Armenia Tourism Magazine № 17 - 2017 by ARMENIA TOURISM Magazine

Baghramyan 1-st Lane 1-3, Yerevan, Armenia Đ˘Đľl.: +(374 11) 20 10 06 event@operasuitehotel.com operasuitehotel.com

Baghramyan 1-st Lane 1-3, Yerevan, Armenia Đ˘Đľl.: +(374 10) 56 60 10 , +(374 11) 20 10 00 info@operasuitehotel.com, operasuitehotel.com

Table of contents 08 Armenia

Tourist information

22 Interesting

26 FACE

Kаrahunj… Zorats karer... Stones of soldiers or ancient observatory?

Mesrop Mesropyan: “My heroes are ordinary people in their natural habitat. They are the ones maintaining the country”

34 Museums Picture gallery of the city of Stepanakert

50 SIGHTS OF INTEREST Cathedral of celestial angels of the Zvartnots, Horomayr Monastery

62 Art

Alexander Mkrtchyan. City of the Artist

68 journey 75 TRAVEL GUIDE

Vinek. Back to the past

Embassies, Museums, Theatres, Stores, Banks, Clubs, Restaurants, Air companies

98 RATING

105 HOTELS

15 most popular tourist destinations in Armenia and in Karabakh

Executive director Georgy Khachatryan Deputy executive director Yelena Markosyan Editor in Chief Yelena Shuvayeva-Petrosyan +(374 91) 00 59 11, +7(985) 178 92 17 elena@armeniatourismmagazine.ru Project idea David Khachatryan Layout, design Margarita Babajanyan margarita@armeniatourismmagazine.ru Advertising director Director of the Yerevan office Anahit Gevorgyan +(374 91) 05 05 08 Lilit Hovhannisyan +(374 77) 09 51 03 anahit@armeniatourismmagazine.ru info@armeniatourismmagazine.ru Advertising manager Lia Kocharyan +(374 91) 35 78 53 sales@armeniatourismmagazine.ru Advertising manager Lilit Kostandyan +(374 95) 78 77 27 manager@armeniatourismmagazine.ru

Advertising manager Sargis mughumyan +(374 99) 55 54 32 sargis@armeniatourismmagazine.ru

Translator Zaruhi Grigoryan Photographs: Hayk Melkonyan, Mesrop Mesropyan, Yelena Shuvaeva-Petrosyan, Eugene Kim, Eduard Serobyan, Vahagn Grigoryan, Vadim Badalyan, Naira Niazyan, Robert Asatryan, Grant Dandurov, Archive of the Shirinyan family, archive of the Stepanakert Picture Gallery, archive of the Khachatur Abovyan Museum, photo Atelier "Marashlyan". Editorial Staff: Yelena Shuvaeva-Petrosyan, Lilit Hovhannisyan, Margarita Babajanyan, Anahit Gevorgyan, Lilit Kostandyan, Lia Kocharyan, Eduard Serobyan, Ekaterina Grishanova, Yelena Kolomoytseva, Yuri Navin, Artak Markosyan, Denis Aldohin, Elena Khachaturyan. News from сelebrities.ru, turist.am, calend.ru, ИА REGNUM, RIA Novosti, Get Treated, hetq.am, RIA News, Encyclopedia of “Hayazg” Fund, Armenia News - NEWS.am. Layout and prepress:

Printed in: “AST-Moscow Polygraphic House” OJSC 56 str. 22, Shosse Entuziastov, Moscow, RF Tel.: +(495) 748 67 20 “Tigran Mets” LLC 2 Arshakunyats ave., Yerevan, RA Tel.: (374 10) 52 70 56 The magazine is published every three months with a total circulation of 18.000 copies (in Russian) and 2.000 copies (in English): 8.000 copies in Armenia, 10.000 copies in Russia. The magazine is distributed free of charge in Russia and in Armenia: in tour agencies, restaurants, hotels, advertising agencies, embassies, ministries, libraries, companies, on board the trains of SCR. The magazine is available at “Armpress” kiosks (Armenia), in the supermarket chain “SAS” (in Armenia), at bookstores “Armenian book” Exhibition Hall "Armenia" at the VDNH Exhibition Centre), in the "Armenian Book" stores (Exhibition Hall "Armenia" at VDNH and “Armenia” store (in Moscow). The price is open.

Magazine “Armenia Tourism”: Mass media certificate of registration ПИ № ФС77-58404 as of June 25, 2014 issued by Federal Service for monitoring compliance with mass communications and cultural heritage protection law of RF.

118 CUISINE New Traditional Fish Triad. Performance of Armenian fish

The publisher is not responsible for the content of advertising materials. The publisher doesn't accept any submissions. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the publisher. If you are interested in distribution of the magazine in your city please contact us at: info@armeniatourismmagazine.ru Publisher: Baghramian Str., Building 1, 0019, Yerevan, Armenia Tel./Fax: + (374 60) 75 75 90 16c9, 2nd Yuzhnoportovy passage, 115088 Moscow, Russia Tel./Fax: +7 (495) 788 83 89 info@armeniatourismmagazine.ru www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

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Editor’s note

Editor in Chief Yelena Shuvayeva-Petrosyan

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Winter has been protracted and cold this year, both in Armenia and in Russia. Needless to say, in a couple of months admiring the snow fairy tale gave way to fatigue. In the sunny Yerevan, people counted how many days they had lived without the sun: 30, 40, 50... The winter seemed endless, but it just seemed so... And now, we greet you, the sun and spring. Armenian mythology has brought to us a story about a magical bird that symbolizes the awakening forces of nature, beauty and harmony. The name of this bird is Hazaran Blbul, which in Armenian means “a thousandvoiced nightingale”, and she lives in the Ararat valley. They say that the bird is small in size, wears bright plumage and sings more loudly than anyone. Her voice awakens all: the beasts that had been cursed by witchkakhards, withered gardens and valleys that are covered with flowers of the mountain. This mysterious bird never had an offspring, but when it reached old age, it burned right in the nest, and from the ashes there appeared the chicken Hazaran Blbul. Where Hazaran Blbul sings, there is a lot of light, warmth, kindness, happiness, love and prosperity. All this can be seen with one’s own eyes, if in the spring one visits the fabulously beautiful Armenia. Yes indeed, it is just like that – bright, sunny, juicy, multicolored, as it was portrayed by the artist Martiros Saryan. Spring is an ideal time to visit Armenia and enjoy the gentle sun, flowering, fragrance and panoramic views. And in the spring, we will celebrate the 4th anniversary of the magazine, we will take part in a number of exhibitions, including MITT, and we will tell you a lot of interesting things about the small country of Armenia that is very rich in its natural, human, cultural and historical resources. The harbinger of spring, Hazaran Blbul, is already singing for you in the Ararat valley! Welcome!

Northern Avenue 5, Yerevan, Armenia +374 11 850950 www.tsiranicomplex.am

Armenia Official name: Area:

Coat of arms:

Flag:

Capital city:

Republic of Armenia The total area is 29, 743 km2 (11,484 sq. miles), which is one tenth the size of the historical Armenia. Armenia is a landlocked country located in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, in the north-east of the Armenian Highland, called the Historical Armenia. Located between the Black and Caspian Seas, the country is bordered by Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkey. On April 19, 1992, the coat of arms of the First Republic of Armenia was restored (1918-1920). The authors were Alexander Tamanyan, an architect and an academic of Russian Academy of Arts and Hakob Kodjoyan, an artist. The national flag of Armenia consists of three horizontal bands of equal width, red on the top, blue in the middle and orange on the bottom. Yerevan

Safety:

Yerevan can easily be considered as one of the safest cities in the world. Late at night you can walk around in the city without any fear. Not many European countries can boast the same thing. If you are in Yerevan for the first time and you don’t have somebody to help and do not even have a map, you don’t need to worry. The inner city isn’t too big if not considering its suburbs and further out districts. The city center is surrounded by an amphitheater of hills and the streets basically start from the Square and run across the outer circular boulevard. There are many options for transportation, such as mini-buses, buses and taxies, all of which work non-stop. But the beauty of Yerevan is such that it is well worth taking a walk to see. And if you get lost, the passers-by will help you to find the right direction. Fortunately, almost everyone in Yerevan speaks Russian and it isn’t too hard to find someone who speaks English.

Language:

The national language of Armenia is Armenian. But the majority of the population also speaks Russian. You may occasionally face language problems in remote countryside. English and French are often second languages spoken by the younger generation, but the older generation is more conservative in regards to foreign languages. But in any case if a foreigner approaches them he will be understood and told the right direction. Those who speak Russian will not have any language problems in Armenia.

²´ Government:

President: Prime Minister: Population:

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Politics of Armenia takes place in the framework of a semi-presidential representative democratic republic whereby the president is head of state – and of a multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Serzh Sargsyan (born June 30, 1954 ) Karen Karapetyan (born August 14, 1963) According to various sources, the number of Armenians in the world is from 6.5 to 11 million people, of which only one-third live in the Republic of Armenia (more than 3 million people).

192 Antarayin str., Yerevan, Armenia Теl.:+(374 11) 440 144 www.facebook.com/cascaderoyal www.cascaderoyal.am

Uniqie location (with amazing panorama on yerevan and Ararat mountain) •

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Restaurant, loundge bar, cigar bar, terrace, wine house •

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Reservation one day before

Armenia Currency:

Armenian Dram (AMD). The small coin is called “luma”. One Russian ruble equals 8.3 Armenian drams. Coins in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 and banknotes in denominations of 1000, 5.000, 20.000, 50.000 and 100.000 drams are in circulation.

Currency exchange:

Currency may be exchanged in numerous foreign exchange offices around the city. Trade in stores and in other points of sales is done only in dram, the national currency. You will not have any problems with currency exchange as you can exchange it without a passport. Almost all hotels, stores and restaurants accept credit cards (Visa, Master Card, American Express) often charging a commission fee for banking operation. Working hours of the banks: 9.00-17.30, Monday to Friday. Foreign exchange offices are open on weekends and holidays working till midnight.

Internet domain: Calling code: Time zone: Major cities: Electricity:

.am +374 GMT+4 Yerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzor Voltage - 220 Volt, frequency - 50 Hertz.

Religion:

The predominant religion in Armenia is Christianity. 94% of the population are followers of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Armenia was the first nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD. In 2001 the country celebrated the 1700th anniversary of Christianity in Armenia.

Topography:

The terrain is mountainous; 90% of mountains are more than 1000m above the sea-level. The average height above the sea level is 1800 meters, the highest point is Mount Aragats (4095 m) and the lowest is the gorge of the river Debet (380 m). The greatest distance from the northwest to the southeast is 360 km, and from the west to the east it is 200 km. The highest point of the region and the historical symbol of Armenia is mount Ararat (5165 meters), which is in Turkey’s territory since 1920s.

Climate:

The climate in Armenia is highland continental with long, cold winters and hot summers. The temperature in January ranges between -12 0C and -15 0C (100F-23 0F), and sometimes it may be as low as -30 0C (-22 0F). In July the average temperature in mountainous regions is +10 0C (50 0F) and around +250C (77 0F) in flat regions. The yearly amount of precipitation ranges between 20-80 cm (8-31 inches).The highest mountain tops of Armenia are covered with snow all year round.

Visa:

In accordance with intergovernmental agreement on mutual visa-free travel, citizens of the Russian Federation do not need a visa for visiting Armenia. All you need to have is your international passport. An entry visa is required for all other nationalities.

VISA

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Welcome to the first DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Yerevan. The convenient location of the exquisite hotel in the center of the capital of Armenia guarantees convenient access to the business and entertainment centers of Yerevan. The luxurious, chef's restaurant "Gold" offers a delicious assortment of dishes of Italian, Mediterranean and Armenian cuisine. Being one of the leading hotels in terms of the number and area of conference halls in Armenia, DoubleTree by Hilton Yerevan City Center offers many opportunities to hold meetings and events for up to 300 guests; it is ideal for business events and gala dinners.

4/2, Grigor Lusavorich str., 0015, Yerevan, Armenia │ Теl.: +(374 11) 555333, Fax: +(374 11) 553 355 еvnye.hotel@hilton.com │ www.yerevancitycentre.doubletree.com

Armenia Children:

Transportation:

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In Yerevan it is not common to try and flag down a personal car to get a ride. Instead you should always use taxi services. Taxies in Yerevan are readily available and are quite inexpensive. Mini-buses operate one after another and all you need to do is to raise your hand for them to stop. Simply stop the bus number you need and go to the desired destination paying 100 drams. Meanwhile, it is much easier to use taxi services since they are plenty in Yerevan. Tourists very often complain about one shortcoming of Yerevan - the bad traffic. The city wasn’t initially designed for so many cars, buses and taxis and that’s why the streets are often overloaded.

Stores:

Stores in Armenia offer a wide range of various souvenirs and gifts including the famous Armenian cognac. The favorite place of guests interested in buying Armenian souvenirs is the open-air fair called Vernisage which is located next to Republic Square. During the weekend there you can buy cheap goods, such as handmade carpets, wonderful pieces of carved wood and stone, ceramics, paintings and graphic works of Armenian artists.

Food:

You can eat anywhere in the city. Every 100 meters you can easily find a fast food place, a cafe or a restaurant. And if you are in the center the distance is down to 10 meters. You can find virtually any cuisine of the world: Armenian, Arabic, Georgian, European, Chinese, etc., but be careful as prices may vary significantly. In general you can have a good and tasty meal in Yerevan and pay much less than you would in Moscow.

Water:

You can drink tap water in your hotel room, apartment and in the street out of small fountains (Arm. “tsaytaghbyur”). These are unique stone memorials, usually one meter high, running pure, tasty Armenian water. Just walk right up and have a refreshing drink. You can buy bottled water in any grocery store. All brands are Armenian.

Emergency numbers:

While travelling with children you will need: - birth certificate of the child; - international passport of the child or the child shall be registered in the passport of the parent; - in case one of the parents is not traveling with the child, a power of attorney by the other parent shall be present.

MES FIRE POLICE AMBULANCE AIRPORT RAILROAD INFORMATION TELEPHONE DIRECTORY INFORMATIOIN WEATHER Armenia Directory (yell.am) YEREVAN JUR

911 101 102 103 187 184 109 186 8778 185

Dates April 4 Tumanyan Days For several years, Yerevan has been celebrating the days of the great poet Hovhannes Tumanyan. “Every poet must first of all be the heart of his people,” Hovhannes said, having proved this by his example. Tumanyan's days start every year on the 4th of April. Students celebrate this day by staging Tumanyan's fairy-tales. Tumanyan's readings, professorial scientific reports, student reports and stagings in various languages are produced. The events end on April 11 (on April 11, 1923 the ashes of the poet were committed to the earth). On this day, at the monument to Hovhannes Tumanyan, teachers and students recite his poems and journalistic works, paying tribute to him. April 7 Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin. Day of Motherhood and Beauty According to biblical writings, on April 7 guardian angels informed the Mother of God that she would have a baby in 9 months. Hence this day is the Annunciation Day. From time immemorial this day has been celebrated in Armenia and the Armenian diaspora as the Day of the Woman, Mother, Beauty and Spring. In modern Armenia it is a national, but not an official holiday. On this day, men give gifts to their mothers, wives, sisters, beloved friends. April 16 Surb Zatik – Holy Easter in Armenia This is the day of the bright Easter holiday in Armenia. The Armenian word “Zatik” (Passover), is probably derived from the word “azatutyun, azatvel” (freedom, to be liberated) and means deliverance from suffering, evil and death. While greeting each other on Easter, Russian Christians say: “Christ is risen!” – “Indeed he is risen!” And Armenian Christians say to each other: “Christ is risen from the dead!” – “Blessed is the Resurrection of Christ!” April 24 Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day On April 24 every year in Armenia and in the Diaspora this is the day to commemorate the victims of the Armenian Genocide. Since the late 19th century, the mass extermination of Armenians began in the Ottoman Empire, and then in Turkey, lasting several decades. The Armenian Genocide was organized by Turkish rulers with the support of imperial Germany and with the connivance of Western countries. Professing the ideas of regressive pan-Turkism and pan-Islamism, the Turkish authorities aspired not only to preserve the Ottoman Empire and to forcefully destroy or assimilate the population, but also to create a Pan-Turanian empire, which would include all Muslims. May 25 Hambartsum – Ascension of Our Lord in Armenia Ascension of the Lord – Hambartsum –was established as a holiday in Armenia in IV-V centuries and is celebrated on the fortieth day after Easter. It is based on the gospel story of how the resurrected Jesus Christ called the apostles on the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem and commissioned them to preach the gospel in all the world: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

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Yerevan, Armenia



5/1 Griboyedov str. (Entrance from Komitas Ave) Теl.: +(374 10) 20 70 70



6/24 Northern Ave. Теl.: +(374 10) 50 01 55

www.roly.am info@roly.am www.facebook.com/ROLYclub

Roly is a complex consisting of a lounge-style cafe, and two cinema clubs. Here you can taste Armenian, Italian and Mexican dishes as well as enjoy a variety of cocktails and other beverages. Our friendly staff will provide you with a warm welcome and an unforgettable experience.

Dates May 26 Sardarapat Battle Victory Day On May 26, Armenia marks a memorable date – the Victory Day in the Sardarapat battle. The Sardarapat battle took place in the years of the First World War (1914-1918), on May 21-28, 1918, on the one hand between regular Armenian military units and citizen soldiers, and on the other – Turkish invaders into Eastern Armenia. The battle took place near the railway station of Sardarapat, close to the town of Hoktemberyan. After the victory of the October Revolution of 1917 in Russia, the Russian troops left the territories of Western Armenia, occupied during the First World War. Taking advantage of this, the ruling circles of Turkey intended not only to seize again Western Armenia, but also to occupy Eastern Armenia and the entire South Caucasus. Breaking the truce, concluded in December 1917, the Turkish troops went on the offensive and occupied the cities of Erznka, Erzrum, Sarikamish, Kars, and on May 15 – Alexandropol (Gyumri). The 100,000-strong Turkish army of Wehib Pasha was opposed by a 20,000-strong Armenian army, consisting of soldiers and officers armed with rifles and machine guns of the old Russian army. The same was the number of militiamen and soldiers of the auxiliary troops. Colonel Daniel Bek-Pirumyan commanded the troops. The victory in the Sardarapat battle was of great importance for Armenia. On May 28, 1918 the Republic of Armenia was proclaimed. In honor of the victory in the Sardarapat battle and the defeat of the Turkish army on May 26, 1918, a memorable date was established in Armenia, and on the 50th anniversary of the battle, in May 1968, the architectural ensemble Sardarapat was opened (near Yerevan), designed by the architect Israelyan. May 28 Republic Day in Armenia Every year on May 28, the citizens of Armenia celebrate the state holiday – Republic Day, which is a day off in the country. The second name of this holiday is the Day of Restoration of Sovereignty. On May 28, 1918 the independence of Armenia, which had been under the yoke of different conquerors for more than six centuries, was restored.

How

to call to

Armenia?

