish is symbolic, therefore, if your Armenian friends invited you to khash, you can consider the test for unconditional trust passed. The khash is eaten with crushed garlic, which is spread on crispy lavash. By the way, about lavash: flat cakes are baked in a tandoor and completely replace bread for Armenians. You can wrap whatever your heart desires in pita bread: barbecue, seasonal vegetables, chopped herbs.

In the fall, all of Armenia gorges itself on khapama, which is a pumpkin stuffed with rice, almonds and dried fruits. For dessert, you can take gata - a hybrid of a bun and a layer cake filled with sugar and butter. Each region of the country adheres to its own recipes, so do not be surprised that Yerevan and Karaklis gata can differ significantly in taste characteristics.

For incorrigible sweet tooths, there is sujukh (sharots), which the ignorant often confuse with churchkhela. Sausages made from grape juice stuffed with nut kernels differ from the Georgian version of the sweet in the rich taste of spices and soft consistency. Popular types Armenian delicacies are traditionally nut-fruit: peaches drizzled with honey and stuffed with nuts, dried apricots, candied almonds.

As for drinks, there is plenty to choose from. Even ordinary tap water in Armenia is cleaner and tastier than anywhere else. Connoisseurs of strong alcohol should not leave without trying Yerevan cognac, which has been produced here for more than 125 years. Excellent quality and local wine products. It is better to buy it in stores, since it is incredibly difficult to come across a fake in them. On occasion, you can knock over a glass of apricot or mulberry vodka.

Not complaining alcoholic drinks Tourists should turn their attention towards fermented milk products: tana and matsoni. Tea is not very popular in Armenia; it is replaced everywhere by aromatic, strong coffee, which people here are experts in.

Transport

You can travel between regions of the country either by bus or by train. True, you shouldn’t claim a high level of comfort: vehicles in Armenia, as a rule, they are seasoned and not attached to such benefits of civilization as air conditioners. Most buses traveling to big cities(Vanadzor, Gyumri, Sevan), departs from central station Yerevan. From here you can go on an exciting shopping tour around Georgia or Turkey. To get to Ararat, Yeraskhavan and Atashat, you must first get to the Sasuntsi David station, from where the above routes depart.

The option of traveling by train usually turns out to be more comfortable because the drivers strictly adhere to the schedule (unlike the drivers of Yerevan buses).

Traditional public transport capitals are metro, buses, minibuses and taxis. The first does not cover all areas of the city, so locals prefer to use land transport. By the way, instead of conductors and turnstiles, payment “from hand to hand” is still in use here.

If you come to Yerevan for the first time and don’t know where to go first, take a taxi, not forgetting to hint to the driver about your own ignorance. In 99 cases out of 100, you will find a fascinating tour of the capital's streets, interspersed with emotional stories from the taxi driver.

Renting a car in Armenia is not the cheapest pleasure, but if you desperately want to drive, a Russian license is quite suitable here. And don’t forget that in situations on the road the notorious Caucasian hospitality does not work. They love to cut off, overtake and break all existing rules. By the way, parking in Yerevan is mostly paid.

Money

Yerevan shops accept the only currency – the Armenian dram (AMD). 1 dram is equal to 0.14 rubles.

There are a sufficient number of exchange points in the capital, but if desired, money can also be exchanged with private individuals (shop owners, street vendors). They usually offer exchange at a better rate than the bank. The most unfavorable option for exchanging money is the capital's airport. Large chain stores accept payment by card, and in any city in Armenia you will definitely find an ATM for cashing out funds.

Shopping

Tourists who like to bring home purchases with an indispensable national flavor from their travels have plenty of places to roam in Armenia. The best place to look for souvenirs and handicrafts is at Vernissage, an open market. Silver jewelry, folk musical instruments, pottery, stone and wood crafts, handmade carpets - the selection of national attributes here is like at an oriental bazaar from the fairy tales “1000 and One Nights.” It’s better to come to Vernissage on weekends, as all the tents and stalls are open on these days.

Flea market "Vernisage" in Yerevan

Representatives of the fair half of humanity should raid cosmetics stores in search of products from the local organic brand Nairian. Cosmetics are not cheap, but how can you resist the promising “natural product” label?

Be sure to stock up on local delicacies: cheese, honey, coffee (there is plenty of it here) better than that, which is sold in our coffee boutiques), sujukh, chocolate candies produced by the Yerevan confectionery factory Grand Candy. And of course, take with you a bag of spices and at least a bottle of Armenian cognac.

If your passion is national jewelry, do not hesitate to look into the jewelry departments. Prices for jewelry in Armenia are quite reasonable. Leather is also produced well here, so you can often find decent leather goods in the markets.