The first Armenian passport after the collapse of the USSR. - And what did you understand not about religion, but about life? Armenian musical instruments

The history of Ancient Armenia has more than one thousand years, and the Armenians themselves lived long before the emergence of the nations of modern Europe. They existed even before the advent of the ancient peoples - the Romans and Hellenes.

First mentions

In the cuneiform writings of the Persian rulers, the name "Arminia" is found. Herodotus also mentions "armen" in his writings. According to one version, it was Indo-European people who migrated from Europe in the 12th century. BC e.

Another hypothesis claims that the pra-Armenian tribal unions arose for the first time in the 4th-3rd millennium BC. It is they who, according to some scholars, are found in the poem "Iliad" by Homer under the name "Arims".

One of the names of Ancient Armenia - Hai - according to the proposals of scientists, comes from the name of the people "Hayas". This name is mentioned on Hittite clay tablets in the 2nd millennium BC. e., discovered during the archaeological excavations of Hattushashi - the ancient capital of the Hittites.

There is evidence that the Assyrians called this territory the country of rivers - Nairi. According to one hypothesis, it included 60 different peoples.

At the beginning of the ninth century BC e. a powerful kingdom of Urartu arose with the capital Van. It is believed that this is the oldest state on the territory Soviet Union. The civilization of Urartu, the successors of which were the Armenians, was quite developed. There was a written language based on the Babylonian-Assyrian cuneiform, agriculture, cattle breeding, and metallurgy.

Urartu was famous for the technology of erecting impregnable fortresses. On the territory of modern Yerevan there were two of them. The first - Erebuni, was built by one of the first kings Argishti. It was she who gave the name of the modern capital of Armenia. The second is Teishebaini, founded by King Rusa II (685-645 BC). This was the last ruler of Urartu. The state could not resist the powerful Assyria and perished forever from its weapons.

It was replaced by a new state. The first kings of Ancient Armenia - Yerwand and Tigran. The latter should not be confused with the famous ruler Tigranes the Great, who would later terrify the Roman Empire and create great empire in the East. A new people appeared, formed as a result of the assimilation of the Indo-Europeans with the local ancient tribes of the Khayami and Urartu. From here came a new state - Ancient Armenia with its own culture and language.

Vassals of the Persians

At one time, Persia was a powerful state. All the peoples who lived in Asia Minor submitted to them. This fate befell the Armenian kingdom. The dominance of the Persians over them lasted more than two centuries (550-330 BC).

Greek historians about Armenia in the times of the Persians

Armenia - ancient civilization. This is confirmed by many historians of antiquity, for example, Xenophon in the 5th century BC. e. As a participant in the events, the author of Anabasis described the retreat of 10,000 Greeks to the Black Sea through a country called Ancient Armenia. The Greeks saw the developed economic activity, as well as the life of the Armenians. They found everywhere in these parts wheat, barley, fragrant wines, lard, various oils - pistachio, sesame, almond. The ancient Hellenes also saw here raisins, leguminous fruits. In addition to crop products, the Armenians bred domestic animals: goats, cows, pigs, chickens, horses. The data of Xenophon tell the descendants that the people living in this place were economically developed. The abundance of different products is striking. The Armenians not only produced food themselves, but also actively engaged in trade with neighboring lands. Of course, Xenophon did not say anything about this, but he listed some products that do not grow in this territory.

Strabo in the 1st century. n. e. reports that ancient Armenia had very good pastures for horses. The country was not inferior to Media in this regard and supplied horses annually for the Persians. Strabo mentions the obligation of Armenian satraps, administrative governors during the reign of the Persians, of the obligation to deliver about two thousand young foals in honor of the famous festival of Mithra.

Armenian wars in antiquity

The historian Herodotus (V century BC) described the Armenian soldiers of that era, their weapons. The soldiers wore small shields, had short spears, swords, and darts. On their heads were wicker helmets, they were shod in high boots.

Conquest of Armenia by Alexander the Great

The era of Alexander the Great redrawn the entire map and the Mediterranean. All the lands of the vast Persian empire became part of a new political association under the rule of Macedonia.

After the death of Alexander the Great, the state disintegrates. In the east, the Seleucid state is formed. The once unified territory of a single people was divided into three separate regions as part of new country: Great Armenia, located on the Ararat plain, Sophene - between the Euphrates and the upper reaches of the Tigris and Lesser Armenia - between the Euphrates and the upper reaches of Lykos.