For fixed lines: 8 – dial tone - 10 - 374 - (destination code) - (subscriber’s number) For mobile phones: + 374 - (destinations code) - (subscriber’s number)

Ararat region Artashat Vedi Ararat Masis

235 234 238 236

Aragatsotn region Ashtarak Talin Aparan Tsakhkahovit

232 249 0 252 257 0

Armavir region Armavir Echmiadzin Zvartnots Baghramyan Vache Norakert Jrarat Khoronk Hoktember Metsamor Baghramian Myasnikyan Qarakert Dalarik

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237 231 231 231 90 231 91 231 95 231 98 231 99 237 237 233 233 74 233 75 233 76

Vayots Dzor Eghegnadzor Jermuk Khachik Arpi Aghavnadzor Areni Malishka Yelpin Rind Shatin Vayk

281 287 281 51 281 91 281 93 281 94 281 95 281 97 281 98 281 99 282

Tavush region Ijevan Berd Noyemberian Koghb Dilijan

263 267 266 266 268 0

Gegharkunik region Gavar Sevan Martuni Sarukhan Vardenis Chambarak

264 261 262 264 269 265

Syunik region Kapan Sisian Goris Verishen Khndzoresk Kajaran Meghri Agarak

285 283 2 284 284 284 94 285 286 0 286

Shirak region Gyumri Akhuryan Arapi Kamo Ashotsk Amasia Maralik Sarnakhbyur Shirakavan Ani Kayaran Artik Pemzashen Panik Arevshat Mets Mantash

312 243 00 243 00 243 00 245 246 242 242 91 42 93 242 97 244 244 244 92 244 95 244 96

Viva-Cell MTS - 93, 94, 98, 77 Beeline - 43, 91, 96, 99 Orange - 55, 95, 41 Kotayk region Hrazdan Abovyan Mayakovski Kamaris Balahovit Aramus Arzni Ptghni Geghashen Kotayk Tsaghkadzor Lernanist Bjni Charentsavan Alapars Arzakan Eghvard Nor Hachn Nor Geghi Zovuni Proshyan Argel

Lori region 223 222 222 90 222 91 222 91 222 93 222 94 222 96 222 97 222 99 223 223 91 223 98 226 226 75 222 72 224 224 224 224 52 224 53 224 54

Vanadzor Lernapat Margahovit Pambak Yeghegnut Dzoraget Lermontovo Vahagni Spitak Alaverdi Tashir Stepanavan

322 322 94 322 96 322 93 322 95 322 97 322 98 322 99 255 253 254 256

Nagorno Karabakh Stepanakert Martakert Hadrut Askeran Shushi Kashatagh Martuni

471 474 475 476 477 477 32 478

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24 Saryan str., Yerevan +(374 60) 540 007 +(374 60) 530 007 +(374 99) 533 007

WHY FOR TO ARMENIA? Armenians have a very capacious and interesting word - “why for”. It cannot be considered a neologism, for it consists of the stems of two completely modern words – “why” and “what for”. So, why for do tourists and travelers go to Armenia? But why not? Armenia is, like cognac, old, but fragrant, matured, amber-magical. True, it is not for everyone, but for the chosen, and thus – the dear people who, having once visited this country, will never be strangers, for they will feel a kinship with the people, land, history, culture... Indeed, there are many reasons for traveling To Armenia, and the author of these lines does not yet know how many of them will be singled out, but let it be known – there are really more reasons. And you will tell us about this when you come to Armenia for the second time.

The first reason is the contact with antiquity, culture and history, monuments and, of course, the soul's rest in the foothills of the grey-haired Ararat. It is necessary to see the temple of the 1st century A.D. in Garni, dedicated to the God of the Sun, to visit the rocky monastery of the Spear – Geghard; the monastery at the foot of Ararat – Khor Virap, where Christianity started in Armenia in IV century; the monastery of Noravank, hidden among the red rocks, and many other temples. To see the Armenian capital – Yerevan, which is considered older than Rome by 30 years. Acquaintance with Yerevan must begin with the fortress of Erebuni, which was built in 782 B.C., then visit the Historical Museum, the Yerevan History Museum, the Picture Gallery, etc.

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It's worth visiting Armenia to get acquainted with the art of the famous film director Sergei Parajanov, the artist Martiros Saryan, the composer Aram Khachaturyan and others. In the Museum of Russian Art you can see the collection of Professor Aram Abrahamyan, featuring Russian painting, graphics and scenography of the late XIX and early XX centuries. The Cafesjian Center for Art, i.e. the Cascade, which has 572 steps, 302 meters from the base to the observation deck, presents the works of the following artists and sculptors: Grigor Khanjyan, Fernando Botero, John Altun, Marc Chagall, Arshile Gorky, Andy Warhol, and others. To swim in the high-mountainous Lake Sevan, which Armenians call nothing more nothing less than a sea – the Geghama Sea. To visit the peninsula on Sevan with its monasteries. To visit the village of Noraduz nearby, which is famous for khachkars of XIII-XVII centuries: the oldest one dates back to V century. And, of course, to try Sevan trout (ishkhan), whitefish and blue crayfish. To heal with the curative mineral waters in the resorts of Jermuk, Aghveran, to visit the wooded resort of Dilijan and to drink the water, which “takes the second place in the world after San Francisco” (remember, the protagonist of the film “Mimino”, played by the actor Frunzik Mkrtchyan, said this).

Find us online at: www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

And also: to fly on the “Wings of Tatev” – the longest cable car in the world over the deep Vorotan canyon. The Armenian cuisine – tolma (dolma), harissa (a kind of porridge with chicken or lamb meat), khorovats (shish kebab), ajapsandal (a vegetarian dish), spas (yogurt soup), tabouleh (a vegetarian dish), gata (pastry or sweet bread) and others – will be a treat even for the spoiled gourmets. Fruits and vegetables grown on clean and rich earth, clean air, clean water – straight from the tap ... yes, in Armenia, everywhere you can drink tap water ... and in Yerevan streets, straight from small fountains – isn’t this alone a sufficient reason for coming?

Have you ever seen how authentic Russians live according to old rites? In Armenia, you will have such an opportunity if you visit the Russian Molokan villages – Fioletovo and Lermontovo. I personally have never seen more Russian people and traditions anywhere else. The Armenian people are very open, hospitable, friendly: they will be fond of you, will feed you, strike up a conversation, will make friends with you, and you will come to Armenia every year.

Of course, the Armenian cognac, the golden age of which began in XIX century, still maintains its reputation, and Armenian wines made from Areni grape have a history dating back more than 5 thousand years. Oh yes! Armenian jazz, which began to develop since 1920, is a special and interesting story: it can be enjoyed in many clubs in the capital. Those are the Malkhas Jazz Club, Poplavok Jazz Cafe, Mezzo club, etc. Besides, in Armenia you can listen to the magic duduk – the pipe made from apricot wood. Jivan Gasparyan made this instrument famous. And recently the duduk was included in the list of the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.

One of the most important aspects is understanding, and in Armenia they will understand you in your native language: the majority of Armenians know Russian and English well. In recent years, medical tourism is widely developing in Armenia, famous for its medical specialists. Armenia, 90 percent of the territory of which is located at an altitude of 1000-1500 meters above sea level, attracts climbers to the four-peaked Aragats – the highest point of the country – 4095 meters, or to the various rocks. And what is more: since 2017, Russian citizens can travel to Armenia by internal Russian passports, which is also an important reason that has made the Armenian land more accessible for visits. Why for are you not in Armenia yet? Ah, already bought a ticket! We are waiting for you! :-)

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KARAHUNJ … ZORATS KARER … STONES OF SOLDIERS OR ANCIENT OBSERVATORY?

In Armenia, there are a lot of mysterious, I would even say, mystical places; one of them is Karahunj. Another name for it is Zorats Karer. Those interested in the history of ancient civilizations, must visit this plateau of stone warriors. Karahunj is located in about 200 km from Yerevan, near the city of Sisian (Zangezur region).

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Живопись Interesting

arahunj ... Some people draw an analogy with the English monument – the world famous stone megalithic structure-cromlech Stonehenge. Perhaps there is a connection, but no one has proved it, so we will only turn to those data that are known reliably. This historical monument is located on a mountain plateau at an altitude of 1,770 m above sea level and covers an area of more than seven hectares on the left bank of the gorge of the Dar River, a tributary of the Vorotan River. Zorats Karer – the name translates as “Mighty Stones”, “Stone Army”, “Stones of Warriors” – consists of more than three hundred vertically set large stones with reach-through holes in the upper part. The time of the monument is disputed. Some researchers attribute the monument to the V millennium B.C. and call it an observatory. For the first time, the archaeologist O. Khnkikyan and the astronomer E. Parsamyan started talking about the astronomical purpose of the monument in the 1980s. Other scientists believe that on the plateau in the III-II millennium B.C. there was a round sanctuary, in the center of which was a burial mound with stone walls and a roof, surrounded by vertically spaced monoliths on the earth. Scientist Paris Heruni suggested that there might be a cult or astronomical purpose of the monument and undertook four scientific expeditions (1994-1997) in the days of equinoxes and solstices. He measured the size of the monument, conducted a detailed topographic survey, determined the geographical coordinates, magnetic declination of the site, the closure of the horizon, the azimuths and corners of the holes in the stones. During the sunrise, sunset and culminations of the Sun and Moon in the days of the equinoxes and solstices, a survey was conducted. As a result, it was concluded that the monument could have had a triple purpose: a) the temple of the Sun God AR – the supreme God of the ancient Armenians; b) an extensive and highly developed observatory equipped with stone instruments that allow measurements to be made with an accuracy of up to 30 seconds of the arc (or 2 seconds of time); c) a university. The monument was built more than 7,500 years ago (that is, 3,500 years

before Stonehenge) and operated for 5,500 years. In 2004 Paris Heruni published the book “Armenians and Ancient Armenia”, in which he put forward his hypotheses and described in detail the results of his expeditions. The etymology of the other name of the monument – Karahunj –was written about in 1985 by the astronomer Elma Parsamyan, linking the complex with the village of Karahunj in the same Zangezur region. The name of the village was divided into parts “kara” (“stone”) and “hunj” (hunj = punch, that is “bouquet”). It is significant that in a radius of 20 to 90 kilometers there are three villages with the name Karahunj. But there is one more version: “hunj” or “hunch” is translated also as “voice”, “echo”, “sound”, actually the name “Karahunj” can be translated as “speaking stones”. The Armenian historian Stepanos Orbelian in his work “The History of Syunik” (XIII century) mentions the village of Karundzh near the city of Syunik / Sisakan (modern Sisian) and translates the name as “stone treasure” or “fundamental stones”. Of course, further careful study of the monument by different specialists is necessary. Interestingly, such structures can be seen in some parts of Europe – from the Black Sea coast to the coast of Ireland, and everywhere they remain a mystery and require research.

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Lori Мода

“Tezh Ler”:

when nature heals

Armenia is a mountainous country, and 90% of

its territory is at an altitude of more than 1000 meters above sea level, 11.2% is covered with forests, of which 8% of the area is covered with pine trees. And as you know, pine is one of the oldest medicinal plants. The pine forest attracts people with the magic scent of pine needles and has an inexhaustible curative power. Walking here is very useful for health, especially for those who suffer from respiratory diseases. From pine cones and needles, wonder-working products are prepared – honey from the buds, as well as tinctures, decoctions. In Armenia particularly the Lori region is rich in pine forests. It is here, inside the pine forest, that the holiday house “Tezh Ler” is located. The incredibly beautiful forest in the area is favorable for rest and relaxation and attracts with the invigorating coniferous aroma. But did you know how useful the pollen of the blossoming pine is? No?! Read about it below. Pollination in the pine forest begins in midMay and lasts until mid-June. Since ancient times it is known that pine pollen combines the properties of food product and medicinal product. It contains about 200 pure, natural, biologically active nutrients: antioxidants, vitamins, natural enzymes and amino acids, which contribute to the improvement of the body. Pine pollen has a huge range of medicinal properties. It stimulates immunity, possesses blood-purifying properties, lowers cholesterol, and prevents kidney and liver diseases. Also, pine pollen is called a panacea for diseases of the bronchopulmonary system. Pine pollen can GATE 24

heal the gravest cases of tuberculosis, while the resin has been used for a long time to strengthen the gums, teeth and for fighting against various inflammations of the oral cavity. Pine pollen is also used in cosmetology. Since the pollen contains antioxidants, vitamins, biovitamins and other important substances, this product can be found in a number of face masks, as well as in creams and scrubs. It is irreplaceable, because it has an excellent ability – the development of new cells and the prevention of aging. It is not for nothing that this period in the rest house “Tezh Ler” is the most in demand among those who want to combine business with pleasure: people go to rest and be treated with a simple folk remedy – pine. Closer to nature means, healthier and more beautiful. For the convenience of visitors, there are paths in the forest, as well as benches and hammocks, so that guests can enjoy the blossoming nature and breathe the pine air. Welcome to “Tezh Ler”!

24th kilometer of the Dilijan-Vanadzor highway, Armenia Đ˘Đľl.: +(374 91) 925 999, +(374 94) 925 999 info@tezhler.am www.tezhler.am

MESROP MESROPYAN: “My heroes are ordinary people in their natural habitat. They are the ones maintaining the country” GATE 26

face Mesrop, your first personal exhibition took place recently. It seems that you prepared for it for a long time and treated it very responsibly. How exactly was the exposition chosen, in which thematic sections? Thank you, I'm glad that you noticed my responsible approach. First of all, the theme of the exhibition is Western Armenia and everything connected with it calls for thoughtfulness. This is a sacred topic for Armenians, “halftones” are unacceptable here, and uncertainties are excluded. The level of responsibility is extremely high.

Secondly, which is also important, it was my first exhibition. Whatever I do next, this is my starting point. All subsequent exhibitions will somehow be compared with the first one. And this also required a certain responsibility. Regarding the selection of photographs, I will not make it a secret, it was not easy. As a result of the two trips to Western Armenia in 2013 and 2014, I had about 500 photos, of which 26 had to be selected based on the capacity of the Narekatsi Art Institute, where the exhibition was to take place. The architecture and nature of Western Armenia are unique, beautiful. But I want to emphasize that my goal was not to convey to the viewer a simple statement of this truth. I wanted to achieve an awareness of what we used to have, what we lost and how it happened. To stop for a moment and think: “How do we live, what do we do? And, most importantly, what

should we do, so as not to lose our present Armenia one day?…” The exposition was selected based on this. I hope I managed to achieve just this kind of awareness. When did you first learn about the existence of such a profession as a “photographer” and how did you become a photographer? Generally, should a photographer learn the profession or is it an inner gift? It all started with the fact that my parents gave me, an eleven-year-old boy, a “Smena” camera for beginners with devices for developing films and printing photos. We then lived in the beautiful city of Kirovakan (now Vanadzor). My father introduced me to his friend, the famous Kirovakan photographer Artavazd Sirakanian, who became my first teacher. Uncle Arto, somewhat reminiscent of William Saroyan, opened the world

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The photo of photography for me. And I fell ill with this world, I photographed everything. Time passed, I changed my “Smena” for the advanced “Zenit ET”. Then something happened that often happens with teenagers: other interests appeared, and photography faded into the background. Nevertheless, it did not disappear, but waited for my return. And not in vain. In 2012, one day, I decided that I should start taking pictures again. I just woke up in the morning with this decision. I got a new camera and in parallel, started theoretical training. At the same time, I decided to take the courses of the photographer Vahan Stepanyan. During one of the workshops I met the photographer Hayk Melkonyan, who later became my teacher and friend. Back to your question, I will answer: of course, this is a gift. But that is not sufficient. The profession needs to be learnt, you need to “nourish the gift,” if I may say so. But the paradox of photography is that the more you learn about it, the less you know about it. By the way, the ingenious Czech photographer Josef Sudek said:

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“I photograph because I do not know how to do it yet. If I could, I would stop.” I completely agree with him. What does your art live on? How do you think photography develops in Armenia? I hope that [it lives] on love. In any case, that is how I want everything to be perceived. I love nature in all its forms, I love architecture, our ancient history, stones, flowers, trees ... Everything that surrounds us. It is precisely this feeling that I'm trying to convey through my photographs. As for the development of photography, the age of smart phones and gadgets has changed a lot. Universal accessibility has played a cruel joke, it has lowered the bar. Now almost everyone considers himself a photographer. But selfies, belfies or “oh, look what I'm eating right now” have nothing to do with the art of photography. Those are, rather, momentary “consumer goods”. In this regard, I am for pure art, pure photography. And we in Armenia have something to be proud of in that respect. Trends will appear and disappear.

