National traditions of Armenia. Habits, mentality and the way of living

The mentality of Armenians isn't solid. The characteristics can vary greatly depending on the region of residence. Highlanders living in the mountains are prudish. Women in these villages are dressed very modestly. They don’t accept loud talk or laughter on the street. All customs are canonically observed. If a guy likes a girl, he can steal her. Then she will have to marry him, so as not to disgrace the honor of her family. However, such a puritanism is prevalent, mainly, in small towns and in particular villages. In Yerevan, Gyumri, and Vanadzor, people share modern views. Armenians have been subjected to genocide by the Ottomans for centuries because of their unwillingness to abandon Christianity. Therefore, self-consciousness and pride for their country are an integral part of Armenian nature.

Armenia is a fairly closed country. About 98% of its inhabitants are Armenians. However, this does not mean that locals don’t like tourists. On the contrary, Armenians are famous for their hospitality and cordiality. Locals have a vivid sense of humor; that’s one of the national traits. Therefore, communication with local residents will always be fun and easy. Close friends are considered members of a family. Armenians are ready for any deeds and sacrifices to help their friends. In Armenia, the family is treated with great respect. Parents not only provide their children with everything they need; elder people create ideal conditions for kids and fulfill all the whims. The parents are also treated with honor. The younger son, as a rule, brings the bride to the parents' house in order to look after them. Nevertheless, Armenians tend to be cunning. They very rarely do something at their own expense and are able to outwit anyone.

A lot of coffee is drunk in Armenia. A pause for coffee is a local tradition and a way to distract from business and relax. Coffee is the occasion for a meeting. This beverage is usually served with sweets, fresh or dried fruits. Armenians are very fond of celebrations. Armenian weddings feature luxurious dresses and rich decoration of a hall. During the dance of the bride and groom, relatives throw bills to wish a rich and prosperous life. Birthdays, name days, and anniversaries are celebrated too. Exquisite ornaments, gilding, and flowers are always used in decoration. Armenians like to demonstrate their prosperity, show off their children's successes, talk about their talents and achievements. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

One of the oldest national rituals in Armenia is matakh or sacrifice. The rite is held in the local Apostolic Church. That doesn’t involve blood, and therefore it can not be attributed to the pagans. The animal is sacrificed in order to arrange a charity dinner, please God and thank Him. As a victim, the ram is most often used. The animal before the ceremony must be fed with salt, consecrated in the church, and killed after all. Meat is cooked in water, seasoned with the same holy salt. The whole family, relatives, and friends gather at the table. After the meal, it is necessary to share the remains with the neighbors who need it. People don’t necessarily sacrifice animals. Bread, clothes, and money can be donated too. The main idea of ​​this rite is the distribution of food or other stuff for charity.

Armenians are very fond of gold and jewelry. Men wear thick chains, massive crosses, and rings. Women, not being able to dress brightly because of the mentality. However, they also like to decorate themselves with large gold items. The traditional color for Armenians is black. Clothes of this color can be found on the streets more often. It is customary to wear black after the death of a family member. Mourning lasts a year. Men do not shave a beard at this time. The national music of Armenians is very authentic. The most famous and ancient musical instrument is a duduk, a wind instrument cut of an apricot tree. The Armenians call it the soul of the apricot tree. They play duduk at weddings, funerals, and during folk festivities.