The history of ancient Armenia, although it speaks of constant dependence on other states, however, shows that it concerned only issues foreign policy which had a beneficial effect on the development of the future state. It was a kind of prototype of an autonomous republic in the composition of successive empires.

They were often called basileus, i.e. kings. They retained only formal dependence, sending tribute and troops to the center. war time. Neither the Persians nor the Hellenistic state of the Seleucids made any attempts to penetrate into the internal structure of the Armenians. If the former ruled almost all of their remote territories in this way, then the successors of the Greeks always changed the internal way of the conquered peoples, imposing on them “democratic values” and a special order.

The collapse of the Seleucid state, the unification of Armenia

After the defeat of the Seleucids by Rome, the Armenians gained temporary independence. Rome was not yet ready to start new conquests of peoples after the war with the Hellenes. This was used by the once united people. Attempts began to restore a single state, which was called "Ancient Armenia".

The ruler of Greater Armenia Artashes declared himself an independent king Artashes I. He united all the lands that spoke the same language, including Lesser Armenia. The last region of Sophene became part of the new state later, after 70 years, under the famous ruler Tigran the Great.

The final formation of the Armenian nationality

It is believed that under the new Artashesid dynasty, a great historical event took place - the formation of the Armenian nationality with its own language and culture. They were greatly influenced by their proximity to developed Hellenistic peoples. The minting of their own coins with Greek inscriptions spoke of the strong influence of neighbors on culture and trade.

Artashat - the capital of the ancient state of Greater Armenia

During the reign of the Artashesid dynasty, the first large cities appeared. Among them is the city of Artashat, which became the first capital of the new state. Translated from Greek, it meant "the joy of Artaxias."

The new capital had an advantageous geographical position in that era. It was located on the main route to the ports of the Black Sea. The time of the appearance of the city coincided with the establishment of overland trade relations between Asia and India and China. Artashat began to acquire the status of a major trading and political center. Plutarch highly appreciated the role of this city. He gave him the status of "Armenian Carthage", which is translated into modern language meant a city that unites all nearby lands. All the Mediterranean powers knew about the beauty and luxury of Artashat.

Rise of the Armenian Kingdom

The history of Armenia from ancient times contains bright moments of the power of this state. The golden age falls on the reign of Tigran the Great (95-55) - the grandson of the founder of the famous dynasty Artashes I. Tigranakert became the capital of the state. This city became one of the leading centers of science, literature and art throughout the ancient world. The best Greek actors performed in the local theater, famous scientists and historians were frequent guests of Tigran the Great. One of them is the philosopher Metrodorus, who was an ardent opponent of the growing Roman Empire.

Armenia became part of the Hellenistic world. The Greek language penetrated the aristocratic elite.

Armenia is a unique part of the Hellenistic culture

Armenia in the 1st century BC e. - developed advanced state of the world. She took all the best that was in the world - culture, science, art. Tigran the Great developed theaters and schools. Armenia was not only the cultural center of Hellenism, but also an economically strong state. Trade, industry, crafts grew. hallmark state was that it did not take the system of slavery used by the Greeks and Romans. All lands were cultivated by peasant communities, whose members were free.

The Armenia of Tigran the Great spread over vast territories. This was an empire that covered a huge part from the Caspian to the Mediterranean Seas. Many peoples and states became its vassals: in the north - Tsibania, Iberia, in the southeast - Parthia and Arab tribes.

Conquest by Rome, end of the Armenian Empire

The rise of Armenia coincided with the rise of another eastern state in the territory former USSR- Pontus led by Mithridates. After long wars with Rome Pontus also lost its independence. Armenia was in good neighborly relations with Mithridates. After his defeat, she was left alone with mighty Rome.

After long wars, the unified Armenian Empire in 69-66. BC e. broke up. Under the rule of Tigranes, only that which was declared a "friend and ally" of Rome remained. So called all the conquered states. In fact, the country has become another province.

After joining the Roman Empire, the ancient stage of statehood begins. The country fell apart, its lands were appropriated by other states, and local population were constantly in conflict with each other.

Armenian alphabet

In ancient times, the Armenians used writing based on the Babylonian-Assyrian cuneiform. In the heyday of Armenia, during the time of Tigran the Great, the country completely switched to Greek language in business circulation. On the coins, archaeologists find Greek writing.