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“For many years I have cherished the idea to recreate a cozy atmosphere, where everyone can feel at home. Having put my soul and passion into every element of design and the menu, I tried to convey the positive aura and warmth of the family hearth, characteristic of the Armenian people. Our original dishes are prepared with a special love by my family members and a superb chef, surprising the guests with a very familiar, yet fresh and delicate taste of traditional Armenian dishes. Sincerely yours, Gabriel Karapetyan”. Tumanyan str., apt. 21/1, Yerevan Теl.: +(374 11) 21 21 11 info@highrest.com, highrest.com

Whereas the names of, say, Hayk Melkonyan, Emma Marashlyan, Suren Manvelyan, Hakob Berberyan, Martin Shahbazyan and others – unfortunately, one cannot list all of them – will always remain in the history of Armenian photography. Nowadays, landscape photography and national color are gaining momentum. What do you think this is connected with? Probably with national self-awareness and understanding of the importance of preserving nature. We begin to appreciate what we have. And that is wonderful. These two components of one whole are the most important factors of our national self-identification. Mesrop, tell us about the characters of your photos. Who are they? What did you want to say through them? Until recently, I shot only nature and architecture. Accordingly, they were my characters. But now I'm interested in the genre of the portrait, it opens new worlds. My heroes are ordinary people in their natural habitat. They do not and cannot have glam, only natural charm and wisdom, the experience of past years, naiveté, shyness and sincerity... They are Armenia, these are the people maintaining the country. The Armenia of the photographer Mesrop Mesropyan – let me call you so – what is it like? It is imbued with Charents poetry. Beautiful. Sometimes sad and thoughtful, simple and complex. Steadfast and stubborn. The only one. GATE 30

Gyumri Мода

About the Black and Red Fortresses, Armenian-Russian honor, fame and friendship plan for the construction of a grandiose fortress, the greatness of which still amazes everyone who sees it. And exactly one year later, the Russian Tsar himself arrived in Gyumri and in his presence, one can say with his blessing, the foundation of the fortress was laid, and the city of Gyumri was renamed in honor of his Alexandra Feodorovna. The post turned into a major strategic center of Russia in the Caucasus, a castle-fortress; and it still fulfills this role. In 1853-59 in Alexandropol the new military fortification “Northern Fort” (“Small Fortress” OLD ALEXANDROPOL (NOW GYUMRI) IS THE REAL with a red tower) was erected, as well as the full PANORAMA OF THE WAR OF XIX CENTURIES AND THE PROOF OF THE RUSSIAN-ARMENIAN FRIENDSHIP armament of the fortress, which by its defensive AND COMMON VICTORIES. ability could be attributed to the 1st class. Prior to the last Russian-Turkish war of 1877he Russian history in Gyumri begins with the 78, Alexandropol, in its geographical position distant 1804, when after the accession of Georgia and strategic importance, represented a very to Russia, in the province of Shuragel (Shirak), a important stronghold on the southern border of military garrison was placed. As the researcher Ivan South Caucasus, which blocked the movement Semyonov writes in the book “Russians in the History to Tiflis and served as the initial base for the of Armenia,” the Cossacks that were sent here offensive against Kars and Erzurum. With the founded a post in the neighborhood of the Armenian transfer to Russian possession of Kars and Batum, village of Gyumri on the border with Turkey. the aforementioned role of Alexandropol, as an Throughout the history of the Caucasian wars, advanced fortification point, was lost, and it was the post in Gyumri played the role of an advanced renamed in 1887 from a fortress of the 2nd class military bastion. So, in November 1804, a Russian to a fortress-warehouse. detachment led by the first chief of the garrison The fortress of Alexandropol was not subjected of Russian troops in the city of Gyumri, General to an enemy attack and siege, but it is a monument Sergei Tuchkov, defeated the Turkish troops of to the glorious victories of the Russian troops that Abbas Mirza. were here in 1804 over the Persian troops, and in In 1807, Russian troops under the command 1807, 1828, 1853 and 1878 –over the Turkish troops. of General-Field Marshal Ivan Gudovich defeated Not far from the fortresses is the Hill of Honor, the Turkish army of Yusuf Pasha. In 1809, at the on which Russian officers who died during the approaches to the city of Gyumri, the Russians Russian-Persian and Russian-Turkish wars were defeated the Persians. In 1809, the Persians were buried. In 2010, the Presidents of the two countries defeated by the Russian troops near the city of – Armenia and Russia – opened a memorial Gyumri. complex there. It was from Gyumri that in 1827 General Paskevich went to the liberation of Erivan, Nakhichevan, Kars, Erzerum and other cities. As the history says, in 1834, Emperor Nicholas the First approved the draft plan for the construction and equipping of the garrison of Russian troops in Armenia, and in 1836 – the

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F I S H

F A R M

CHERKEZI DZOR

R E S T A U R A N T

1 Karmir Berd, Cherkezi Dzor, Armenia, Gyumri Теl.: +(374 99) 01 15 20, +(374 312) 38259 red-fort@mail.ru www.gyumrifish.am

Picture gallery of the

city of Stepanakert Contact Information: Address: 6 Sasuntsi Davit Str., Stepanakert, Phone: +374 47951307 Email: step.picture-gallery@mail.ru Facebook Page: Художественная галерея Степанакерта/ Ստեփանակերտի Պատկերասրահ

Picture-gallery of Stepanakert Working hours: In winter: Tuesday - Sunday, 9.00-18.00 In summer: Monday - Sunday, 9.00-18.00 Break: 13.00-14.00 Director - Elena Dadayan

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T he gallery of the city of Stepanakert has been functioning since

February 1982. In connection with the military actions in NagornoKarabakh in 1992, its activities were suspended. After a long break, in July 2001, the Stepanakert Art Gallery resumed its work, being located in the Hall of the Stepanakert Mayor’s Office, on the ground floor. In September 2013, the gallery was allocated a new space, with a total area of 400 square meters, consisting of two floors (two exhibition halls). On the territory of the gallery there are two workshops of artists and sculptors of Artsakh. On October 12, 2013, the official opening of the new premises was held, an exhibition of works by Artsakh artists on the first floor and a personal exhibition of Sargis Baghdasaryan, a native of Artsakh, on the second floor was organized.

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Museums

In the Stepanakert Art Gallery various exhibitions of paintings and sculptures, applied art exhibitions, photo exhibitions, seminars, lectures, workshops, etc. are organized. The Picture Gallery cooperates with all unions of artists of Artsakh and Armenia. Exhibitions of artists from Armenia, Russia, CIS countries and foreign countries are organized. Also there are exhibitions of paintings and sculptures of the fund of the Picture Gallery. The fund consists of more than 400 paintings and sculptures.

In a year you can see 1520 exhibitions in the gallery. Those who wish, can organize exhibitions in the Picture Gallery of Stepanakert.

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Architecture Мода STEPANAKERT IS LOOKING AT THE WORLD

THROUGH THE EYES OF ARCHITECT

ARAM SHIRINYAN

...

December 26, 2016 marked the 110th anniversary of the birth of the architect Aram Shirinyan (1906-1988), thanks to whom the architectural style of Stepanakert was formed, and the provincial town was transformed into the modern capital of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. It was he and his co-workers and like-minded people who strived for Stepanakert to become a worthy capital of the Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast (Region), sometimes having to overcome the resistance of the authorities of the republic, in which Karabakh found itself against its will. Aram Shirinyan's childhood and youth were spent in Baku. After graduating from the Azerbaijan Construction Institute in 1933, he worked as an architect in the Architectural Planning Department of Baksovet and later in Bakproekt, having developed in that period about ten author's projects for the improvement of residential areas, streets and buildings of this city. In 1944, Aram Shirinyan was assigned to the city of Stepanakert for permanent work as the head of the Department for Construction and Architecture under the regional executive committee of the NKAO and remained in office until 1974. Below you will find an excerpt from the essay “Trace on the Ground” about Aram Shirinyan, about his appointment and the first buildings under his leadership in Stepanakert. The essay is written on the basis of archival materials, recollections of his sons and grandsons, and also those of his colleagues.

n 1944, grandfather had to choose between going to work either in the war-ravaged Stalingrad or Chisinau, or in the provincial Stepanakert. The scales of these cities and the volume of the work existing there were incommensurable, and the reasons that prompted grandfather to move to Stepanakert and to accept, as it later turned out, this fateful decision, are very prosaic – to be closer to the home that awaited the return of his younger brother from the war. Stepanakert at that time was a small onestorey city, which was given the status of the capital of Nagorno-Karabakh. All that the Soviet government had managed to do before the war was to build two schools, several two-storey administrative buildings and a city hotel, where the newly arrived grandfather was accommodated. He was appointed as the Head of the Department for construction and architecture of the region, or, more simply, the chief architect of the region. From then on, for more than thirty years, everything to be designed and built in GATE 38

the city, and in the whole region, would be carried out either by him or under his leadership. But that was to come later. In the beginning, everything looked very ordinary – the war had imposed a strict imprint of restraint on everything that happened in the country and especially in the peripheral town. The construction of civilian buildings at that time was out of the question – all the forces were directed to the front, to victory. When, after the war, the region first received permission to build an apartment building in Stepanakert, grandfather, on his own initiative, developed a three-storey building project. Right as he was presenting it for primary approval in the office of the Head of the region, an unpleasant conversation took place. “I'm telling you that we will not get such money,” the latter told him, following the decree from Baku to build exactly a two-storey building. He clearly did not want to run into any scandals and demanded to remove one storey.

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“Maybe we can try and obtain permission for it,” grandfather said calmly, ignoring the unfriendly tone. “Three storeys are not too much of a thing, and for a growing city it is more correct to develop a promising project. And, in the end, if the authorities do not like the idea of a three-storey building, let them reject it themselves. Why do it instead of them? “This is sabotage,” the head of the region roared the word that was fashionable at the time, threatening even to fire grandfather in case any further trouble arose in connection with that construction. “Do it as I said, and only then go for approval!” the boss concluded the conversation, annoyed at this quiet and incomprehensible architect. ...My grandfather held his ground. He did not like dilettantism and was stubborn, especially when it came to his beliefs and work, into which he had put his soul. On his part, everything had been done according to the rules and conscientiously. In addition, he had the right to his vision of how the city should develop, and was not breaking any professional authority. After thinking over everything with passion once again and weighing all the pros and cons, grandfather did not redraw anything and, collecting all the necessary documents, went alone to defend his design. Two weeks later, grandfather appeared at work as usual, unperturbed, carrying a tube with drawings in his hands: “Well, have they approved it?” the boss asked favorably, guessing with some sixth sense that everything was in order. “I told you, redraw it, and there will not be any questions. Show me what you have there.” Imagine his surprise when grandfather unfolded before him the original draft of a three-storey

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Architecture Мода ONE OF HIS FIRST BIG PROJECTS WAS THE RESTORATION OF THE STEPANAKERT DRAMA THEATER AFT. MAXIM GORKY. MONUMENTS OF STEPAN SHAHUMYAN, BOGDAN KNUNYANTS, NELSON STEPANYAN AND OTHERS WERE CONSTRUCTED BY HIS DESIGN, PARKS AND PUBLIC GARDENS WERE SET UP, NUMEROUS HOUSES AND RESIDENTIAL COMPLEXES WERE BUILT IN THE CAPITAL OF NAGORNO-KARABAKH AND THE TOWNS OF THE REGION. A. SHIRYNYAN'S OTHER LARGE WORKS INCLUDE THE PROJECTS OF THE STADIUM AND THE CENTRAL SQUARE OF THE CITY OF STEPANAKERT– THE GOVERNMENT TRIBUNE, THE OBSERVATION PLATFORM AND THE PEDESTAL OF THE MONUMENT OF V. LENIN.

house, allowed for construction. He immediately appreciated the outstanding talent of the “unperturbed” architect and his perseverance and ability to fight for his ideas to the end. Other postwar constructions by grandfather include the nomenclatorial monument to Stalin and the first government tribune. The statue of the leader was installed in full height on a high pedestal, in a small circular park, nicknamed by the people as “Pyatachok” (patch). More like a picturesque garden, it was founded before the arrival of grandfather and represented two rings of greenery around an ornamental pool. The white-stone Stalin stood directly at the central entrance to the park, in his overcoat, his hands behind his back. A small tribune with a through frontal arch, resembling a trapezoidal shape, was built literally across the street, almost opposite the monument, and it turned out that the people standing on the platform saw the leader in

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front of them, who in turn looked down on them, slightly inclining his head. Such was the imperative of the time! For both of these constructions, grandfather was awarded honors, and after a few years, they were demolished... A little later, Stepan Shahumyan’s monument, designed by grandfather, was erected in Stepanakert. It was installed on the same Pyatachok, only this time, at the entrance to the city. Before that, there had been a gypsum sculpture of a sportswoman – a hammer thrower, nicknamed by the townspeople as the “Girl with the Grenade”. Later on, flowerpots and benches were set, the flower beds were embellished on the Pyatachok... Now this original park, next to the square, with the beautiful fountain in the center, is the face of the city. The mysterious Stepan Shahumyan still greets those arriving, and on the site of the demolished monument to Stalin a pine has grown – stern, tall and prickly...

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Hrant Danduroff:

“There are more than 3000 plant species in Armenia, about 500 of them are suitable for food, as medicines and “tea” drinks” Armenia is a mountainous country, rich in fragrant and useful herbs. No wonder they say here that the most delicious meat is on the bones, and the most delicious herbs – on the stones. Although... umm... my present interlocutor is a vegetarian and obviously will not like this saying. Indeed, today we will go on an exciting trip with the tea master and owner of the tea studio “Halabyan” in Yerevan, Hrant Danduroff, who will tell us about the traditions of tea drinking in Armenia and herbs growing in this country.

Hrant, what kind of tea traditions in Armenia are there? The tea tree does not grow here, but there are many herbs... Yes, indeed, only the shrub, or the tree of Camelia Sinensis (Chinese Camellia) can be called tea in the strict sense and in Armenia it does not grow, cannot grow. We by tradition or by habit call tea everything that can be brewed and drunk. GATE GATE42 8

But we have a lot of useful and tasty herbs. Moreover, due to unique climatic and natural conditions, our herbs are the best in the region, and maybe in the world. Few people know that in Armenia there are more than 3000 plant species and about 500 of them are suitable for food, as medicines, and also as fragrant and tasty “tea” drinks.

HL nese tea art “Kungfu Cha” is emerging in Armenia. I hope that soon it will become even more popular. Are historical facts preserved on when tea ceremony was popular in Armenia? What did the kings drink after the bathhouse, while resting in the fortress of Garni? We are now engaged precisely in the collection of those facts. So far, nothing is known about a tea ceremony, similar to the Chinese one. But there is information that almost 5000 years ago in Armenia there already existed a ritual of mountain herb worship. By the way, the appearance of tea in China dates back about the same time. That is, in Armenia there has always been a special attitude towards plants and herbs. Some traditions have been preserved in villages and among healers. With us, herbs are not only used as cure or are drunk for pleasure, but are also actively used in food. Since the middle of the last century, black coffee has been widely used in Armenia. What was before that? Historians believe that before that Armenia was after all a “tea” country. Of course, they used to drink drinks out of mountain herbs, and black tea – according to the Russian or IranianTurkish tradition.

Therefore, there are two tea traditions: the one that has been preserved, mainly in the villages, regarding the herbs that one can drink for certain kinds of ailments, or simply drinking various mountain herb mixes. And the second, Russian-European tradition – when they brew a very strong tea, then dilute it with boiling water or milk with sugar or lemon. I would not even talk about the tradition of drinking teabag teas... Thanks to several enthusiasts and my students – tea masters – a new tradition of ChiFind us online at: www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

HL It is known from ancient sources that our herbs have always been used, both as beverages and as medicines, and even there has been a pagan festival of worshiping mountain plants. For example, out of Urts (thyme, Thymus) they made drinks and also burned it in the temples. Hayk Nahapet (Patriarch), after the battle with the Titan Bell, healed his wounds with an infusion from various mountain herbs. Right now we are engaged in gathering knowledge about the ancient Armenian tea tradition. Hrant, by introducing tea traditions of other countries in Armenia, and developing them with Armenian herbs, you are creating new traditions. Can one say so? Share your ideas on how to bring Armenians back to tea and turn them away from coffee? It's more correct to say that now we are reviving the Armenian tea tradition, and I want Armenian tea to become a new symbol of Armenia, so that tourists are offered not only our hearty and tasty national cuisine, but also the correctly and beautifully made Armenian tea. I already have several students who treat good Chinese and Indian tea in several places in Yerevan. And many of the people who tried real tea, forever gave up tea in sachets, coffee or harmful fizzy drinks. Everything is gradually changing... Nevertheless, I would not speak harshly about coffee. This is also quite a useful plant. It is important to know the measure and the rules. For example, drinking quality coffee, and not in the morning, but after dinner. What tea does the real Armenian soul like? It would be nice to first understand what a real Armenian soul is! I will assume that I have one ... Well, I like quite diverse teas. For me, tea is a tool, a method and a path that can be used to achieve good goals. For example, when you need to cheer up and concentrate, you can drink a good black Chinese Hung Cha. If we want to relax during a meeting with friends, we drink half-fermented Tieguanyin. I love Shen Pu-erh... Often, when we go camping around our beloved and majestic mountains, I take along Armenian herbs. They are good to drink, also GATE 44

mixed with black, for example, Georgian teas or in pure form. Many of our herbs are good in the evenings, both for soothing and relaxing. What is your favorite Armenian mix? Recently, I really like our Ziziphora (Urtsadaghdz) and Cephalaria (Ghantapâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;a, Zivan). And what about the useful tea out of seabuckthorn, which is common in Armenia almost at all seasons? Sea buckthorn is a valuable source of vitamins. And in our region near Lake Sevan, closer to autumn, you can already buy this berry in pure form or ground with sugar. From it you can make compotes, tea, you can drink it cold or use as jam with black tea. Ever since childhood, I remember how my mother and grandmother prepared sea-buckthorn for the winter. Which herbs growing in Armenia would you advise tourists to take with them? Firstly, I would advise buying Armenian herbs in specialized tea shops, if in Yerevan. Or, if in villages or in the market, from people that you intuitively like. It is important that the technology of collecting and storing mountain tea is followed, and no less important is who makes this tea. Ask for urts (thyme), daghts (mint), nana (peppermint), khnkatsaghik (origanum), urcadaghdz (ziziphora), ghantapâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;a (cephalaria). Try out various herbs, brew and trust your intuition.

Tasty, calm just like home “Garnitun” is your home in Garni. This is the verbatim translation of the name of the restaurant and hotel complex, to which we invite you. “Garnitun” is located in one of the most ecologically clean and picturesque areas of Armenia – Garni. The incredibly beautiful mountains, rich forests, deep rivers and clean air, the real village life, not spoiled by modern times, are the invaluable riches of our recreation center in Garni. “Garnitun” offers you workshops on cooking lavash, a tour of the symphony of stones and jeeping.

The recreation center offers a beautiful panorama to the gorge of the Azat River and the historical monument surrounded by vineyards – the pagan temple of Garni, which is the only monument of the Hellenistic era in Armenia.

8 Marzpetuni Str., Garni, Kotayk region, Armenia Теl.: +374 (96)06 04 70, +374 (91)20 27 57 info@garnitoun.am www. garnitoun.am

Мода celebrities

Khachatur

Abovyan ‒ the Danko of Armenia

hachatur Abovyan (October 15, 1809 - April 14, 1848) combines in one person the Armenian culture, literature and – Man. The founder of modern Armenian language, modern Armenian literature, folklorist, ethnographer – and an ardent patriot. For his native land, he was willing to sacrifice the chief value, which is given to each person only once – life. Khachatur Abovyan can be compared with the altruistic Gorky hero, Danko, who tore his heart from the chest so that it would illuminate the path to the people whom he was leading in order to save from enemies. Khachatur Abovyan is the Danko of Armenia and at the same time – a luminary of universal human values. After all, what kind of person, who cares for the history of his family and country, is indifferent GATE 46

to the suffering and concern for his native land, especially during hard times for the latter? Khachatur Abovyan poured out his grief and suffering for his homeland in the historical novel “Wounds of Armenia”, written in 1841. In the novel, Kh. Abovyan condemns the enemies – destroyers of the Armenian land, tormentors and oppressors of the Armenian people – with the flame of righteous anger: as mentioned in the work, their “cruel faces, that shudder at nothing” grin “like an arrogant beast”. And is there any hope in the novel for the Armenian people, powerless before the “cruel face” of this enemy? Yes there is. It is Russia: a powerful helper to the weak and the oppressed. The long-suffering Armenia believes in that, and like a balm on her wounds are the lines in the epilogue of the novel: “Let the beast be crushed and thrown down. The mighty hand of Rus shall be your support.” Khachatur Abovyan in his reflections on the ways of cultural development of Armenia made an emphasis on Russia and was familiar with some Russian writers, in particular – with the “father” of Russian romanticism Vasily Zhukovsky. In 1830-1836, Khachatur Abovyan studied at the University of Dorpat, and in 1833 Zhukovsky arrived briefly in Dorpat: the meeting with him is described in the diary of Abovyan.

The patriotism of V. Zhukovsky sparked bright admiration in the fiery, ardent soul of Khachatur Abovyan. “What blood, what joy bubbled in his personality, could be seen through his movements! What patriotism!”, that is what Kh. Abovyan wrote about Zhukovsky.

