Sightseeing in Gyumri - what to see. Complete travel guide
Do you want to visit the center of Armenian humor? In this country, all roads lead to Gyumri, residents of which are famous for their sense of humor. It is hard to find such cheerful people in many parts of the world, and the Armenian city is proud of this fact. Besides that, Gyumri is one of the oldest cities in Armenia famous for its rich heritage and ancient monasteries. Finally, it is impossible to fail to mention the picturesque nature of this region that has always inspired and keeps inspiring local poets and painters. There are still old settlements and villages not far from this city. A visit to them is like a journey to the past, to the time when the history of Armenia and its people just started.
According to historians, first settlers in the territory of modern Gyumri appeared yet in the 6th century BC. However, first mentions of town in this area appeared only in the 8th century when a rebellion against Arabian rulers started here. Gyumri had another name at that time – Kumayri. In the Middle Ages, this was already a large town that kept growing in size and expanding. Kumayri became a part of Persia in the middle of the 16th century. A war between Persian and Russian people started at the beginning of the 19th century and lasted nine years. Russian troops came to the Armenian town and captured it.
Vartanants Square is the central square in this Armenian city and a popular landmark that all guests of this city enjoy visiting. When you approach the square, you will immediately notice a beautiful monument in the center. This is the statue of Saint Vardan Mamikonian on his horse. The saint is depicted holding his sword and cross as if he is asking God to help him. Mamikonian is a popular national hero who spent his life fighting for Christianity. He was also against the Iranian invasion. Taking into consideration his achievements and martyrdom, it was decided to canonize Vardan Mamikonian.
Besides the monument, the square is famous for the Holy Saviour's Church that is located on its southern side. Unfortunately, a devastating earthquake, which happened in Gyumri in 1988, severely damaged the city, destroying many important landmarks. The church couldn’t resist the natural disaster and was also severely damaged. Nowadays, the church is partially restored but it still closed for visitors. To keep the restored building as close to the original as possible, it was decided to use fragments of the original building. Evening is the best time to visit the square. Interesting illumination lights up all major buildings on the square including the city administration.
Black Fortress was built in 1837 right before the visit of Russian tsar Nikolai I. The fortress has a circular shape. The unusual black fortress was built on the highest hill in the area. It was an important protective facility during the Russian-Turkish war. Nowadays, there is no need to protect Gyumri from foreign invaders, and so the fortress is abandoned. This is a private estate that is slowly ruining now. Tourists can go up to the fortress wall and enjoy the panorama of the city and even the Turkish border.
After a long day full of adventures in Gyumri, it is particularly pleasant to walk in the central park. This is a comfortable recreation area with many various amusements. The park remains a cool place even on hot days because of tall and old trees. The green Armenian “oasis” was founded in the 20s of the previous century. An interesting fact – there was a cemetery on the site of this park before. This doesn’t prevent the park from being the most beautiful place in Gyumri. Visitors can take a ride on the Ferris wheel and admire the scenic view of surroundings or take a ride on four-wheelers.
There are several ways of arriving in Gyumri. The first way is to fly to the city. There is an airport in Gyumri that accommodates international flights from Russia and some other countries. It is also possible to fly to Yerevan first and then get on a train to Gyumri. You will reach the destination city in two and a half hours.
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City tours, excursions and tickets in Gyumri and surroundings
Reference information
Map of all castles
Survived castles around Gyumri
♥ Castle 'Dashtadem Fortress' , 50.4 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Lori Berd' , 53.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Zeva Fortress' , 55.4 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Bjni Fortress' , 77.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Kayan Berd' , 79.1 km from the center. On the map
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Map of all parks
National and city parks around Gyumri
♥ National Park 'Lake Arpi' , 35.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Dilijan' , 90.7 km from the center. On the map
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Sightseeing in Armenia: things to see
Of course, not all places of interest in Armenia are located in Yerevan. The city of Gyumri is one more beautiful place that can amaze visitors with its historical and architectural treasures. The fortress that shares its name with the city is the symbol of Gyumri. Several monasteries, an ancient basilica and churches are not a complete list of sights that you will see in the city. The most famous landmarks of Gyumri include Harichavank Monastery, the Cathedral of Ani, Marmashen Monastery, and Harich Monatery. Archeological excavations never stop in the city and its suburbs, especially in Lori Berd Fortress built in the 10th century. There are several historic churches near the fortress, such as Nor Getik, Haghpat Monastery, Haghartsin Monastery and Makaravank.
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Search touristic sites on the map of Gyumri
All about Gyumri, Armenia - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Gyumri, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Gyumri in few days.
