Gyumri - the Northern Capital of Armenia

What to Expect

Ancient Monastery Marmashen
You will admire the architectural masterpiece of ancient times and learn the history of the monastery, whose origins date back to the 10th century. I will tell you about dozens of kilometers of tunnels that used to connect Marmashen with the Ani Cathedral in Western Armenia. You will also unravel the secret of the spring within the monastery - the water flows only if specific actions are taken!

Magic Stone
Next, you will head to the village of Azik, just a ten-minute drive from Gyumri. A local attraction is the Tzak Kar stone, fulfilling wishes. It is believed that if you crawl through the hole in the stone three times while constantly thinking of your hidden desire, everything you wish for will come true. The main thing is not to have a heavy breakfast beforehand 😉

Black Fortress
The next stop on the itinerary is the citadel from the times of the Russian Empire and Gyumri's hallmark. I will tell you about its various purposes over the years and its role in the war against the Turks. You will also hear about the long history of Gyumri's relationship with Russia and understand what connects them today.

Strolling Through Ancient Streets
After the fortress, we will leave the car behind and explore the city on foot. We will start with the Museum of Urban Life and Folk Architecture in Gyumri. You will learn about the city's heyday and the famous people who lived here. Visit the Surp Amenaprkich Church, and then we will talk about the challenging period after the 1988 earthquake. You will also take a walk through the central streets and learn more about the unique architecture of the city, built from black tuff.