And, of course, having in common the thought about the human duty to one’s native land, V. Zhukovsky and Kh. Abovyan became friends and were in correspondence. The voice of the patriotic heart urged Khachatur Abovyan to do much for his native Armenia, so he not only created literary works and worked on language reform, but also actively engaged in cultural and educational activities, in translations of foreign literature, in geography, local history and ethnography. He believed that in order to do something for the happiness and benefit of the people, one must not only understand, but also be able to do many things. Therefore, he constantly improved not only in science and knowledge: he was also interested in simple labor.

www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

"Valmar Art Gallery" was founded in April 2004. The gallery presents paintings and graphic works of People's Artist of Armenia Valmar and his daughter, Hripsime Margaryan. Every year a new thematic show is organized, through which Armenian and foreign visitors can get acquainted with the creative development of the artist Valmar.

The Soviet biographer and literary writer V.A. Ter-Vahanyan writes about Kh. Abovyan as follows: “He perceived not only science. He, like all the early enlighteners, avidly absorbed everything that he considered vital for the people, everything that he intended to instill in his homeland: he studied glasswork, bakery, cookery, confectionery, and at the same time, diligently memorized the rules of decency.” Khachatur Abovyan denounced the arbitrariness and dishonor of the merchants, church authorities and secular officials, realizing that because of this arbitrariness the country lags behind in development, for the half-savage consciousness of the peasantry had become entangled in the web of ignorance. He, like the Russian philosopher P. Chaadayev, “did not learn to love his homeland with his eyes closed” and struggled, like the Danko of Gorky, to illuminate the dark path of his people. After the graduation from the University of Dorpat in 1836, Kh. Abovyan intended to open a seminary in Echmiadzin for the training of teachers, and

Welcome to "Valmar Art Gallery"

53-55 B. Buzand str., Yerevan, Armenia Теl.: +(37410) 580 769, +(374 10) 568 081 Моb.: +(374 91) 456 059 mhripsime@mail.ru www.valmargallery.com info@valmargallery.com www.facebook.com/ValmarArtGallery

celebrities

because of this, he had a conflict with the clergy that interfered with his intention. But in 1837, being the supervisor of the local district school in Tiflis, after all, he opened a private school, based on the principles of European pedagogy, for the training of national teachers. He also wrote textbooks on grammar (including Russian grammar, adapted for Armenians), arithmetic, history and geography. In 1843-1845, Khachatur Abovyan participated with German travelers in the physical and geographical studies of Eastern Armenia, prepared for the publication in Germany a collection of Armenian, Kurdish, Azerbaijani songs, independently examined the lands of the Kurds and described their peculiarities, customs and mode of life in German. In 1846, he prepared materials for the opening of the first study of local lore in Armenia, and in 1848 he was offered the post of director of the Nersisyan school in Tiflis: he left for there but was reported missing. April 14, 1948, the heart of the Armenian Danko â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Khachatur Abovyan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; stopped beating, but during 38 years he managed to do a lot for his country and for culture in general. GATE 48

The eternal light of his mind and heart remained in his writings, and in 1937 his museum opened, in his birthplace, in Kanaker. In Tartu, Sochi and Yerevan there are Abovyan streets, and to the north-east of Yerevan is the city of Abovyan. In 1922, the Armenian Pedagogical University was founded in Yerevan, which to this day bears the name of Khachatur Abovyan.

Grishanova Ye.V., Maxim Gorky Literature Institute (Moscow)

Horomayr Monastery Horomayr Monastery is perhaps one of the most mysterious places in Armenia, one of the hardest-to-reach and strongest in energy. Every time you go down between steep rocks or rise from below the gorge to this sanctuary, you think: what power did the monks possess for building a temple on this stone island, living here and every day following a route that today is beyond the strength of many people. And in the Middle Ages, the monastery was a spiritual center. l

Sights of interest he monastery is located in Lori region, near the Tvillage of Odzun. It consists of two groups of buildings

located on the left bank of the gorge of the Debed River and on the plateau. Horomayr was founded in the VII century: it is this period that the first written mention of the monastery refers to. The main church of Surb Nshan was erected later – in 1187. It was built by Zakar and Ivan out of the finely dressed basalt. On the facade above the entrance you can find an interesting high relief – the Virgin with the baby. Next to Surb Nshan church there is another church built in 1201, and a chapel beside it. It seems that these are old, but still quite strong hermits who, leaning against each other like this, are passing from century to century. Among other buildings on the territory of the monastery, the bell tower of 1290 was preserved; the chapel of the year 1301; ruins of the chapel Surb Arakel of the year 1216. Behind the monastery complex there is an ancient cemetery with unique khachkars of the XIII century. The monastery complex includes two more churches, one of which was built by the “varpet” (master) Grigor Kargorts in 1206, and the porch of white tuff between them. By the way, the monastery is built on the site of an older sanctuary belonging to the pagan period, and for sure – this place was chosen not in vain: our ancestors knew where to draw strength. In general, the Lori region is famous for its many spiritual centers – monasteries. Among them (in brackets the distance from Horomayr is given): Odzun Monastery, VI-VII centuries (2.4 km), the monastery of Kobayr, XII-XIII centuries (3.1 km), the monastery of Sanahin, X - XIII centuries. (5 km), the monastery of Karsnitz Mankato (7.4 km), the monastery Hnevank, VII century (9.7 km), the monastery of Haghpat, X - XIII centuries (9.7 km), the monastery of Bardzrakash X-XIII centuries (approximately 20 km).

www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

CATHEDRAL OF CELESTIAL

ANGELS OF THE

ZVARTNOTS In the encyclopedic reference book “The World's Greatest Cathedrals” by A. Yu. Nizovsky, the Armenian Cathedral of Celestial Angels – Zvartnots – has its special place. The cathedral of early medieval Armenian architecture, located near Yerevan and Vagharshapat (Echmiadzin), is popular with tourists. lii

Sights of interest

he construction of the Cathedral of Celestial Angels began in 641-643 and was conducted for twenty years. The construction of Zvartnots was initiated by Catholicos Nerses III the Builder, who invited masters from the ancient Armenian city of Dvin, famous for its beauty. No descriptions of Zvartnots survived, but it is known that it has received a lot of enthusiastic praise. According to a legend, the Byzantine emperor Constantine III, who visited Armenia in 652, was so impressed by the beauty of the cathedral that he ordered the architect of Zvartnots to go with him to Constantinople. On the way, the architect died, and only this fact prevented the construction of a similar structure in the capital of Byzantium. Specialists consider Zvartnots a daring experiment, the most daring centric composition in Armenian architecture. The composition of the cathedral was in a way reminiscent of Babylonian ziggurats – it was a threetiered round cathedral, consisting of three diminishing cylindrical volumes set off each other, topped with a spherical cone. In all forms of the cathedral, there was a powerful ascendancy. The Cathedral of Celestial Angels was given the name of Zvartnots not by chance. The word “zvart” in Armenian could also mean “decorated”. From the top to the bottom, the cathedral was richly decorated with sculptural reliefs – magnificent examples of Armenian medieval stone carvers. The intricate ornament framed the cornices, braided the window openings, and encircled the capitals of the columns. The walls of the cathedral were decorated with vines, pomegranate branches, bands of interlace, geometric ornamentations, decorative elements – palmettes and acanthus ornaments. The columns were completed with carved capitals, and the columns set next to the pylons, the main pillars of the cathedral, were crowned with images of huge stone eagles: these birds symbolized the ascension of the cathedral to heaven. Among the works of stone-cutters that adorn Zvartnots, sculptural belt images of people stand out: it is a whole portrait gallery. Under one of the bas-reliefs the inscription “Hovhannes” can be read. Some researchers believe that this is the name and portrait of the main builder of the cathedral. Zvartnots is a monument of the era of the greatest achievements of the Armenian national culture of the V-VII centuries. The impression made by Zvartnots was so great that they repeatedly tried to reconstruct the image of the cathedral both in Armenia and abroad. Today, on the site of Zvartnots, there is an archaeological reserve and a museum that opened in 1937. www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

liii

Yelena Kozhemyakina:

“I

chose

Armenia

as my home” Yelena Kozhemyakina is the promotion manager at “Marashlyan” photo studio, interviewer for RepatArmenia and Thinking Portraits. Together with Emma Marashlyan, she participates in the revival and preservation of the traditions of the country, which she considers her second home. Today Yelena Kozhemyakina is the guest of our magazine. Yelena, it is very pleasant that our friendly communication and creative tandem are aimed at the common cause – to tell about Armenia as broadly as possible, as lovingly as possible. At what age did you learn about Armenia? How did you find yourself on this land as an adult? The first acquaintance with Armenia, as with so many other countries, was still at school, at the lessons of geography. Many historical and cultural figures of the world are Armenians by origin, therefore, when you read their biographies, you get acquainted with the pages of the history of their homeland. Since the age of 13, Armenian boys and girls have appeared in my milieu: some understanding of traditions and everyday life arose through the communication with them. 7 years ago I moved to Armenia, marrying an Armenian. Over the past three years, “Marashlyan” photo studio has gone big not only in Armenia, but also far beyond the borders of the country. You too can be credited for this. Tell us about the project and how you found yourself in it? The photo studio has been around for 3,5 years, it is an absolutely unique author's project by Emma Marashlyan. Not every creative GATE 54

Interview impulse can develop into a successful business: you need to put your soul, emotions and time into it. The most valuable things. I learned about the project 3 years ago, when I came to a family photo shoot, deciding to make a New Year gift to my nearest and dearest. There were a lot of pleasant impressions, immersion into the image, the self-giving of the photographer – that immediately captivates with its sincerity. When I got acquainted with Emma, I wondered how a charming, fragile, but incredibly talented woman had taken on such a risk. Working with costume photo sessions is much more difficult than creating contemporary images. There are many restrictions, peculiarities of the props, as well as a huge responsibility. I came to the studio 1,5 years ago as a promotion manager, because the studio had the need to create new projects, additional services and a new benchmark for development was set. For me it was extremely interesting, since I am a lawyer and a rhetorician by profession, which allows me to conduct negotiations, protect copyright, and develop ideas for new projects. Today I'm glad that Emma is engaged in many author's photo projects, expanding her photographical compass, and the studio constantly adds new partners and friends for the popularization of the Armenian heritage and family values. We are a dynamic project, we plan to achieve new professional peaks. In the life of every woman, self-fulfillment is not in the last place. Do you feel fulfilled in Armenia? Can one live here after all, and not leave in search of, so to speak, a better life Abroad? It is a complex and controversial issue – what for every woman is self-realization. For me, any girl becomes a woman, creating a family and having children, that's how the feminine laid by nature is realized. It is the cult of family values that allows women to remain soft and feminine in Armenia. If we are talking about professional self-fulfillment, there are many free niches in Armenia, where active, purposeful women can show themselves. In Russia, I had a successful legal career, but it was in Armenia that I managed to try many related sectors from teaching at the Faculty of Law to journalism.

Lena, all Russian girls who found themselves in Armenia, are called, thanks to one remarkable film, “brides from the north”. Tell us, what is it like to be a bride from the North in Armenia? I was born in Latvia, so I am rather a northwestern “bride”. Being a representative of another nationality and culture in a mono-ethnic society is an ideological challenge. Upon arrival in Armenia, no one gives you a reference book on how to behave, what is right and what is not. You absorb a lot, with the years you filter what you need. I do not have Russian friends in Armenia: all of my environment consists of local and diaspora Armenians. If you want to live in Armenia, you need to know the language and accept the culture. Today I read and write in Armenian, and my daughter goes to an Armenian kindergarden. A lot of things inspire me in Armenia, there are things that I would rather change, but I chose Armenia as my home, so I accept the advantages and disadvantages. Do you have any favorite places in Armenia? Where do you usually have a rest? I live in Yerevan and it is not so often that I manage to go out to see the beauty of the country, but I do like Artsakh, its nature and people. I like to visit Tatev and Goris, they have a unique atmosphere and interesting architecture. A great place for recreation is Sevan – virgin nature and not far from the capital. Your advice and recommendations to those who decided to spend their holidays in Armenia. Armenia today has many interesting routes: from classical sights to individual tours. I recommend touring Yerevan on foot on one’s own – I did it myself, when I had just arrived: it's difficult to get lost, but there are many discoveries. For trips around the regions I advise you to take an individual tour with a personal guide: they will not only show special places, but will also introduce you to the cuisine, traditions and history. In Armenia, there are places for travelers of every taste: cathedrals, gastronomic tours, hiking tours, extreme recreation and much more.

Find us online at: www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

Yell Extreme Park – the best extreme entertainment park in Armenia Flight, freedom, adrenaline, laughter, a good mood, nature, the sky and unbelievable emotions! Air, with which you want to fill your lungs, and the friendly people who work and create an atmosphere of dreams – they are professionals in their business and can safely be trusted. The park is located on the slopes of a picturesque gorge in the dense forests of the Tavush region. The nearest settlement is the village of Yenokavan, the nearest hotel is APAGA Resort. The location of the park is not fortuitous. 15 years ago, it was here that a new kind of active recreation in the South Caucasus – horse tourism – was founded.

The best extreme activities in one place

The extreme entertainment park Yell Extreme Park opened on July 26, 2015. During the first year of operation, the number of park guests exceeded 10,000 people. Today Yell Extreme Park has flights on a zip-line and a paraglider, it is the largest rope park in the South Caucasus; it also features kiiking, paintball, off-road tours, climbing rock routes and horseback riding. The paths in the park are laid in such a way that they can be walked by the whole family, admiring the fantastic views of the canyon of the Khachaghpyur River. The number of attractions and amusements of the park is constantly increasing.

The longest zip-line in the world

In May 2017, the world's longest zip-line will open in Yell Extreme Park. The length of the new zipline will be 2.8 km, and the altitude – about 300 m. The flight duration is about 3 minutes, and the speed is up to 120 km / h. The longest zip-line of Yell Extreme Park is a great opportunity for those who like adventure and adrenaline. Every time we plan our trips, we want to discover new places and new emotions, and Yell Extreme Park is the best place for that.

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Richard Bona, who is also Bonoyan, about Armenia

1/3 28 Isahakyan str., 0009 Yerevan, RA + (374 10) 524 211 + (374 98) 206 206 info@mezzo.am www.mezzo.am

n the autumn of 2015, the world famous jazz bassist Richard Bona was a special guest at the annual jazz festival in Armenia. The concert was organized by the Armenian Jazz Association in conjunction with Mezzo Production. The audience in the crowded hall of the Sports and Concert Complex was simply amazed by the play and energy of the musician, his charming voice. And six months later, Richard Bona visited Yerevan for the second time in order learn more about Armenia, its history and culture. This time, he was a special guest in the framework of the annual international holiday – International Jazz Day, which is conducted jointly by the Yerevan Municipality and the Armenian Jazz Association. He arrived in Yerevan three days before the scheduled concert. “There is a great public in Armenia,” he says. He was touched that the audience knew his songs by heart and sang them with him. And so, Richard Bona came up with an Armenian surname for himself – Bonoyan. He came to the international jazz day, not only for the sake of music, but also to learn more about the history and culture of Armenia. During his last visit, he felt that he loved this country; he was impressed by the rich culture, fine cuisine, the friendliness of the people and the reverence for music. Geghard and the surrounding rocks impressed Richard with their stark beauty and grandeur. “Armenian monasteries are beautiful,” the musician noted. “They have wonderful acoustics.” And when he sang in the temple, he wanted to make a bed there for himself and stay until the end of his days. It is important for him that he became acquainted not only with the Armenian culture, but also with the history, as Armenian culture is a part of world history. “I do not know much about the culture and history of this country,” said the musician. “But what I know speaks about the greatness and courage of the country.” You are strong both spiritually and physically, and you have something to be proud of. ” Armenian musicians are real professionals, they play various musical instruments. Bona was impressed with the national instruments, and had a burning desire to learn how to play the duduk, promising that there would be room for Armenian motives in his new album.

Tsaghkadzor Marriott Hotel is located in the picturesque valley among the mountains and the forests in Armenia. The hotel complex provides everything for the unforgettable holiday (including pool and Hamam). Luxurious setting for relaxation and business meetings surrounded by primordial nature will make your stay in the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor an unforgettable pleasure. We are always happy to welcome you at Tsaghkadzor Marriott Hotel.

2, 4/1 Tandzaghbyur str., Tsaghkadzor Tel.: +(374 10) 29 41 41 mhrs.evntk.reservation@marriotthotels.com www.tsaghkadzorMarriott.com

reasons why Armenia attracts

medical tourists

Armenia is one of the oldest countries in the world, the first Christian state, which along with the modern progress of the Republic, managed to preserve its culture and traditions. According to Numbeo, the largest database in the world, Armenia assumes 20th spot in the rankings of the 118 safest countries worldwide. Guests of the country can go for a walk around the city at any time, without worrying for their lives or property. For medical tourists this country is interesting with its rich history, the provision of comfortable rest and high quality medical care.

Arsen Pinachyan

Head of the department of endoscopic and laparoscopic urology Clinic of Modern Surgery – CMS

Highly qualified Armenian specialists, professional service Professional doctors technique and a conscientious and modern approach to work provide a equipment perfect result in any medical service. Many medical companies invest huge sums in the purchase of state of the art medical equipment and in professional staff development. The introduction of Western management practices, the open and honest approach to the work help achieve the best results for each client. To confirm the quality of products, we require the manufacturer's warranty. Today, this system Quality also applies to medicine. The law Assurance “On the Protection of Consumers Rights” provides a range of legal means to protect their interests, and for many medical institutions the term “guarantee” is a huge responsibility.

13/4 Davit Anhaghti str., 0014, Yerevan, Armenia Теl.: +(374 10) 206103, +(374 93) 997975 info@cmsyerevan.am www.cmsyerevan.am

The department is engaged in the modern solution of a broad spectrum of tasks posed by problems of urology. Diseases of the genitourinary system are treated with modern protocols of conservative and surgical – including laparoscopic – approach. The highly qualified personnel handle the most complicated urological tasks.

The affordability and quality of health care is the key to success. Armenian specialists guarantee Maximum the best results. The affordability affordable of the prices is due to the financial prices structure of the Republic. To Armenian doctors it is of paramount importance to take care of the customer, regardless of geographic, economic, social, cultural or language barriers. According to international statistics: prices for medical procedures in Armenia are several times lower than in Russia, the US and Europe.

What does a contemporary person lack most of all? Time. The average statistics show Saving time that we spend 6 months of our lives in queues. Often, to get an appointment with the right doctor, you need to register a few months beforehand, but what to do if a problem requires an immediate solution? Many clinics in Armenia specialize in working with foreign clients, an individual plan for each patient is developed well before his/ her arrival. Help will be provided to your health in the shortest possible time. Saving time does not affect the quality of the result in any way, all medical procedures and interventions take place in accordance with the internationally accepted standards and protocols.

Taking care of the patient that is the main value of the Armenian clinics. Experts provide Individual not only medical, but also moral approach and support, showing respect, care, customer care patience and proper care for each client. Employees of many Armenian clinics provide 0-24 and 7/7 support for clients in treatment. Patients are constantly in touch with their personal manager. While receiving treatment here, you are provided with a truly individual approach. Even before your arrival, the whole team of specialists, ranging from your personal doctor and to the managers of the Support Service, are informed about what treatment you will have, how long you will stay and how to make your stay here not only useful, but also interesting and exciting.

