About this experience
Ancient houses with wooden doors, a church with five altars, and the 'Black Fortress' of Gyumri will immerse you in the atmosphere of Armenian province. I will make stops at the Samogasavan Monastery, the monument to the alphabet, and the famous bakery, sharing stories about the history, culture, and traditions of our country.
What to Expect
A Long Road Ahead
The journey from Yerevan to Gyumri is a true adventure. Beautiful views will unfold before you: the panorama of the Kasakh River gorge and the picturesque Mount Aragats. At its foot lies the monument to the Armenian alphabet, where you can take a photo by the first letter of your name. We will discuss its origins and the amazing connection between our alphabet and Mendeleev's table. Along the way, we will encounter the legendary bakery 'Gntunik'. You will witness the baking process according to an ancient recipe and taste traditional lavash, puri, and many other oven-baked delicacies. We will also make a stop at the Sagmosavank Monastery on the edge of a picturesque gorge.
Quiet Quarters of the Old City
In Gyumri, we will stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, which, like a time machine, will transport us to the 19th century when Alexandropol was one of the three main cities in the Caucasus as part of the Russian Empire. You will visit the 'Black Fortress', built by order of Nicholas I, and explore Vardanants Square, preserving memories of heroic pages of our history. Also located on the square is the unique church of St. Mary, known as the 'Church of the Seven Wounds'. I will explain why the church has five altars and tell you about the main relics of the church.
Organizational Details
- Payment is also possible in local currency
How the Tour Goes
- The tour will be conducted by me or one of the professional guides from our team
- I will pick you up from any point within Yerevan and drop you back after the tour
- The tour is also suitable for those departing from the international airport of Gyumri
- The weather in Gyumri may be slightly cooler than in Yerevan, so, just in case, bring warm clothes
What's Included and What's Not
- In Gyumri, we will visit one of the colorful restaurants of the city, where you can taste traditional dishes to suit any taste. The average lunch bill per person: around 5,000-6,000 Armenian drams
- The tour can be arranged for a larger group of travelers (up to 18). If there are 7 or more of you, the tour should be booked at least three days in advance.
- Optional visit to the 'Museum of Urban Life and Folk Architecture of Gyumri'
- Optional tasting of fruit brandies ranging from 48 to 55 degrees
- Drone shooting available - details to be clarified in the correspondence with the guide