The Armenian alphabet was created by Mesrop Mashtots relatively late - in 405. It originally consisted of 36 letters: 7 vowels and 29 consonants.

The main 4 graphic forms of Armenian writing - yerkatagir, bolorgir, shkhagir and notrgir - developed only in the Middle Ages.

- a state in the Transcaucasian region of Western Asia. In the north it borders with Georgia, in the east and southwest - with Azerbaijan, in the west - with Turkey, in the south - with Iran.

The name comes, according to legend, from the name of Armenak - the ancestor of the Armenians.

Official name: Republic of Armenia

Capital:

The area of the land: 29.8 thousand sq. km

Total population: 3 million people

Administrative division: The country is divided into 11 regions (mazrov).

Form of government: Parliamentary republic.

Head of State: President elected for a term of 5 years.

Composition of the population: 93% - Armenians, 2% - Russians, 4% - Kurds, Ukrainians, Georgians, Greeks.

Official language: Armenian, also many speak Russian.

Religion: 94% - Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Church, 4% - Russian Orthodox Church.

Internet domain: .am

Mains voltage: ~230 V, 50 Hz

Phone country code: +374

Country barcode: 485

Climate

Continental, mountainous. The weather, regardless of the time of year, often varies greatly even at nearby points, which is explained enough great height above sea level and a strong dissection of the landscape. In general, summers are hot and dry, and winters, although short, are quite severe.

In the foothills, the average summer temperatures are from +24 to +26 C, in winter - about +5 C. In mountainous areas, the average temperature in summer is from +10 to +22 C, in winter - from +2 to -14 C, depending on the height of the place. Even within the same city, the temperature difference between two neighboring regions can reach 2-3 C. In the autumn-spring period, severe frosts are frequent, while the temperature on the soil can drop to -28 C.

Precipitation falls from 200 to 800 mm. per year, depending on the height of the place. The maximum is observed in spring and early summer, the minimum is observed in the second half of summer and winter. Quite a lot (up to 100-150 mm) of snow falls in mountainous regions in winter, which remains on the slopes until March-April, and on the peaks - all year round.

Geography

A country in Transcaucasia, in the northeastern part of the ancient volcanic Armenian Highlands, framed by the spurs of the Lesser Caucasus Range. In the north it borders with Georgia, in the east - with Azerbaijan, in the west and south - with Turkey, in the south - with Iran.

Most of the territory of Armenia is located at altitudes from 1000 to 2500 m above sea level (the average height is 1800 m, the highest point is the city of Aragats, 4090 m), on the territory of lava plateaus and low mountain ranges of Pambak, Geghama, Vardenis and Zangezur ridges, dissected by a dense network of valleys and deep gorges. The south-west of the country is occupied by a relatively flat Ararat valley (average height 850-1000 m.), In which most of the large settlements countries. The total area is about 29.8 thousand square meters. km.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

The most common plant formations in Armenia are steppes and semi-deserts. At low altitudes, sagebrush semi-deserts are developed, in some places turning into saltwort and Achilles-dzhuzgun deserts. In the middle belt of mountains, grass and herb-cereal steppes dominate, which give way to meadow steppes and alpine meadows with height. Broad-leaved forests dominated by oak, beech and hornbeam occupy no more than 1/8 of the country's area and are confined to its northeastern regions. Poplar and Walnut. Significant areas on volcanic plateaus are occupied by stone placers practically devoid of vegetation.

Animal world

Of the mammals in Armenia, the wolf, bear, hare, fox, badger are ubiquitous, as well as the bezoar goat, mouflon, roe deer, lynx, leopard, forest and reed cat, wild boar, porcupine, squirrel, jackal, ground squirrel, marten. Numerous species of birds nest: crane, stork, partridge, quail, black grouse, eagle, vulture, snowcock. The crane (krunk in Armenian) is the national symbol of the country.

Among many reptiles, the poisonous Caucasian viper stands out. Scorpions are a big threat. Among the lake fish, the Sevan trout, ishkhan, khramulya and barbel are characteristic. Sika and red deer, as well as nutria are acclimatized in Armenia, and whitefish in Sevan.