Find us online at: www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

Unlike many countries, in Armenia foreign patient clinics do not have to spend a lot of Visa-free regime time and effort to apply for a visa, and customers can come for a free consultation with the doctor and for treatment on a facilitated visa regime. Visa-free entry into the territory of Armenia for a period up to 180 days in a year, applies to citizens of the European Union member countries, as well as countries having adopted the provisions of the Schengen Agreement. US and Canadian citizens can obtain a visa directly upon arrival in Zvartnots airport, in the hall of the customs control. For the citizens of the Baltic states and the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union (Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan) there is a visa-free regime.

28 Amiryan str., Yerevan 0002, Đ?rmenia + (374) 10 53 99 64 info@shoonch.com www.shoonch.com

CITY OF THE

ARTIST

Contacts of the Artist: www.facebook.com/ Alexander.mkrtchyan.98 E-mail: samanco@mail.ru Phone: +37491419736

GATE 62

Landscapes are painted by many artists. Portraits are made less often, but still quite frequently. But to turn the city into the sense of one's own creativity, the one and only – not every painter could achieve that. Rather, the artist, as a creator, craves for freedom, and he is unlikely to limit himself to the boxes of the city, no matter how beautiful they are. But this cannot be said about the artist Alexander Mkrtchyan, whose “star” has relatively recently ascended the artistic horizon of the Armenian capital. It was Yerevan that became his inspiration, the meaning of his creativity.

lexander Mkrtchyan was born in Yerevan and lived all his life in the same district. Before his eyes the city was growing, changing, transforming – new houses were being built, old ones were being destroyed. He often remembers the grandfather's house – a mansion opposite the Writers' House. Then Baghramyan Avenue was a street of mansions, there was a plan not to build high-rise buildings in the center, but the tendencies of our time have despised this, human greed has prevailed. Little Sasha together with his brother sent boats along the creek in the grandfather's garden, played ball in the street ... Already then, Alexander, in whose family the grandfather, grandmother, uncle and aunts were all architects, paid attention to the facades of buildings, bas-reliefs, the color of the finishing stone.

Art How many shades does the Armenian tufa have?! Probably a whole lot of them, if in the city you can see houses, covered with this porous volcanic rock, from gently pink, peach, terracotta to black ... So Alexander thought then. He was always keen on drawing – painting portraits and landscapes with oil paints, but he graduated from the Polytechnic Institute and worked as an engineer all his life. He returned to painting seriously and thoroughly, quite recently, about five years ago. The return was colored by the throes of searching for oneself, of his style, of his unique direction. At first, Alexander was carried away to abstraction. Then he realized it was not that the thing for him. He began to experiment with colors and texture. “My technique is that of relief,” says the artist. “I came to it by trial and error, being an engineer in specialty and thinking. First I applied the reliefs, then crumpled rice paper and pasted it, thus getting a textured surface, but then I realized that the lines got lost, the graphics faded. The texture is good, but the line disappears.” So he abandoned the paper and came up with his own method of finding relief, which can be seen in the immediate vicinity of the picture.

Find us online at: www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

Painting Alexander's first works were monochrome, black and white. But slowly color carried him to its own domain. “Of course, the mood also affects it, but you only realize it afterwards, when you analyze it,” the artist admits. “And when you work, the spirit of determination is important: you do not think about the color, it comes by itself, there is the concept of the fear of a clean canvas, you need to overcome the fear and make the first brush stroke ... If you feel that something is not right, it's better not to start it”. Yes, Alexander found himself in his city, and made the Armenian capital the sense of his creativity. He paints Yerevan, in which his childhood went by, and which is still loved, remembered and missed by several generations of Yerevan residents. “Yerevan has greatly changed,” says Alexander. “It is problematic to draw a building now – everything is hung with advertisements, billboards, posters, visors. We do not notice them anymore, they have become the norm for us, but the buildings behind them are completely invisible. The tasteless facade solutions, the facing of shops, the complete lack of an approach – architectural or aesthetic ... I try to bring back what used to be – I draw buildings without “decorations”.

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Currently Alexander works with those buildings that have survived to our days, but in his thoughts there is the idea of turning to historical materials and painting a number of buildings, which, so to speak, did not live up to our time. The first building that the artist wants to paint is the one with basreliefs, which once stood on Pushkin Street. It is difficult to paint a building so that it comes alive, has a soul: some of them turn out as drawings, some as abstractions, Alexander's houses live a bright life. They breathe love. The artist does not separate architecture from nature, in his works it is impossible to find bare buildings: there are always trees. As Alexander notes, the trees themselves are masterpieces, their branches, leaves – that is already art. But the artist tries to paint trees without leaves, or almost without them, so that they do not block the building. Therefore, in the paintings of Alexander Mkrtchyan there are only three seasons – spring, when buds have not yet blossomed, autumn, when the leaves have already fallen, and winter. Another interesting fact, Alexander names the pictures, linking them to the address, but sometimes there are romantic deviations, when you want to introduce some mood, then there are the “Eyes of the house”, “Wisdom”, “Dawn”, “Melody”, “Abovyan Str. Wind” and others. Alexander, despite the fact that at the moment he has had only two solo exhibitions and one collective exhibition, attracted a lot of attention to his work through social networks, where he posted photos of his works. And this is not surprising, because the Armenian Diaspora is very numerous and due to the history it is scattered all over the world ... and so the Armenians return to Yerevan, by plunging into the paintings of Alexander Mkrtchyan.

HOTEL & RESORT

If you are looking for a place for elegant rest and relaxation, welcome to hotel “Elegant”! Your stay in our hotel is the best way to forget about the everyday life and get closer to the nature. The hotel is located in a cozy corner of nature where you can enjoy the picturesque scenery of mountains and pure rivers. The hotel’s jewel is its garden with junipers, white cedars and acacias.

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11 Tandzaghbyur str., 2310 Tsaghkadzor Теl.: +374(60) 750 005, +374(99) 750 005 info@eleganthotel.am www.eleganthotel.am

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Im Sokhak Festival | May 19-21 Celebrating the beauty of this unique artform, Im Sokhak Festival aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Armenian choir music. The festival will take place in partnership with The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia, in May, in Gyumri. www.imsokhakfestival.com www.facebook.com/sayatnovafestival

Sayat Nova Festival | June 16-18 Sayat Nova Festival aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Sayat Nova and ashough (ashik) culture in general. www.sayatnovafestival.com www.facebook.com/sayatnovafestival

Tsovits Tsov Festival | July 10-20 Tsovits Tsov is an annual festival, which aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Armenian music. Launching the festival starting in Van and continuing across cities in Armenia and Artsakh, the festival will recreate the concept of â&#x20AC;&#x153;sea to sea Armeniaâ&#x20AC;? through music.

Gyumri International Duduk Festival | August 18-20 Gyumri International Duduk Festival aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Armenian duduk.

Sharakan Festival | September 22-24 Sharakan Festival aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Armenian sacred music. www.sharakanfestival.com www.facebook.com/sharakanfestival

Yerevan Duduk Festival | October 13-15 Yerevan Duduk Festival aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Armenian duduk. www.yerevandudukfestival.com www.facebook.com/yerevandudukfestival

Vinek back to the past

The author of the essay to be published Vadim Badalyan lives and works in the city of Sochi. He is the coach-teacher of the Youth Sports School No. 1 in Taekwondo (WTF) and senior coach of the Sochi Taekwondo team (WTF). His students repeatedly became winners and prizewinners of various competitions. In search of his ancestral roots through Armenia, he went to the village of Vinek in Iran, which he told about on the pages of “AT”. ince childhood, when I used to go to my grandSparents' on vacation every summer, I often heard

from parents and relatives, and they, respectively, from their parents and the older generation, about the tragic and heroic episodes of life in the history of the inhabitants of our village under the name of Arevshat, which was founded in 1832 and is located in the Hadrut region of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (Artsakh). Those were stories about what they used to do, how they used to live and arrange their way of life and culture. And most importantly – from where, why, and with whom had come to these places my ancestors Badal (the name of my great-great-grandfather, born circa 1790) and his son Hayrapet (born circa 1820)? And the history of the founding of our present village in Artsakh began when in 1829 about a dozen families, oppressed by the high taxes, the devalued labor and the impossibility to continue human life, some of them on foot, some on horseback, voluntarily left their village Vinek (Gharadagh, Persia) at night and went to the native and free Artsakh, crossing the Arax River. GATE GATE68 8

One of the teenagers that migrated was the little Hayrapet (my great-great-grandfather), the son of Badal. I would like to add that some residents of Vinek and other nearby Armenian villages of Gharadagh also moved to the interior of the country, to Tehran and Tabriz, and many remained in their villages and lived approximately until 1945-1960, gradually moving and leaving their native places. My ancestor Badal, from whom our surname originated, was born and lived in the ancient Armenian village of Vinek. There he was engaged in farming and cattle breeding, which in those days was the main trade. He was married to a girl named Dastagyul (our family descends from this name, in the villages of Artsakh people still refer to each other with the name and family name – for example, for Badalyan Yenok, they might also say – Dastagulyats Yenok (translated as “descendant of Dastagyul”). Badal and Dastagyul had a son, Hayrapet, and Hayrapet had seven sons – Movses, Poghos, Aghadzhan, Hambartsum (my great-grandfather), Petros, Mnatsakan and Badal. The youngest son was named Badal in honor of his grandfather.

journey After moving from Gharadagh and starting the family in a new place, Badal continued to trade and exchange goods between Artsakh and Gharadagh (Persia). He helped and maintained contact with all the relatives. That was close in territory and convenient: it was only necessary to cross the Arax River through Khudafer bridge. Already in old age, once again having gone from Arevshat to Vinek, he fell seriously ill and died, never returning to Artsakh. Badal was buried there in the village cemetery.

The village Vinek is located at 25 kilometers from the Khudafer Bridge in the Gharadagh Mountains (the province of Arasbaran, Persia (Iran).) At first, there were temporary buildings (barns) surrounded by fertile lands and forests: they were intended for storage and warehousing of cereals, beans and other food crops. Later on, in the place of dilapidated buildings, one of the several well-equipped and well-reinforced stone structures with a strong fortification wall was erected here – the castle-fortress bearing the name of merchant Harutyun Tumanyan (or as it is also called –Tumanyan’s Kantor). At that time, from 1603 to 1612, according to the decree of Shah Abbas, who ruled over Persia, from the gavars of Eastern Armenia and the melikutyuns of Artsakh, the Armenian population was forcefully and massively resettled in the districts of Gharadagh and other provinces of Persia. Shah Abbas resettled them with the aim of devastating their native lands and increasing the population of Persia with industrious and skilled Armenians for the rise of agriculture, construction and cattle breeding. This is how the parents of Badal came to Vinek (Persia). Their family, together with the rest of the villagers, was displaced from an ancient settlement in the area called Erhani Tak (Dizak, Artsakh). By the way, all that remains of the cemetery and the church (Hangats Yeghtsi) in the Erhani Tak, has still been preserved and is located near our present village Arevshat.

So I had the opportunity to realize my dream and see the homeland and the place where my ancestors, numerous relatives and, most importantly, great-great-grandfather Badal had lived. And so, I'm heading to Vinek ... Arriving by car with my driver and new friend Abbas-agha to the intersection, we made a turn and a few minutes later we were on the road, that took as along its winding route. Picturesque mountain landscapes delighted the eye. In my head, there was a constant comparison with Arevshat in Artsakh. I was amazed by the wealth of nature of this part of Iran – dense forests with fruit trees, numerous and deep-water springs and rivers, rich fields with cereals and much more. Before entering the village, I noticed a large, fortress-like structure called Kantor, or Emaarate Tumanyans. It is located on a hill in the very center of the settlement. The structure is surrounded by a high fence with watchtowers with loopholes. It used to belong to the Tumanyants brothers.

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Iran

In my childhood, I often heard stories that in the very center of the village there is a stone spring built by Armenians and a large two-storey building with a fortress wall by the Tumanyants brothers. And this was by far not the only “residence” of the merchant brothers in these places. Above the village on the mountain was the church of St. Hovhannes, resembling the Hangats Yeghtsi (Extinguished Church) in Arevshat, and below, Emaarat-e Tumanyans – a cemetery with Armenian tombstones and inscriptions, images from the life of the deceased, patterns and khachkars. We drove up to the fortress. The thought flashed through my head that I had come to my own, that I was not a guest. To the left of the entrance there were two large Armenian letters on the wall, on the right – 1907. These were the initials of Harutyun Tumanyants. The fortress was used as a trading house and a warehouse for goods. The Tumanyants family was equated with the Iranian Beks and owned several Armenian villages in Gharadagh. They founded trading houses, oilfields, cotton gin manufactories, dry fruit factories and shipping companies in Baku, other industries and concessions in Iran. The Tumanyants brothers were friends with the Shah Muzaffaraddin Shah Qajar. During his first trip to France, he stayed at their house in the center of Baku. The Shah was very pleased with the reception and courtesy of the women and daughters of the Tumanyants family. Then His Majesty’s court photographer Rostomyan presented him with a photo album with photographs of the Tumanyants house in GATE 70

which he had been staying. After the revolution, some of the brothers and their descendants remained in Baku, and the rest, including Harutyun and Sarkis, left for France and are known under the name Toumaniantz. One can add about the Tumanyants’ that the son of one of the brothers, that of Zakaria Tumanyants, Yervant Zakharia Tumanyants became a famous architect in France; one of the streets in the French city of Calais bears his name. It was evident that the fortress was also defensive in nature. From the fortress there was a beautiful view of the fields and forests, as well as the lowlands of the Arax River with the mountain forests behind it. Below the fortress was a rural cemetery, where we went after a tour of the fortress. I approached each stone, trying to read the years and the names of the buried. Some of the stones were so old that the inscriptions on them could not be deciphered: one could only discern some Armenian letters. Then we went to the village to the spring to examine the remaining ruins of the Armenian houses. ... I washed myself and drank the cold spring water, filled the bottle to take this particle of the motherland of my ancestors with me – for my parents. Abbas noted that the spring was built in the Armenian style. “Imagine, here it is, the spring, and here it is, the village of your grandfather Badal,” he told me. “Badal cheshme – the spring of Badal, Badal kendi – the village of Badal”.

Set in the center of Yerevan city, this elegant hotel features a spacious garden with swimming pool and sun loungers, a fitness center and free on-site parking. The modern, soundproofed rooms at Best Western Congress Hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar and air conditioning. All rooms have free internet access and a bathroom with hairdryer. Raffaello restaurant at Best Western offers Italian and international cuisine. Guests can dine and enjoy drinks on the sun terrace, overlooking the pool. Spa facilities at the Congress Hotel include a hot tub, sauna and traditional steam bath. Massages can also be booked. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Republic Square and the Armenian History Museum, as well as Hanrapetutyan Hraparak Metro Station. This is our guests' favorite part of Yerevan, according to independent reviews. 1 Italiayi str., Yerevan, 0010, Armenia Đ˘Đľl.: + (374 10) 59 11 99 Fax: + (374 10) 52 22 24 sales@hotelcongressyerevan.com www.congresshotelyerevan.com

Iran Мода

... We got into the car and moved to the church of St. Hovhannes, which was above the village and had a striking resemblance to the church of the Hangats Yeghtsi, located, as I said, near our present village in Artsakh, which, of course, is not surprising, because Armenians, on leaving places where they had been living, tried to restore the old way of life at the new place. A man was walking along the winding, dusty road. We stopped to ask how to get to the church. He asked where the guest was from, and gladly offered his help. After he found out that I was a descendant of the Armenians living here, he asked what the name of my ancestors was, and then told me that the last Armenians who left the village were the Asadur family. Having risen on the mountain slope, we stopped near the church of Surb Hovhannes. At the entrance on the arch there was a large inscription in Armenian. I asked once again to be photographed here too – against the background of the entrance to the church of St. Hovhannes and the arch with the inscription. And, surprisingly, upon arrival home, they translated for me part of the inscription, the three words: “Son of Padal (Badal) Harapetn (Hayrapet)”. I found another mention of the name of Badal and his son Hayrapet, which is also indicated on the family tree compiled by me with the help of my father and numerous relatives. They translated for me other words too from the inscription on the arch, in which several other male names are mentioned, the word maghdesi, designating persons who had made a pilgrimage GATE GATE72 8

to the Holy Land of Jerusalem and had visited the Sepulcher, as well as the words Tapananav, that is, “the ark, the boat”, and Matur – “chapel”. Entering the church, I saw on the right two ancient tombstones with Armenian inscriptions, as well as several wooden beams set against the wall, apparently out of the roof. In the village of Vinek, in addition to the Surb Hovhannes church (erected in 1881), there is also the main church of St. Gregory the Illuminator (erected in 1885), as well as that of St. Mary's. I caught myself on the sad thought that soon my visit here would be over, and it would be time for us to move on. During the whole trip I was lucky to meet and see many hospitable and good-natured people, whom I will always remember. The friendly and beautiful country of Iran with an amazing history. I am grateful to fate for bringing me together with the kind and sympathetic people and of course for the opportunity to visit and see all this. God willing, I will come back...

Tora Palace

Hotel “Tora Palace” is located within a 10-minute walk from the Opera House and the Republic Square, in the small center of Yerevan along prestigious residences and embassies on Marshal Baghramian Street, near the American University of Armenia, within only a 15-minute drive from the International Airport “Zvartnots”. It features an outdoor swimming pool and newly renovated rooms with air conditioning and furniture. Rooms at the hotel “Tora Palace” are decorated in modern style. All rooms, including “luxury” rooms, have large windows, an LCD TV-set, a minibar, a working desk, a private bathroom and toiletries. The guests will enjoy friendly service and attentive staff. The reception of the hotel can arrange a tour or car rental for you. Free parking is provided. 4 Proshyan str., Yerevan 0019, Armenia Теl.: +374 11 44 00 09, +374 96 44 00 09 info@torapalace.com www.torapalace.com

TRAVEL GUIDE

Zvartnots

Horomayr Monastery

Аrmenia SIGHTS OF INTEREST 1. Karahunj ....................................................... 22 page 2. Horomayr Monastery .................................. 50 page 3. Zvartnots ..................................................... 52 page

Кarahunj

Embassies

Üáñù è»½Ç¹»Ýë

ARGENTINA

LITHUANIA

BELARUS

UAE

Address: 9/1 Baghramyan str., 9 apt., Kotayk reg. Arindz vill. Tel.: + (374 10) 61 00 53 armenia@mfa.gov.by www.armenia.mfa.gov.by

BULGARIA

Address: 16 Sofiayi str., Nor Aresh Tel.: + (374 10) 45 82 33 Fax: + (374 10) 45 82 33 secretarym@abv.bg

BRAZIL

Address: 1 Northern ave. Tel.: + (374 11) 50 02 10 Fax: + (374 11) 50 02 11 brasemb.ierevan@ itamaraty.gov.br www.ierevan.itamaraty.gov

GREAT BRITAIN

Address: 34 Baghramyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 26 43 01 Fax: + (374 10) 26 43 18 enquiries.yerevan@fco.gov.uk www.ukinarmenia.fco.gov.uk

GERMANY

Address: 29 Charentsi str. Tel.: + (374 10) 52 32 79, 52 45 81 Fax: + (374 10) 52 47 81, 58 65 91 info@eriw.diplo.de www.eriwan.diplo.de

GREECE

Address: 6 Demirchyan str. Tel.: + (374 11) 53 10 51, 53 80 51 Fax: + (374 11) 53 00 49 gremb.ere@mfa.gr www.mfa.gr/armenia

GEORGIA

Address: 2/10 Babayan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 20 07 38, 20 07 42 Fax: + (374 10) 20 07 38 yerevan.emb@mfa.gov.ge

EGYPT

Address: 6a Sepuh str. Tel.: + ( 374 10) 22 67 55, 22 01 17 Fax: + ( 374 10) 22 64 25, 27 82 13 egyemb@netsys.am

INDIA

Address: 50/2 Dzorap str. Tel.: + (374 10) 53 91 73, 53 91 74 Fax: + (374 10) 53 39 84, 53 91 75 hoc@embassyofindia.am www.indianembassy.am

IRAN

Address: 1 Budaghyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 23 49 83 Fax: + (374 10) 23 00 52, 23 29 52 iranamb.evn@mfa.gov.ir www.iranembassy.am

Address: 2/13 Babayan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 29 76 80 Fax: + (374 10) 29 76 81 amb.am@urm.lt

Address: 2/2 Babayan str. Теl.: + (374 11) 777772 Fax: + (374 11) 777773 uaeyerevan@emiratesembassy.am

POLAND

Address: 44a Hanrapetutyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 54 24 91 Fax: + (374 10) 54 24 96 erewan.amb.sekretariat@msz.gov.pl www.yerevan.mfa.gov.pl

RUSSIA

Address: 13a G. Lusavorchi str. Tel.: + (374 10) 56 74 27, 54 52 18 Fax: + (374 10) 56 71 97 info@rusembassy.am www.armenia.mid.ru

ROMANIA

Address: 15 Barbius str. Tel.: + (374 10) 27 53 32 Fax: + (374 10) 22 75 47 erevan@mae.ro

SYRIA

Address: 14 Bagramyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 52 40 28, 52 40 36 Fax: + (374 10) 54 52 19, 52 90 23 syrim_ar@intertel.am

USA

Address: 1 Amerikyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 46 47 00 Fax: + (374 10) 46 47 42 webmasteryerevan@state.gov www.usa.am

TURKMENISTAN

Address: 52 Yerznkyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 22 10 29, 22 10 39 Fax: + (374 10) 22 66 56 armenia.pmambassy.gov.tn www.turkmenistanembassy.am

UKRAINE

Address: 29 Arabkir str., House 5/1 Tel.: + (374 10) 22 97 27 Fax: + (374 10) 22 12 14 emb_am@mfa.gov.ua

FRANCE

Address: 8 G. Lusavorich str. Tel.: + ( 374 60) 65 19 50 Fax: + ( 374 60) 65 19 70 cad.erevan-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr www.ambafrance-am.org

Czech Republic

SWITZERLAND

KAZAKHSTAN

LEBANON

Address: 1 Demirchyan str., 11 apt. Tel.: + (374 10) 58 51 19 Fax: + (374 10) 56 06 10 erevan@mfa.kz www.kazembassy.am

Inside the city, but far from city bustle

Address: 44A Hanrapetutyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 51 93 73 Fax: + (374 10) 58 93 71 yerevan@embassy.mzv.cz www.mzv.cz/yerevan

ITALY

Address: 5 Italiayi str. Tel.: + (374 10) 54 23 35, 54 23 36 Fax: + (374 10) 54 23 41 segreteria.jerevan@esteri.it www.ambjerevan.esteri.it

Nork Residence

Address: 2/1 Adamyan str. Tel.: + (374 10) 52 40 88, 52 98 60 Fax: + (374 10) 52 98 61 yer.vertretung@eda.admin.ch

Address: 13/14 Dzoragyugh str. Tel.: + (374 10) 50 13 02, 50 13 03 Fax: + (374 10) 50 13 01, 50 13 04 libanarm@gmail.com

CHINA

Address: 12 Baghramyan str. Tel.: + ( 374 10) 56 00 67, 56 06 63 Fax: + ( 374 10) 54 57 61 chinaemb_am@msa.gov.cn am.china-embassy.org/rus/

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56/1 Moldovakan str., Yerevan, Armenia Теl.: +(37410) 670051 fax: +(37410) 670062 reservation@NorkResidence.am www.norkresidence.am

Address: 12,Aygestan str., 6 apt. Tel.: + (374 10) 57 64 52 Fax: + (374 10) 57 71 51 earme@mrecic.gov.ar

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2/5 Abovyan str.,

Theatres

MHER MKRTCHYAN ARTISTIC THEATRE 18 Khorenatsu str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 01 99, 58 60 24 Foundation year: 1986 HAMAZGAYIN THEATRE AFTER Sos Sargsyan 26 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 94 15, 50 10 60 Foundation year: 1991 STATE RUSSIAN DRAMA THEATRE AFTER STANISLAVSKI 7 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 39 62, 56 91 99 Foundation year: 1936 STATE THEATRE OF MUSICAL COMEDY AFTER HAKOB PARONYAN 7 V. Sargsyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 01 01, 58 00 75 Foundation year: 1942 STATE DRAMATIC THEATRE AFTER HRACHYA GHAPLANYAN 28 Isahakyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 47 13, 52 47 23 Foundation year: 1967 STATE PUPPET THEATRE AFTER HOVHANNES TUMANYAN 4 Sayat-Novayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 32 44, 52 02 54 Foundation year: 1935

You will find a proof of the warmth of the Armenian hearth and hospitality in the guest house “Tsaghkunk” in the village of the same name in Gegharkunik region. The guests of “Tsaghkunk” guest house find themselves in a big family, where they are welcomed by the founders Yura and Ani Sargsyans. “I always wanted to have a big house like the one in my childhood - says the hospitable owner. – I wanted it to be bright and cozy, filled with warmth: there I could receive a lot of guests and see them off with a smile.”

"Tsaghkunk" is a realization of that dream!

YEREVAN STATE CHAMBER THEATRE 58 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 60 70, 58 78 44 Foundation year: 1982 YEREVAN STATE PANTOMIME THEATRE 3 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 77) 99 11 49 Foundation year: 1974 METRO THEATRE G. Njdeh Metro station, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 42 27 42 Foundation year: 1992 NATIONAL ACADEMIC THEATRE OF OPERA AND BALLET 54 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 33 91, 58 63 11 Foundation year: 1933 NATIONAL ACADEMIC THEATRE AFTER GABRIEL SUNDUKYAN 6 G. Lusavorich str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 76 70, 52 57 72 Foundation year: 1921 DRAMA AND COMEDY THEATRE AFTER EDGAR ELBAKYAN 43 Mastotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 24 50, 56 04 91 Foundation year: 1994

STATE THEATRE OF YOUNG SPECTATOR 3 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 31 27, 56 30 92 Foundation year: 1929 HENRIK MALIAN THEATRE 18 Vardanants str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 02 96 Foundation year: 1980

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Tsaghkunk village, Sevan town, RA Теl.: +(374 93) 991 888, +(374 94) 991 888, +(374 91) 981 888 e-mail: yasargsyan@gmail.com www.facebook.com/TsaghkunqGuesthouse www.booking.com/TsaghkunqGuesthouse

STATE THEATRE OF MARIONETTE 43 Mastotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 24 50, 56 04 91 Foundation year: 1987

The best apreciation of our work is the guest who comes back

80 Burnazyan str., 0008 Yerevan Đ˘Đľl.: +374 (10) 456213, +374 (77) 567439 E-mail: info@areghotel.com, www.areghotel.com

Museums

HISTORY MUSEUM OF ARMENIA 4 Hanrapetutyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1919 Tel.: +(374 10) 58 27 61 Working days: Tue. - Sat. working hours: 11:00 - 18:00 Fee: 1000 AMD

MATENADARAN 53 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan. foundation year: 1959 Tel.: +(374 10) 56 25 78, 58 32 92, 56 06 42 Working days: Mon.- Sat. working hours: 10:00 - 17:00 Fee: 1000 AMD. Web: www.matenadaran.am

National ART GALLERY OF ARMENIA 1 Arami str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1921 Tel.: +(374 10) 58 08 12 Working days: Tue. - Sat. working hours: 11:00 - 17:30 Fee: 800 AMD. Web: www.gallery.am

EREBUNI MUSEUM 38 Erebuni ave., Yerevan. foundation year: 1968 Tel.: +(374 10) 45 82 07 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 10:30 - 16:30 Fee: 1000 AMD. Web: www.erebuni.am

MODERN ART MUSEUM 7 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan. foundation year: 1972 Tel.: (+374 10) 53 53 59 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 18:00 Fee: 500 AMD

HISTORY MUSEUM OF YEREVAN 1/1 Argishtii str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1931 Tel.: +(374 10) 56 81 85 Working days: Mon. - Fri. working hours: 10:00 - 18:00 Fee: 500 AMD

HOUSE-MUSEUM OF ARAM KHACHATURYAN 3 Zarubyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1984 Tel.: +(374 10) 58 01 78 Working days: Mon. - Sat. working hours: 11:00 - 17:00 Fee: 500 AMD. Web: www.аkhachaturian-м.am

THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE MUSEUM “TSITSERNAKABERD” Tsitsernakaberd Park, Yerevan. foundation year: 1995 Tel.: +(374 10) 39 09 81 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 16:00 Entrance: Free. Web: www.genocide-museum.am

HOUSE-MUSEUM OF HOVHANNES TUMANYAN 40 Moskovyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1953 Tel.: +(374 10) 58 12 71, 56 09 27 Working days: Mon. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 16:30 Fee: 500 AMD HOUSE-MUSEUM OF SERGEY PARAJANOV Dzoragyugh ethnographic center, bld. 15-16 (from Paronyan 15) Yerevan. foundation year: 1997 Tel.: +(374 10) 53 84 73, 53 92 24 Working days: Mon. - Sun. working hours: 10:30 - 17:00 Fee: 700 AMD. Web: www.parajanov.museum.am

MUSEUM OF ALEXANDER TAMANYAN Government house 3, 1st floor, Yerevan. foundation year-2001 Tel.: +(374 10) 58 57 73 Working days: Wed. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 18:00 Entrance: Free MUSEUM OF FOLK ART OF ARMENIA 64 Abovyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1978 Tel.: +(374 10) 56 93 83, 56 93 87, 56 93 80 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 16:00 Fee: 500 AMD

HOUSE-MUSEUM OF KHACHATUR ABOVYAN 2 Sarkavagi str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1938 Tel.: +(374 10) 28 16 87 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 10:00 - 17:00 Fee: 500 AMD

MUSEUM OF EGHISHE CHARENTS 17 Mashotsi ave., Yerevan. foundation year: 1953 Tel.: +(374 10) 53 14 12, 53 55 94 Working days: Tue. - Sat. working hours: 11:00 - 18:00 Fee: 300 AMD

HOUSE-MUSEUM OF AVETIK ISAHAKYAN 20 Zarubyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1963 Tel.: +(374 10) 56 24 24, 58 73 80 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 10:30 - 17:00 Fee: 500 AMD

MUSEUM OF MINAS AVETISYAN 29 Nalbandyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1977 Tel.: +(374 10) 58 08 12 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 10:00 - 16:00 Fee: 500 AMD

HOUSE-MUSEUM OF ALEXANDER SPENDIARYAN 21 Nalbandyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1967 Tel.: +(374 10) 58 07 83 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 16:30 Fee: 300 AMD

CAFESJIAN MUSEUM FOR THE ART Cascade Complex, Yerevan. foundation year: 2009 Tel.: +(374 10) 56 72 62 Working days: Tue. - Thu. working hours: 10:00 - 17:00 Fri. - Sun. working hours: 10:00 - 20:00 Fee: 1000 AMD. Web: www.cmf.am

HOUSE-MUSEUM OF YERVAND QOCHAR 39/12 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan. foundation year: 1984 Tel.: +(374 10) 52 93 26 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 17:00 Fee: 600 AMD “GALA ART” ART GALLERY 12 Byron str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 53 88 38, +(374 10) 54 88 38 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 20:00 Entrance: Free

GATE 82

RUSSIAN ART MUSEUM 38 Isahakyan str., Yerevan. foundation year: 1984 Tel.: +(374 10) 56 03 31, 56 21 56 Working days: Tue. - Sun. working hours: 10:30 - 16:30 Fee: 500 AMD “ARAME” ART GALLERY 33/1 Mashtotsi ave., bld. 3 Tel.: +(374 10) 50 00 97 Working days: Mon. - Sun. working hours: 11:00 - 20:00 Entrance: Free.

TUFEN

IAN

H E R I TAGE HOTE L S

Stores

brandy

flowers

brand shops

MAVI 40 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 11) 50 43 04

AVSHAR WINE FACTORY 58/3 Charentsi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 57 78 52

ANI ROSE 42 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 06 20

ADIDAS 3 Arami str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 47 07

MAXMARA 41 Mashtots ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 59 57

ARARAT BRANDY FACTORY 2 Isakov ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 51 01 49

BRABION FLORA SERVICE 32 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 99) 52 02 01

ADOLFO DOMINGUEZ 3 Tsiternakaberd highway, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 46 04 06

MAX & CO 39 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 24 20

ARENI WINE FACTORY 1 Yerevanyan ave., village Areni Tel.: +(374 94) 42 44 02

MON AMI 28 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 88 14

ARMANI JEANS 28 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 42 20

MEGASPORT 40/1 Sayat-Nova str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 51 98 98

ARMAS WINES Nor Yedesia, Aragatsotn Province Tel.: +(374 11) 77 37 74

BASIC HOUSE 4/12 Babajanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 19 34

MEXX 26 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 46 23

ARTSAKH BRANDY 5 Zakyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 05 34

BOSSINI 12 Kasyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 27 43 67

MOTHERCARE 51/53 Hanrapetutyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 67 05

souvenirs

NIKE 62 Hanrapetutyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 08 70

VEDI ALCO WINE FACTORY 21/3 Pushkin str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 74 01

ART SOUVENIR 51 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 63 21

CELIO 24 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 50 07

YEREVAN ARARAT BRANDYWINE-VODKA FACTORY 9 Isakov ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 70 48

VERNISSAGE Tashir street, Northers Ave., Yerevan Тel.: +(374 96) 00 41 03

DEBENHAMS 66 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 70 78

IJEVAN WINE FACTORY 31/1 Davitashen str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 99 91 91

MANGASAR 14/1 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 26 43

MAP WINE FACTORY 8 Kievyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 27 06 30

SOUVENIR SALON 6 Tamanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 52 61

EMPORIO ARMANI 2 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 99 08

NOYAN TUN 12 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 21 10

SALT SACK 3/1 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 89 31

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA 5 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 00 04

PARFOISE 10/4, Northern ave., Yerevan 21, Abovyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 54 39 29

ESCADA 39 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 55 85

PETER AND PAUL 39/12 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 21 15

ETAM 26 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 31 11

PHILIPP PLEIN 6, Northern ave., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 11) 55 50 50

GIANFRANCO FERRE 8 Sayat-Novayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 18 85

PUMA 52 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 73 37

LA COQUETTE 41 Mashtotsi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 94 94

RIO SPORT 3 Tsitsernakaberd highway, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 46 04 06

PROSHYAN BRANDY FACTORY 18 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 76 68

jewelry

ARTYOM'S 24, M. Khorenatsu str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 93) 00 99 99

grocery YEREVAN CITY 10 Tigran Metsi ave., Yerevan 60/2 Komitas ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 28 73 KAISER 148/2 Andraniki str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 74 86 86 SAS 18 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan 85 Baghramyan str., Yerevan 31 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 93 99 Krpak 42 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan 37 Tigran Mets ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 99) 05 77 25 PARMA 79а, M. Baghramyan Ave., Yerevan 3/85 Northers Ave., Yerevan 9 Khorenatsu str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 27 27 99

GATE 84

DE LAUR 39/12 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 99 55 77 Mercuri 50 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 60 00

EDELWEISS 54/1 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 93 49

LA GALLERIA 3 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 70 27 07 LC WAIKIKI 46 Komitasi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 50 43 04

shoes ARMOS 5 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 44 14 11 CLARKS 8/2 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 50 24 54 ECCO 6/6 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 36 14 GEOX 6/15 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 22 34

ALISA FASHION STUDIO Tashir street, Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 91) 80 05 44 MANGO 21 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 00 11 MARINA RINALDI 41 Mashtotsi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 59 56 MASSIMO DUTTI 18 Northern ave., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 41) 41 11 88

NEXT 13 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 33 99 ODRI 39 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 10 45 ORSAY 17 Abovyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 54 46 36

RIO GALLERIA 8 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 50 18 01 STEFANO RICCI 3 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 65 28 ZILLI 58 Baghramyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 20 20 50

mall DALMA GARDEN MALL Tsiternakaberd highway, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 46 11 11 Yerevan MALL 34/3 Arshakunyats Ave., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 11) 88 88 88 Rossia MALL 16 Tigran Metsi Ave., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 11) 20 05 00

Hotel “Capital” is a small, cozy, comfortable place where you can spend your vacation, where you can feel far from the noise of the city, while being in the center of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. Since it is located in Aygedzor ─ one of the most picturesque places in Yerevan, here you can admire the amazing views of the valley from the room window or the balcony. Our guests enjoy modern personal service, and we are always happy to help tourists in any matter.