Attractions

Armenia is the oldest country, the first Christian state in the world and one of the earliest countries on Earth in general - already in the 9th-6th centuries. BC e. on the territory of Armenia there was a powerful state of Urartu. Since then, all the epochs that have swept over this ancient land have left their marks on it. Therefore, in terms of the number of historical and cultural monuments, this country can be considered one of the most interesting in the Old World. The main attractions are located in the vicinity of Yerevan - one of ancient cities of the world, as well as scattered throughout the country, often even in the most "deaf corner" you can find a monument worthy of being considered the property of all mankind.

Banks and currency

The national currency of Armenia is Dram. Usage credit cards and tourist checks is difficult, in the provinces it is impossible. In large hotels, private institutions and markets, it is possible to use US dollars and Russian rubles. Banks work from 9.00 to 16.00 on working days, on Saturday some banks accept clients from 10.00 to 14.00. Currency exchange is not difficult, it can be done at the airport, banks and exchange offices.

Banks work from 9.00 to 16.00 on working days, 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 work on weekends and holidays.

Useful information for tourists

In Armenia, the traditional norms of family and kindred mutual assistance, colorful family and calendar rituals are preserved. In July, the Vardavar holiday (Vard is the pagan god of water) is merrily celebrated: young people dance, pour water on each other, climb the flowering mountain meadows and springs. Characteristic modern way of life of the Armenian people - a deep and lively interest in their cultural and historical traditions, the desire to preserve the continuity of generations.

Armenia is a state in the Transcaucasus, located in the north geographical region Western Asia and the northeast of the Armenian Highlands. Has no access to the sea. It borders with Azerbaijan and the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic in the east. In the south-west with the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, which is part of Azerbaijan. With Iran in the south, with Turkey in the west and with Georgia in the north. Armenia controls part of the territory of Azerbaijan (the enclaves of Kyarki, Barkhudarly, Sofulu, Upper Askipara), Azerbaijan controls part of the territory of Armenia (the exclave of Artsvashen).

Official name of Armenia: Republic of Armenia.

Territory of Armenia: The total area of the state of the Republic of Armenia is 29800 km².

Population of Armenia: The total population of Armenia is over 3 million inhabitants (3,018,854 people).

Ethnic groups of Armenia: According to the 2001 census, the national composition of the Republic of Armenia is as follows: Armenians - 97.89%, Yezidis - 1.26%, Russians - 0.46%, Assyrians - 0.11%, Ukrainians - 0.05%, Kurds - 0.047 %, Greeks - 0.036%, others - 0.14%.

Average life expectancy in Armenia: The average life expectancy in Armenia is 74.37 years.

Capital of Armenia: Yerevan.

Major cities of Armenia: Yerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzor.

State language of Armenia: Armenian, Russian is also widely spoken.

Religion in Armenia: Armenia is one of ancient states world and the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion. There are currently 57 operating in Armenia religious organizations, a synagogue was opened, as well as churches and prayer houses of various religious minorities. At the same time, the status of the national church of the Armenian people is legally assigned to the Armenian Apostolic Church, and certain restrictions (for example, a ban on proselytism) are imposed on the religious freedom of representatives of other confessions.

Geographical position of Armenia: Armenia is a landlocked country in the Transcaucasus. It is located in the north-west of the Armenian Highlands, called historical Armenia, between the Black and Caspian Seas. From the north and east it is framed by the ridges of the Lesser Caucasus. It borders with Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkey.

Despite the fact that geographically Armenia is located in Asia, it has close political and cultural ties with Europe. Armenia has always been at the crossroads connecting Europe and Asia, therefore it is considered as a transcontinental state.

The relief of Armenia is mostly mountainous, with fast rivers and few forests. Armenia occupies an area of about 30,000 km², over 90% of which are located at an altitude of more than 1,000 m above sea level. The highest point, Mount Aragats, is 4095 m, and the lowest point is 400 m above sea level. highest point region and the historical symbol of Armenia - Mount Ararat - has been located in Turkey since the 1920s.

Rivers of Armenia: Araks - in the territory of Armenia 158 km. (total length 1072 km.), Akhuryan - in the territory of Armenia 186 km., Vorotan - in the territory of Armenia 119 km. (total length 179 km.), Debed - in the territory of Armenia 152 km. (total length 178 km.), Hrazdan - in the territory of Armenia 141 km., Aghstev - in the territory of Armenia 99 km. (total length 133 km.).

brief information

Small Armenia connects Europe with Asia. Once upon a time, Armenia was one of the largest states in the Middle East and Transcaucasia, which competed with the Parthian kingdom and Ancient Rome. Now Armenia is a modern country with hospitable people, ancient history, a huge number of historical monuments, rich culture, delicious food, beautiful nature. In addition, there are several ski and balneological resorts in Armenia.

Geography of Armenia

Armenia is located in the Transcaucasus. Armenia borders Turkey in the west, Azerbaijan and Karabakh in the east, Georgia in the north, and Iran in the south. The total area of this country is 29,743 sq. km., and the total length of the state border is 1,254 km. Armenia has no access to the sea.

Armenia occupies part of the territory of the Armenian Highlands. We can safely say that Armenia is a mountainous country. The highest peak in Armenia is Mount Aragats, whose height reaches 4,095 meters. Previously, Mount Ararat belonged to Armenia, but now this peak is located in Turkey. The most beautiful mountains Armenia is adjacent to numerous valleys. The largest of them is the Ararat valley.

There are more than 9 thousand rivers in Armenia, of course, most of them are small. But the largest river in Transcaucasia, the Araks, flows through the territory of Armenia.

Lake Svan is a 2-hour drive from Yerevan. This lake is the pride of every Armenian.

Capital

Since ancient times, the capital of Armenia has been Yerevan, which is now home to about 1.2 million people. Archaeologists claim that people lived on the territory of modern Yerevan already in the 8th century BC.

Official language of Armenia

The official language in Armenia is Armenian, belonging to the Indo-European language family.

Religion

Most of the population of Armenia are Orthodox Christians (they belong to the Armenian Apostolic Church).

State structure of Armenia

According to the current Constitution of 1995, Armenia is parliamentary republic. Its head is the President, elected for 5 years.

In Armenia, the local unicameral Parliament is called the National Assembly (131 deputies). Deputies of the National Assembly are elected by popular vote for 5 years.

The main political parties in Armenia are the Republican Party of Armenia, Prosperous Armenia, the Armenian National Congress, and the Land of Law.

Climate and weather

Almost the entire territory of Armenia is located in a continental, high-mountain climate. Only in the south of Armenia the climate is subtropical. In the mountains in summer the average air temperature ranges from +10C to +22C, and in winter - from +2C to -14C. On the plains in January, the average air temperature is -5C, and in July - +25C.

The amount of precipitation depends on the height of the location of one or sometimes the region of Armenia. On average, from 200 to 800 mm of precipitation falls annually in Armenia.

The best time to visit Armenia is from May to October.

Rivers and lakes of Armenia

More than 9 thousand rivers flow through the territory of Armenia. Most of them are small. The largest river in Armenia is the Araks, which is considered the largest in the entire Transcaucasus.

Relatively close to Yerevan, about 2 hours drive, is Lake Svan. Every Armenian is proud of this lake, almost as much as Mount Ararat, although it now belongs to Turkey.

History of Armenia

People on the territory of modern Armenia lived already in bronze age. In the VIII-VI centuries BC. e. on the territory of modern Armenia there was a state of Urartu.

In the II century. BC e. several Armenian states were formed - Sophena, as well as Greater Armenia and Lesser Armenia.

In 301 BC Christianity became the state religion of Armenia. In the era of the early Middle Ages, Armenia was part of the Arab Caliphate.

In the 9th-11th centuries, several states existed on the territory of modern Armenia - the kingdom of Ani, the kingdom of Vaspurakan, the kingdom of Kars, the kingdom of Syunik, and the kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget.

In the XI-XVI centuries, Armenia was part of the empire of the Seljuk Turks, the Georgian kingdom, and the Oguz tribal union. In the XVI-XIX centuries the territory of Armenia was divided between Iran and the Ottoman Empire.

According to the Turkmanchay peace treaty of 1828, most of Armenia was included in Russian Empire. Only in 1918 was the independent Republic of Armenia formed, which then became part of the Transcaucasian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. In 1922, Armenia became part of the USSR.

In the late 1980s, sentiments about secession from the USSR became strong in Armenia. As a result, in September 1991, Armenia declared its independence.

In 1992, Armenia became a member of the UN.

culture

Armenia only in 1991 became an independent country. Prior to that, for many centuries it was part of the USSR, the Russian Empire, the Ottoman Empire, Iran, the Kingdom of Georgia, and the empire of the Seljuk Turks. All these states tried to “blur” the Armenian culture, to impose their cultural traditions on the inhabitants of Armenia. However, despite this, the Armenians managed to preserve their identity, their customs and traditions.