Aygedzor 53 B, Yerevan, Armenia Теl.: +(374 10) 277 878, +(374 91) 27 78 78 Fax: +(374) 10 27 78 78 info@capitalhotel.am www.capitalhotel.am

Restaurants

AI LEONI 40 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 83 31 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

THE CLUB 40 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 73 04 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

HIGH REST 21/1 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 21 21 11 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

The Coast 2/2 Tаmanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 95) 30 10 00 Working hours: 09:30-24:00

anoush 7/1 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 99 00 00 Working hours: 07:30-24:00

Dolmama 10 Puskini str., Yerevan, Теl.: +(374 10) 56 13 54 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

ARARAT HALL 30 Koghbatsu str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 85 88 Working hours: 10:00-23:00

IN VINO 6 Saryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 19 31 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

ART BRIDGE 20 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 12 39 Working hours: 08:30-24:00

CAUCASUS COMPLEX Ashtarak highway, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 98) 91 99 19 Working hours: 24/7

BEL ETAGE 31 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 50 07 51 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

CAUCASUS TAVERN 82 Hanrapetutyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 11 77 Working hours: 24/7

Beerevan 26 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 50 51 01 Working hours: 10:30-24:00

CARAHUNGE 64 Sos Sargsyan str., Stepanavan, Теl.: +(374 99) 32 43 00 Working hours: 11:00-23:00

BRAVO 13 G. Kochari str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 27 06 10 Working hours: 12:00-24:00

KARLOFF 31 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 97 80 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

VIENNA RIBS 24 Saryan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 60) 53 00 07 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

CAFE´ BLANC 37 Mashtotsi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 50 20 12 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

Vinograd 62 Hanrapetutyan str., Yerevan Тel.: +(374 77) 52 03 57 Working hours: 14:00-24:00

CUCINA 1 Amiryan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 59 92 46 Working hours: 12:00-24:00

HAVANA 1/6 Leningradyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 38 06 06 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

LAGONID 37 Nalbandyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 49 93 Working hours: 10:00-23:00

GarniToun 8 Marzpetuni str., Garni village Теl.: +(374 96) 06 04 70 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

LA CUCCINA 52 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 40 58 Working hours: 11:00-23:00

GEGARD Geghard Highway Tel.: +(374 99) 32 22 42 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

LIBAN 23 Sayat-Novayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 99) 66 07 00 Working hours: 12:00-24:00

GENATSVALE 7 Kievyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 32 61 10 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

Lebanon 3 Tamanyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 56 18 94 Working hours: 12:00-23:30

GUSTO 11 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 11 21 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

MANGIARE 18/2 Vardanants str., Yerevan Теl: +(374 43) 60 07 00 Working hours: 08:00-24:00

GATE 86

MARTINI ROYALE 16 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 54 01 01 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

TSIRANI HOME 5 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 85 09 50 Working hours: 09:00-24:30

MER TOONE 23/3 Raffi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 73 00 42 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

Cherkezi Dzor 1 Karmir Berd, Gyumri Теl.: +(374 99) 01 15 20 Работает с 09:00 до 23:00

MIMINO 7 A. Manukyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 57 33 44 Working hours: 11:00-24:00

CHARLES 3/40 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 26 21 Working hours: 09:00-24:00

NATIONAL 4/3 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 57 40 00 Working hours: 11:00-23:00 Noyan 9/15 Parpetsu str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 53 50 30 Working hours: 10:00-24:00 OLD KHARBERD 3 Amiryan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 52 00 89 Working hours: 11:00-24:00 BEIJING 33 Sayat-Novayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 53 42 Working hours: 12:00-23:30 RAFAELLO 1 Italiayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 59 11 99 Working hours: 07:00-23:00 РOLY cafe, Cinema Club 5/1 Griboyedov str., Yerevan; 6/24 Northern Ave., Теl.: +(374 10) 20 70 70 Working hours: 11:00-24:00 ROSSINI 14 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 94 00 Working hours: 07:00-23:00 SALON 8 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 11) 44 33 33 Working hours: 11:00-24:00 Sedvi 69 Koghbatsu str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 50 50 30 Working hours: 11:00-24:00 SUSHI TORIA 1 Sayat-Novayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 48 00 48 Working hours: 11:00-24:00 tAVERN YEREVAN 91 Teryan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 508 800 Working hours: 09:30-01:00 Tbiliso 52 Leoyi str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 55) 61 00 61 Working hours:11:00-24:00 TOSPIA 30/3 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 60 00 07 Working hours: 10:30-24:00 HOOKAH PLACE 31/12 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 53 21 72 Working hours: 12:00 -24:00

Armenian Georgian European Italian French Arabian Persian Chinese Japanese Thai Ukrainian Continental Czech Mexican Lebanese Brazilian

pizzerias BELLA ITALIA 4/7 Alek Manukyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 57 33 99 Working hours: 10:00-24:00 DIAMOND 2 Byuzandi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 34 34 Working hours: 10:30-24:00 DOKA PIZZA 26 Sayat-Novayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 65 45 Working hours: 24/7 PIZZA DI ROMA 31/2 Khorenatsu str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 15 18 Working hours: 10:00-24:00 PIZZA HUT 1 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 50 15 03 Working hours: 10:00-24:00 TASHIR PIZZA 33 Khorenatsu str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 51 11 11 Working hours: 10:00-24:00

The entertainment center “Arena” is situated in the heart of the city. Here you can play bowling, billiards, as well as enjoy the famous Tifosi pizza and other dishes, test your accuracy in the shooting gallery and just have a good time. We will arrange an unforgettable evening for any event.

8 Mashtots ave., Yerevan, Теl.: +(37410) 53 61 01, +(37495) 53 61 01, info@bowling.am

www.bowling.am

Services

banks

air companies

clubs

car rental

ACBA-CREDIT AGRICOLE BANK 82-84 Arami str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 31 88 88

AEROFLOT 12 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 24 35

AVANT-GARDE FOLK 3a Pushkini str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 14 97

AR-TOUR RENT 10/6 Pushkini str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 63 59

AMERIA BANK 9 G. Lusavorchi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 11 11

AIR FRANCE 9 A. Manukyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 61 22 77

THE BEATLES 60 Pushkini str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 93) 50 26 22

BEAUMONDE 1 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 59 99 64

ANELIK BANK 75 Baghramyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 59 33 33

AIR ARABIA 68 Baghramyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 22 40 20

CALUMET Ethnic Lounge Bar 56a Pushkini str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 94) 35 92 29

YEREVAN TRAVEL 1 Baghramyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 77) 92 20 24

ARARAT BANK 19 Pushkini str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 59 23 23

BELAVIA 35 Sayat-Novayi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 57 74 74

CAFESJIAN CENTER 10 Tаmanyan str., Cascade, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 19 32

Caravan 50а Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 52 92 92

ARDSHININVEST BANK 13 G. Lusavorchi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 04 04

IRAN AIRLINES 19 Nalbandyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 44 02

JOSE 20 Khanjyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 54 00 20

Herz 7 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 33 11

AreximbanlGazprombankGroup 6/10 Northern Avenue, Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 51 40 40

UKRAINE AIRLINES 31/3 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 11) 61 20 00

YANS MUSIC HALL 74 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 70 00 00

Sixt 10/1 Northern ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 61 55 99

URAL AIRLINES 10/3 Saryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 88 61

KAMI 18 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 91) 50 90 20

CZECH AIRLINES 2 Baghramyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 36 24

MEZZO CLASSIC HOUSE CLUB 28 Isahakyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 42 11

S7 34 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 41 10

MALKHAS JAZZ CLUB 52/1 Pushkini str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 53 50

Globus Bus 1/8 Khorenatsu str., Echmiadzin Tel.: +(374 77) 00 00 39

POPLAVOK JAZZ CLUB 41 Isahakyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 23 03

Yerevan Travel 1 Baghramyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 77) 92 20 24

STOP MUSIC CLUB 37 Moskovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 07 80

Elitebus 9 Sayat-Nova str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 90 00

ARMBUSINESSBANK 48 Nalbandyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 59 20 20 ARNSWISSBANK 10 V. Sargsyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 44 19 ARTSAKH BANK 3 Kievyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 27 77 19 ARMECONOMBANK 23/1 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 20 07 ARMENIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK 21/1 Paronyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 59 14 00 BYBLOS BANK ARMENIA 18/3 Amiryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 03 62 BTA BANK 48/1 Nalbandyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 54 76 45 VTB BANK ARMENIA 46 Nalbandyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 56 58 60 INECOBANK 17 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 51 05 10

entertainment

ARARAT VALLEY 50 G. Chaush str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 39 40 85

ULIKHANYAN CLUB 4 G. Kochari str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 99) 58 65 36

ARENA BOWLING 8 Mashtotsi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 61 01

CLUB 12 91 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 96) 25 12 12

PLAY CITY 35 Acharyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 62 88 80

UNIBANK 12 Charentsi str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 13 20 HSBC BANK ARMENIA 66 Teryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 51 50 00

GATE 88

casino

children's cafe AMERICANO 55/1 Teryan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 58 33 99 JAZZVE KIDS Yerevan Mall, Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 88 88 88 NEPTUNE 17 Khorenatsu str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 54 15 41

fitness clubs AEROFLEX 21 G. Kochari str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 27 15 50 AYA MARIA 77 Azatutyan str., vill. Dzoraghbyur, Kotayk region Tel.: +(374 60) 28 92 56

YELL EXTREME PARK Tavush Marz, Yenokavan village Tel.: +(374 41) 01 00 30

CONVERSE BANK 26/1 V. Sargsyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 51 12 11 PROMETEY BANK 44/2 Hanrapetutyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 17 05

THE CLUB 40 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 13 61

with a driver

MILLIONAIRE Zovuni Tel.: +(374 10) 37 07 03 ROYAL Tsaghkadzor Tel.: +(374 10) 29 41 45 SENATOR Tsaghkadzor Tel.: +(374 99) 95 55 59 SHANGRI LA Abovyan Tel.: +(374 10) 28 58 99

AQUATEK 40 Myasnikyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 88 88 GOLD’S GYM 40/1 Komitasi ave., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 32 20 10 prolife 26/1 Vazgen Sargsyan, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 85 33 LUYS YOGA 3 A. Akopyana str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 96) 26 11 26 SHOONCH YOGA 28 Amiryan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 53 99 64

CENTER FOR MODERN MEDICINE AND COSMETOLOGY

In the medical center “Oxygen”, diagnostics and treatment are carried out by means of modern equipment. The clinic employs experienced doctors. In 2015, an award was conferred on “Oxygen” by the National Board of Trustees, that of “The best medical center equipped with the latest medical equipment”.

27 Amiryan str., Yerevan, Armenia Теl.: + 374 10 500 267 + 374 93 265 600

Medical centers

“NAIRI” MEDICAL CENTER 21 Paronyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 00 99; +(374 10) 53 75 00 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.nairimed.am

"OXYGEN" MEDICAL CENTER Yerevan, Amiryan str., 27 Building, Area 8 Теl.: +(374 10) 50 02 67 Working days: Mon.- Sat. (10:00-18:00) Web: www.oxygen.am

“EREBUNI” MEDICAL CENTER 14 Titogradyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 47 11 00, +(374 10) 47 06 00 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.erebouni.am

“VITALINE” MEDICAL AND LABORATORY DIAGNOSTIC CENTER 2/2 Proshyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 32 20 02, +(374 10) 32 20 07 Working days: Mon.- Sat. Working hours: 09:00 - 18:00

“SHENGAVIT” MEDICAL CENTER 9 Manandyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 44 33 73, +(374 10) 44 05 30 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.mcshengavit.am

“AVANTA” MEDICAL CENTER 5 Zakyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 52 11 95 Working days: Mon. - Sat. (half day) Working hours: 10:00-19:00 Web: www.avanta.am

“ARMENIA” REPUBLICAN MEDICAL CENTER 6 Margaryan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 31 81 09, +(374 99) 31 81 37 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.armeniamedicalcenter.am OPHTALMOLOGICAL CENTER AFTER S.V. MALAYAN 30 Fuchik str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 35 92 85, +(374 10) 34 51 13 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 08:30 - 22:00 Web: www.eyecenter.am “CMS” Clinic of Modern Surgery 13/4 Davit Anhaghti str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 20 61 03, +(374 93) 99 79 75 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.cmsyerevan.am “NEW-MED” CENTER OF UROLOGY 54 Abovyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 58 47 04, +(374 10) 54 56 30 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 08:00 - 18:00 “ON CLINIC-ANI” INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 48/27 Chekhov str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 46 60 62, +(374 99) 46 60 62 Working days: Mon. - Sat. (half day) Working hours: 09:30-20:00 Web: www.onclinicani.am “slavmed” 3/8 alley, 3 Baghramyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 32 22 11 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.slavmed.am “ARAMYANTS” MEDICAL CENTER 40 Dzorap str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 85 12 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.3-rdhospital.am “IZMIRLYAN” MEDICAL CENTER 19 H. Nersisyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 24 40 10 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 24-hours Web: www.izmirlianmedicalcenter.com

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“GRACIA” INTERNATIONAL REHABILITATION CENTER OF ARMENIAN RED CROSS SOCIETY 50/12 Ashtarak highway, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 34 52 00; +(374 10) 35 35 03 Working days: Mon. - Fri. Working hours: 09:00-17:00 “DIVIDENT” DENTAL CLINIC 27/1 Gyulbenkyan str., Yerevan Tel.: +374 (10) 322 322, +374 (91) 322 332 Working days: Mon. - Sat. Working hours: 9:00-21:00 Web: www.divident.dental “HASU” dental clinic Rostomi str. 29-189, 1st floor, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 55 86 98 Working days: Mon. - Sat. Working hours: 09:00-22:00 Web: www.hasuclinic.am “MODERN IMPLANT MEDICINE” MEDICAL CENTER 40 Dzorap str., 2nd floor, # 28, 29, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 53 38 38, +(374 96) 15 15 00 Working days: Mon. - Fri. Working hours: 09:00-18:00 Web: www.mim.am AESTHETIC CENTER «RIGAVO» 19 Moskovyan str., Yerevan, Теl.: +( 374 10) 58 76 05, +( 374 94) 45 43 87 Working days: Mon. - Sun. (09:00-22:00) “CITY SPA” MEDICAL AESTHETIC CENTER 1st Blind Alley, Baghramyan str., 2 building, area 44, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 60) 53 65 36, +(374 99) 52 46 64 Working days: Mon. - Sat. Working hours: 10:00-22:00 Web: www.cityspa.am “AYA MARIA” WELLNESS & SPA RESORT CENTER 77 Azatutyan str., Village Dzoraghbyur, Kotayk region Tel.: +(374 60) 28 92 56, +(374 95) 25 55 75 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 09:00-21:00 Web: www.ayamaria.am “CROSS” SPORT COMPLEX 50-1 Ashtarak highway, Yerevan Tel.: +(374 10) 34 91 10, +(374 10) 35 35 03 Working days: Mon. - Sun. Working hours: 07:00-22:30 Web: www.cross-sport.am

“RIGAVO” CENTER FOR AESTHETIC COSMETOLOGY, LASER EPILATION, MASSAGE AND weight loss.

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THE GORGE OF THE RIVER OF FREEDOM, FRIENDS, AND ONLY ONE CUP OF COFFEE IN MEMORY

“I adore the wisdom of proverbs and sayings and I agree with almost all of them, except for one: never go back where you felt good. Be sure to return and do it as often as possible. You will always feel good every time in a new way,” begins his story the rated climber Eduard Serobyan, who decided to share his impressions about one of his favorite places – the gorge of the Azat River.

ne of the places in Armenia, that I visit with asО tonishing constancy, every year, is the gorge of the

Azat River. It is not far from the city, and also there is no one around. Every year, when the spring has not yet come yet, and the tent has fallen on you five or six times from the mezzanine, reminding you about its wandering nature (or rather, about that nature of its owner), the question of the first hike faces you. Being a creature rather pampered by the south, I admire the hikes of Amundsen and skiers from the group “Metelitsa” only on TV. The main thing is the company of brothers by thinking. And so, the backpack is stuffed and pleas-

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antly weighs on the shoulders, something keeps mysteriously gurgling in it, the cat sees me off out the door with the eyes of a mad herring, in this look there is everything: “Where are you going, unreasonable one, from warmth and comfort?” Half an hour's journey, and we're over the canyon. Sheer cliffs on both sides, however, up to the meadow near the small river Azat it’s just an easy walk. A narrow trail is going down the shelves of the rocks – it is a bold statement to call it so, but it is possible to pass. Local residents call this path with the word “sarp”. I know three such “sarps” in this part of the gorge, although once they tried to prove to me that there are five of them ...

On the path we pass by the hospitable house of grandfather Vardan and grandmother Astghik. In the early nineties, when the Chinese curse became relevant – “May you live in the years of great changes”, grandfather looked around and made sure that the children had grown up and were completely independent, he left them a couple of photos to show to the grandchildren and together with his faithful friend Astghik left his native village Gurney, driving a couple of cows in front of him. Vardan and Astghik descended into the gorge, away from people and lived happily. A small house on the bend of the river, terraces, plowed and diligently tended, caress the

eye, the farm, mooing and cackling, and the babbling clean river. What else is needed for happiness? There is not a single touch of disharmony and no struggle with nature, even the vine is not on artificially created treillages, but winds around trees. A courtyard dog warned the old people about our arrival. A fragrant coffee foams and hisses in a jazve that has turned smoky on the fire. After coffee, the exchange of news and reciprocal invitations for dinner, we cross the river on a bridge of wire and planks, built by the grandfather. Under the feet, the river is bubbling, justifying its name Azat, which means “free”. Here it is - native glade!!! Nothing has

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Armenia

changed in a year, except that the hearth of the fireplace has been covered grass. We place tents in the thawed patches of snow, we shove things there and forward we go, along the gorge. Right above the glade is a rock. You probably already heard that there are stalactites only in the caves? You have another guess coming! This rock is all in limestone formations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; icicles, draperies and small balls, frozen in puddles of the water flowing down the cliff. Next we go by the traverse, under the mountain Yeranos, we go into the forest with the buds already swollen on the trees. It is no longer a winter dream, but a fragrance of freshness and an impatient expectation of warmth. One breathes not only with the lungs: the air does not flow into them, but is eaten with appetizing slices. The ultimate goal of our day route is the mineral water source. From the cleft in the rock a rather powerful water jet breaks through. The entire rock below is covered with a yellow-red crust of mineral deposits.

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In the lower part, someone had worked hard and knocked out a bath in the rock. It is quite possible to lie down in it, stretching out to the full length and admiring the bubbles of gas that will cling to your whole body. I do not know what this water heals, but I can describe its taste: although I have never eaten a stew from rusty nails, but it is clearly in this flavor range. And the application is wisely prescribed by the people: in the upper part, where the creek only gets out from under the ground, there is always a mug left here a long time ago, that is, this medicine is internal. And here below, where the bath is, it is already external ... That's all the logic for you! Me, for example, this water heals from winter hibernation and the blues, it helps exclusively! After water procedures, we return to the tents, collecting wood for the fire along the way. In front of us is an evening at the fireplace, smoothly turning into the night with a starry dome overhead, with something tasty stewed in the kettle, hot tea in mugs and quiet conversations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just so, about nothing and about everything at the same time. This is the meeting of old friends in their native place, this is the opening of the hiking season, and also the murmur of the river, reproaching us for the long absence. How can one not return there?! It used to be like this, and now, for the third year already there grandmother Astghik and grandfather Vartan are no longer there, they passed away with a difference of several months. As the daughter of one of the friends said, they died in happiness, in a heavenly place ... The house sinked to one side, the terraces got overgrown, the boards on the bridge were broken and there were almost none of them left, but all the same, descending into the ravine, we sit around the table made of boards in the garden and sit out exactly the same duration of a cup of coffee.

Dream in the motion

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MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTNATIONS IN ARMENIA AND NAGORNO-KARABAKH

The statement that Armenia is a very attractive country for tourists is not unfounded: every year the interest towards the country grows attracting more and more visitors to both Yerevan and most remote parts of the country, famous for its numerous attractions. It’s interesting, but the first time tourists come to Armenia with caution, falling for the popular belief that it’s not safe in the country due to the long lasting Karabakh conflict, which of course, is not true. However, they come here for the second time answering the call of the heart, and the third time they make sure to visit Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh Republic), which is no less famous for its rich history, attractions and hospitality. Right before the opening of the tourist season, we decided to present the 15 most popular tourist destinations in Armenia and Karabakh.