Every winter, Armenians celebrate the holiday of lovers Trndez. On this day Armenians need to jump over the fire to be happy.

Another interesting Armenian festival is the summer “water festival” Vardavar. On this day, Armenians splash water on each other, it is believed that in this way girls and boys attract each other's attention (that is, this is the holiday of lovers). The origins of the Vardavar holiday go back to the times when Armenia was not a Christian country.

Kitchen

Armenians are very proud of their cuisine, and it should be noted that it is quite deserved. The main food products are meat, vegetables, dairy products (especially salty cheese), fish, fruits, lavash bread. In Armenian cuisine, great attention is paid to spices.

When the Armenians have nowhere to hurry, they dine for a very long time. The main reason for this tradition is table talk.

In Armenia, we definitely (along with barbecue) recommend tourists to try the following dishes:

- "Tolma" - lamb in a grape leaf;
- "Putuk" - lamb soup;
- "Khash" - beef soup;
- "Kyufta" - meat balls;
- "Basturma" - dried beef meat.

In addition, in Armenia they cook very tasty trout from Lake Svan - try it. In general, fish dishes in Armenia are all very tasty.

Very tasty fruits and berries are grown in Armenia - peaches, plums, apples, pears, cherry plums, cherries, cherries, cornelian cherry, grapes.

Traditional non-alcoholic drinks in Armenia - Tarragon, fruit juices, mineral water, milk drinks (kefir, yogurt).

Armenia makes excellent wines and cognacs. Try it and you will see for yourself.

Sights of Armenia

According to official data, there are now about 26,000 historical and architectural monuments in Armenia. Since 2005, a national program for the restoration of architectural and historical monuments has been implemented in Armenia. So, only in 2012 in Armenia, at the expense of the state budget, 9 monuments of the Middle Ages were restored (for example, the church of St. Hovhannes and the monastery of Kobayravank of the 12th century were restored). The Top 10 best Armenian attractions, in our opinion, may include the following:

Etchmiadzin Monastery
Ruins of Zvartnots temple
Kecharis Monastery near Tsaghkadzor
Garni fortress in Abovyan region
Amberd fortress of Pahlavuni princes
Harichavan monastery complex near Gyumri
Shatinvank monastery in southeastern Armenia
Church of St. Katoghike in Yerevan
Ruins of Avan temple in Yerevan
Sisavan Church in Zangezur

Cities and resorts

The largest Armenian cities are Gyumri, Vanadzor, and, of course, Yerevan.

There are a lot of mineral springs in Armenia, and, as a result, balneological resorts. The most popular of them is Arzni, located 10 kilometers from Yerevan. Among other balneological and mountain climatic resorts of Armenia, Hankavan, Vanadzor, Arevik, Jermuk, Arevik, Tsakhkadzor, and Dilijan should be noted.

Since Armenia is a mountainous country, it is not surprising that it has several ski resorts. So, 40 kilometers from Yerevan is the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor, which has 12 kilometers of slopes for skiing. By the way, the skiing season in the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor lasts from mid-November to mid-April.

Souvenirs/Shopping

Tourists from Armenia usually bring folk art products, Armenian musical instruments (zurna, tar, shvi, dool, duduk), Armenian headdresses, wine horn, backgammon (for example, backgammon made of walnut), and, of course, Armenian cognac, as well as wine.

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

cultural objects;
monuments of ancient architecture;
natural objects (resorts, wildlife sanctuaries, picturesque places).

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

On Mesrop Mashtots Avenue there is another interesting institution - Matenadaran. The funds of the repository of ancient manuscripts and early printed books include about 17,000 valuable manuscripts and more than 100,000 important historical documents.

If there is time left, 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 is not a sin to look into the National Art Gallery, where, in addition to ancient frescoes, miniatures and samples of modern Armenian fine art, you can see the canvases of the legendary marine painter Aivazovsky.

A tour of the Armenian Genocide Museum leaves a depressing impression. Interior spaces object go underground, symbolizing the entrance to afterworld. 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 realm of carpets and tapestries, it is impossible to resist exclamations of admiration. Invest in a full tour that will walk you through the basic steps involved in making these beautiful pieces.

Armenia is a state that was one of the first to adopt Christianity, so if you are drawn to wandering around holy places, consider that you are in the right place. In the vicinity of the town of Alaverdi there are two very interesting object 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 in Republic Square. Transparent water jets rise and fall to mesmerizing classical, pop and rock compositions, forming whimsical cascades. Each performance is accompanied by a light installation (at night) and ends with the legendary hit of Charles Aznavour "Eternal Love".

There are only two outstanding monuments that can be considered symbols of the Armenian capital in Yerevan: the monument “Mother Armenia”, depicting a stern woman with a sword at the ready, and the sculpture of David Sasuntsi, the hero folk epic, an invincible hero. The latter enjoys universal love and for a long time was the official emblem of the "Armenfilm" film studio. If the traditional monuments seem too correct and boring, you can return to the Cascade and stare 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 a bit outrageous, and this attracts attention.

All sights of Armenia

Traditions and national flavor

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

Smoking in public places in Armenia is not welcome. And although in most local catering points a lit cigarette is overlooked (as a rule, there are no areas for non-smoking visitors in city cafes), a tourist who smokes while driving runs the risk of being fined.

The feeling of national pride is not alien to Armenians. They know how to criticize other Caucasian peoples and stick out their own significance here. But the history of their nation in Armenia is revered sacredly.

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: moreover, the more emotionally you do it, the more chances you have to win the favor of the seller.

But you should not 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 ignite an unpleasant conflict. You should be especially careful in church and monastery premises. They do not like idle talk about the Armenian genocide and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, so try not to delve into politics. And of course, in no case do not sunbathe topless on local beaches if you do not want to cause open condemnation of others: although Armenia looks towards Europe, it continues to be a purely Caucasian state in its soul.

Armenian Cuisine

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

Khorovats (barbecue) is served here at every turn. The main feature of the local recipe is the daily pickling of meat before frying. For vegetarians, an excellent substitute for an animal product will be "summer khorovats" - grilled vegetables (peppers, potatoes, tomatoes). And do not try to arm yourself with a fork, be simpler: a real khorovats is eaten exclusively with the help of hands.

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

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

For the incorrigible sweet tooth, 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 sweetness in a rich taste of spices and soft texture. Popular types of Armenian delicacies are traditionally nutty and fruity: peaches poured with honey and stuffed with nuts, dried apricots, candied almonds.

As for drinks, there are 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 production. It is better to take it in stores, because it is incredibly difficult to run into a fake in them. On occasion, you can knock over a glass of apricot or mulberry vodka.

Tourists who do not like alcoholic drinks should turn their attention towards fermented milk products: tana and matsoni. Tea is not very popular in Armenia, it is everywhere replaced by fragrant strong coffee, which they know a lot about here.

Transport

You can move between regions of the country either by bus or by train. Indeed, claim high level comfort is not worth it vehicles in Armenia, as a rule, they are battered and not tied to such benefits of civilization as air conditioners. Most buses to major cities (Vanadzor, Gyumri, Sevan) depart from Yerevan Central Station. From here you can also go on an exciting shopping tour in Georgia or Turkey. To get to Ararat, Yeraskhavan and Atashat, you must first get to the Sasuntsi David railway station, from where the above-mentioned routes depart.

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

The traditional public transport of the capital is the 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, hand-to-hand payment is still in use here.

If you have arrived in Yerevan for the first time and do not 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 have a fascinating tour of the streets of the capital, interspersed with emotional stories from a taxi driver.

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

Money

Shops in Yerevan 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). Usually they offer an exchange at a more pleasant rate than a bank. The most unprofitable option for exchanging money is the capital's airport. Large chain stores accept card payments, in addition, in any city in Armenia, you will definitely find an ATM for cashing out funds.

shopping

Tourists who love to bring purchases with an indispensable national flavor from their travels have places to roam in Armenia. Souvenirs and products handmade it is best to look at the "Vernissage" - open market. Silver jewelry, folk musical instruments, pottery, stone and wood crafts, handmade carpets - the choice of national attributes here, as in the oriental bazaar from the fairy tales "1000 and one nights". It is better to come to Vernissage on weekends, as all tents and stalls are open on these days.

Flea market "Vernissage" in Yerevan

Ladies 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” labeling?

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

If your passion is national jewelry, feel free to look into the jewelry departments. Prices for jewelry in Armenia are quite reasonable. Leather is also well made here, so you can often find decent leather goods in the markets.