Garni temple is a pagan temple of I c. A.D. in Armenia: it is dedicated to Mihr, the ancient Armenian god of the Sun, celestial light and justice. Garni castle is mentioned by Tacitus in connection with the events of the first half of I c. A.D. in Armenia. It was built by the Armenian king Trdat I (66-88) in 76 A.D., as testified by the Greek inscription found in the same place. Garni is one of the clearest pieces of evidence to the centuries-old culture of the pre-Christian period of Armenia. They began to build the castle in the II century B.C. and continued to build it up during the ancient times, and partly in the Middle Ages. It is located in 28 km from Yerevan in the Kotayk region, near the village of Garni.

Yerevan – the capital and the largest city of Armenia both by its size and by population. It is one of the ancient cities of the world, as old as Rome and Babylon, Cartage and Nineveh. Until 1936 Yerevan was known as Erivan in the Russian transcription. The popular destinations in Yerevan include The Cascade, History Museum of the city of Yerevan, Art Gallery, the Republic Square, Matenadaran named after Mesrop Mashtots, Tsitsernakaberd, Theatre of Opera and Ballet, Sergey Parajanov House Museum, Aram Khachatryan House Museum, Erebuni Fortress, Saint Sargis Church, Saint Zoravor Church, Saint Astvatsatsin Church, Saint Katoghike Church, etc.

Zvartnots (the church of celestial angels) – a church of early medieval Armenian architecture ‒ is located not far from Yerevan and Vagharshapat (Echmiadzin). According to the Armenian historian Sebeos, Zvartnots was built by the order of CatholicosNerses III the Builder (641/642 ‒ 661/662), who was planning to move his residence from Dvin to Vagharshapat. In his book “Armenian Studies” Kamsar Avetisyan writes: “Zvartnots is dedicated to celestial angels, because in Armenian “zvartun” previously meant also “an angel”. So Zvartnots means “Temple of the Angels.” In 2000, the ruins of the church and the surrounding archeological territory were included in the list of the UNESCO World Heritage.

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MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTNATIONS IN ARMENIA AND NAGORNO-KARABAKH

Geghard, Geghardavank (Armenian: “Monastery of a spear”), also the old name Ayrivank is used (“Cave Monastery”) — a monastery complex, a unique architectural construction. The monastery is located approximately 40 km northeast from Yerevan. The monastery was founded in the 4th century at the place of a sacred spring arising in a cave. It is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name of the monastery complex comes from the Longinus spear which was the lance that pierced the side of Jesus Christ as he hung on the Cross, allegedly brought to Armenia by Apostle Jude, called here Thaddeus, and stored amongst many other relics. Now it is displayed in the Echmiadzin treasury.

Etchmiadzin Cathedral (Armenian: “The coming of the only-begotten”) ‒ the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the Pontifical Residence of the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians between 303 ‒ 484 and since 1441. The Cathedral is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Educational institutions of the Armenian Church are also located there. The original wooden cathedral was built in 303 (soon after Armenia adopted Christianity as a state religion). The core of the current building was built of stone between the 5-7th centuries. The belfry was built between 1653 ‒ 1658 and the sacristy in 1869.

The resort town Jermuk, one of the most popular resorts across the Soviet Union, is located on a mountain plateau at an altitude of 2070 m above sea level, and is surrounded by wooded hills. On the flank of Mount Shish (2850 m), there are two ropeway routes (one for novice skiers and another for the advanced); the ski lift rises up to the altitude of 2450 m of Mount Shish. The routes are prepared in accordance with the contemporary high standards. On the mountain, there operate a rescue service, and a ski- and snowboard-rental. One can stay in sanatoriums, hotels, guest houses or rent a room in the private sector.

Khor Virap (Armenian: “deep cell”) ‒ a monastery of the Armenian Apostolic Church located in Armenia close to the Turkish border at the foothill of Ararat Mountain. The monastery is famous for its location, as right from here one of the magnificent views to biblical Mount Ararat opens up. The monastery is built on the underground prison where the Armenian King Trdat III kept St. Gregory the Illuminator incarcerated for about 15 years before he (Trdat III) turned to Christianity (in 301). The hill of Khor Virap is located on the place of the ancient Armenian capital Artashat built by King Artashes I (circa 180 B.C.), the founder of the Artashesyan dynasty.

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The colorful and cozy tavern “Amberd” is located in the hotel with the same name. Here you can taste delicacies of Caucasian cuisine prepared by an experienced chef, as well as the exclusive hot dish “Amberd” made of veal and eggplants.

AMBERD TAVERN Armenia, Byurakan Теl.: +(374 94) 200 881, +(374 99) 902 802 info@amberdhotel.com www.amberdhotel.com

Enjoy your rest, the taste, and the view of the Ararat valley!

MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTNATIONS IN ARMENIA AND NAGORNO-KARABAKH

Noravank (Armenian: “New Monastery”) – a monastery complex, built in the 13th century 122 km far from Yerevan on the step of a narrow curving gorge of the Arpa River not far from the Armenian city of Yeghegnadzor. The gorge is famous for its hanging red rocks, towering behind the monastery on the territory of which the twostorey church of Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Virgin) is located with narrow cantilever stairs. Sometimes the monastery is called Amagu Noravank to distinguish it from Noravank Monastery located near the city of Goris. Amagu is the name of a small settlement, which used to stand over the gorge. During 13-14th centuries the monastery became the residence of Syunik bishops.

Tatev, ropeway called “Wings of Tatev”. Tatev (Armenian: “give wings”) – is an Armenian monastery complex dating back to the 9-13th centuries, situated in Syunik region 20 km far from the city of Goris. It is a part of a huge tourist complex, which also features the hermitage called Tatevi Anapat, Tatev, ropeway, the natural bridge called Satani Kamurj and many other sightseeing. It was established in 895 ‒ 906 and has been the religious center of Syunik since the 19th century. Tatev ropeway called “Wings of Tatev” is the longest two-way ropeway in the world stretching 5,7 kilometers. The highest elevation point of the ropeway is 320 meters over the river Vorotan.

Tsaghkadzor is popular as a tourism development center. This ski resort won recognition already in the Soviet era. Soviet national teams used to train here. In Tsaghkadzor, one has access both to the 4-stage ropeway, which corresponds to world quality standards, and routes for skiers and snowboarders, and also renting of all the necessary equipment. Especially for novices, a fifth stage has recently opened. In the town there are many hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and a developed private sector. On the flank of Mount Tsaghkunyats (2820 m), where the cableway is set, bar-cafes, rescue services, first aid services, courses for novice skiers, etc аre functioning.

The high-altitude lake of Sevan is attractive both in summer and in winter. The average monthly temperature in winter is -70C. Lake Sevan itself fully freezes only in harsh temperatures (below -200C). That is accounted for by the influx of numerous springs. Snow settles from the end of November until mid-April. A cable car station opened here in 2011. It is located near hotel “Akhtamar”, on the flank of Mount Urtsatap. On the territory of the ski center, various cafes and bars are located. Around lake Sevan, there are numerous hotels of various levels, operating the whole year round.

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53/2, Aygedzor str., Yerevan, Теl.: +(37410) 265 214, +(37477) 191 077, info@silk-road.am, www. silk-road.am

The hotel “Silk Road” is made up of 13 cozy rooms in ethnic style, a lovely garden with mysterious Vishaps – amulets, original khachkars (cross-stones) and a traditional tandyr (tandoor), where Armenian lavash is baked, as well as the picturesque view of the biblical Ararat. The vintage interior and a unique collection of handmade carpets create a special atmosphere of warmth and serenity. The combination of national traditions, modern comfort and an individual approach of the staff to every guest create a unique atmosphere of harmony, peace and Armenian hospitality! We are waiting for you in the coziest corner of Yerevan.

MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTNATIONS IN ARMENIA AND NAGORNO-KARABAKH

Dilijan ‒ a spa city in Tavush Region of Armenia known as a mountain climatic and balneological resort. It is located on the river Aghstev (the right tributary of the Kura River). The city is famous for traditional Armenian architecture. From almost all sides it is surrounded by the territory of Dilijan Reserve – one of the richest ones in all South Caucasus. Dilijan has always been home to numerous Armenian artists, composers, scientists and directors. Today the city is considered as one of the cultural centers of Armenia. The city is especially proud of its musical school and college since many of their students later enter Yerevan State Conservatory. The city and its surrounding areas feature many rest houses such as the Composers’ House, Cinematographers’ Union House, etc.

Tigranakert – an ancient city in Artsakh province of Greater Armenia, one of the four ancient Armenian cities with the same name supposedly established by Tigran II in the 1st century B.C. The excavations of the city are carried out by Artsakh expedition of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia led by Hamlet Petrosyan, Doctor of Historical Sciences. The place is known among the locals as “Tkrakert” or “Tarnakert” (local pronunciation of “Tigranakert”. In December 2008 at the government session of Nagorno Karabakh Republic it was decided to recognize Tigranakert as a Historic-Cultural reserve.

Shushi – a city in Nagorno Karabakh. It is situated in the Karabakh Mountains at an altitude of 1368 above sea level, on Stepanakert-Goris highway, 11km south from Stepanakert. The ancient fortress-city of Shushi has been the administrative, religious, cultural and educational center of the region for several thousands of years. The village Shusho/ Shusha in Nagorno-Karabakh is mentioned in Armenian manuscripts of the 15th century. According to Brokhaus and Efron Encyclopeic dictionary, Shusha was founded in 1752 by Panah-Ali Khan. The Great Encyclopedic Dictionary and the Institute of Geography RAN also mention the foundation date of the city as 1752. According to the Great Soviet Encyclopedia, Shusha was founded in the middle of the 12th century as a fortress to protect the Karabakh khanate.

Gandzasar (Armenian: “Mountain treasure”), Gandzasar Monastery — an Armenian monastery, a significant statue of the Armenian culture, an acting monastery of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The Monastery got its name from the mountain that the locals used to call Gandzasar due to its silver mines (Arm, “gandz”-treasure, “sar”-mountain). It is situated on the left bank of the river Khachen, not far from village Vank in Nagorno-Karabakh. According to a legend, in the burial vault of the temple the head of John the Baptist severed by Herod is buried, brought here from Cilician Armenia during the Crusades. Thus the church was named as St. Hovhannes Mkrtich (St. John the Baptist).

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Antarain 11, Arzakan, Kotayk region, Armenia Теl.: +(374 60) 650 606, +(374 95) 650 606 info@aghveranararat.am

www.araratresort.am

We do not serve visitors. We accept guests. “Ararat Resort” is an ideal place for those who wish to experience the real warmth of Aghveran. The modern hotel offers a combination of corporate services for both leisure and business meetings. Its designer rooms are equipped with all the necessary conditions for a perfect holiday. The delicious breakfast buffet every morning, the indoor and outdoor pools, the lounge bar and the friendly staff will make your stay complete. And if you're worried about your children, while enjoying your stay in “Ararat Resort”, our staff will take care of them in the children's playroom and outdoor playground.

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Hotels Aviatrans Standard Single Deluxe Single Standard Double Standard Twin Deluxe Double Deluxe Twin Standard Family Deluxe Family Breakfast

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14th floor Business Double Deluxe Double Luxe Family Suites Breakfast

2 rooms 4 rooms 2 rooms 1 room Smorgasbord

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Yerevan elysium gallery Single Double Twin Family Quad Breakfast

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Garnitoun Standard Deluxe Breakfast

5 rooms 1 room Continental

Address: 8 Marzpetuni str., Garni village, Kotayk region, 2215 Теl.: +(374 96) 06 04 70, info@garnitoun.am, www.garnitoun.am Restaurant Bar Disco Indoor swimming pool Outdoor swimming pool

Conference hall (180) Gym Cinema hall Safe Car rent

Laptop rental Free Wi-Fi Internet-café Billiard Playground

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Sauna Massage Exchange Laundry Valet service

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This time, our charming and impartial gastronomic guide, Yelena Khachaturyan went to the restaurant â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cascade Royalâ&#x20AC;?. Read below what verdict she made.

Gastronomical guide by

Yelena KHACHATURYAN ATMOSPHERE Cascade Royal Restaurant and Lounge, which opened almost a year ago in April 2016, is located on Antarayin Street 192, not far from the museum of Charles Aznavour. With its stunning and fantastic view, the location is one of the winning spots of Yerevan. I went there for lunch on a cold and misty February day not even thinking that I would not want to leave the place, and this is why. Allow me to digress and ask: what normally attracts our attention when we step into any gourmet establishment? You are absolutely right: the interior and the ambiance. Both are top notch here. Nothing extra and unnecessary. This restaurant is glamorous, cozy and refined. Cascade Royal is a two storey restaurant that has four halls- two on each floor plus an open terrace, which is heated even in winter. There is a cigar lounge on the second floor. So one can choose an ambiance that will align with your current mood and state of mind and depending on the purpose of your visit. It is a perfect place to throw a birthday party, arrange a high level diplomatic dinner, lounge around with your friends next to a fire-place enjoying the peaceful crackling of the logs, or just chill on the open terrace with your drink while enjoying the full panoramic view of Yerevan. If the panorama is still not enough, then that can easily be solved by a huge telescope set up for the very curious! I was escorted to a dining hall by courteous waiters. The hall itself impressed me with its attention to detail: subtle grey and blue hues, candles, fresh flowers, crisp white cloth napkins with GATE 112 GATE 8

gold-thread embroidered initials. The slatted wooden ceiling left an impression of ocean waves- a truly magnificent sight! The family-friendly restaurant has a room for kids on the first floor with plenty of toys and games. So you could enjoy your meal, admire the view and savour the wine and a cigar while your kids are having supervised fun.

CUISINE

Eduard Simonyan is the chef of Cascade Royal who designed a very concise but a diverse menu. I loved the Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special section which offers you culinary surprises like pork schnitzel with blue cheese sauce, salmon steak with quinoa risotto, Caprese with burrata cheese and smoked pepper, seafood antipasto and many more. I followed the recommendation of Meline, the charming restaurant manager who helped me to select a few of the best dishes. I had a tuna tartare with a splash of olive oil, pieces of avocado, topped with sesame seeds, a beautiful bright salad with beets, thinly cut slices of pear, roasted nuts and balsamic dressing. The ingredients paired perfectly with the spices and the sauces. I ordered a chicken breast with estragon in a creamy sauce with saffron rice while refreshing my palette with a wonderful KOOR red wine. I finished off my meal with baked camembert in berry sauce and a cup of espresso!

WINE AND SPIRITS The wine list is extensive and features some of the most popular gems from Argentina, Armenia, France, Chile, Spain and Italy. The restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sommelier will help you pair your food with the wine. I would like to note the bar on the first floor. Apart from a wide selection of spirits you could choose from a wide range of professionally mixed cocktails. The word is that place is the best for cocktails in Yerevan. I have heard that people visit Cascade Royale for the best view of Yerevan. I totally forgot about the view as I was entirely consumed and smitten by the food, the service and its presentation. For this reason it was very hard to part from this magical spot even if for a while. Find us online at: www.armeniatourismmagazine.ru

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Moda

ARMENIAN CULTURE CAN AND HAS THE RIGHT TO SPEAK THE LANGUAGE OF FASHION Naira Niazyan can be called a paragon of Armenian beauty and an epitome of fashion. And it is not surprising that it was this fragile and beautiful girl that created and successfully realized on the Moscow podium such a unique project as Armfashionday. The Armenian Fashion Day is held twice a year – in spring and autumn. Now Naira is preparing the fourth show, which will be held in April. ronically, Naira was born in channel ArmTV. During this peAzerbaijan. All the relatives on riod, she fruitfully collaborated the maternal line are from Ije- with designers and artists who van (Armenia), and on the pa- invited the girl to their events ternal line – from Russia. Shortly as a model and photo model. before the outbreak of the Kara- When the channel closed, two bakh war, when the Armenians female designers – Ani Manukyhad already begun to feel, to an and Narine Harutyunyan – put it mildly, the unfriendliness suggested creating something of the Azerbaijanis, the Niazyan beautiful and exciting together. family moved to Armenia. She So the idea was born to hold the finished school in Ijevan; then Armenian Fashion Day in Mosentered Yerevan State Univer- cow. Interestingly, before that, sity, the Faculty of Philology (Ar- no one had organized a Day of menian language and literature). Armenian fashion in the Russian She did an MA as a specialist in capital. Yes, there were shows in Armenian literature. Then the the framework of different profamily moved to Moscow. grams, but nobody had held this In Moscow, Naira as a separate project. worked for a long And now it was November time on the first 2015. On the podium in MosArmenian cow, there were seven Armetelevision nian designers. The event cre-

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Moscow ated a furor. Nobody suspected that such a small country like Armenia was rich in so many talents in the fashion field. However, there are eminent Armenian designers who have long and successfully worked in the Russian capital. For example, Alexander Siradeghyan, Yulia Dallakyan, shoes designer Tigran Alberti, fashion designer Ani Manukyan, and others. Still, this is one thing, but what happens in fashion in the far-away Armenia is something that very few people know about. Naira brought out, so to speak, several names from Armenia at once. Among them is the well-known designer Lilit Melikyan (“Teryan” center), who presented modern clothes with Armenian ornaments. Considering now the increased interest in national patterns, ethno colors, the fashion from Lilit Melikyan was to the taste of many. Naira says: “We have a lot of talents in various spheres. And in fashion too. This is what I wanted to show.” The second and third shows did not take long to wait, because applications poured from various countries. And the third show already featured designers from Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Ukraine, Lebanon and other countries. Naira decided not to put geographical limits and to give freedom to designers of various countries to show their art on the Moscow podium. Moreover, it became like a bridge of friendship through fashion, and the project has become international. Now representatives from various countries are working in various countries, which are engaged in the selection of candidates. In the future, it is possible that Armfashionday will be held on podiums in different countries. On April 21 the fourth show will be held. Moreover, the Day of Armenian Fashion may turn into Days, and maybe even into a Week. Because it is very difficult to show clothes, shoes and accesso-

ries in one day. And on May 12, with the support of the esthete and the president of the jewelers' guild in Armenia Gagik Gevorgyan, Yerevan Fashion Week will be held, which will be opened by Vyacheslav Zaitsev. Undoubtedly, Armenian culture is rich, multifaceted and many-voiced. Why should not she also speak the language of fashion?! She does have the right to. Because there is something to say ... And what's more, Fashion Days and Weeks are not only sites for the self-realization of designers, but also an increase in the income from tourism.

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Feedback Мода

Why Armenia?

Because I love

Artist, teacher of academic drawing Olga Sharupskaya (Levina) visits Armenia often. The Armenian land inspired her for a series of artwork. Why Armenia? How? How come Armenia? Olga told us about that during her visit to the editorial office of the magazine “AT”. The numerous flights to Wonderland imperceptibly became a part of my life, and then Armenia itself became a part of me. Each time the routes of my journey pass along new places: new temples, new landscapes, new feelings, new secrets. But there are points where my soul returns many times: I am immensely in love with Goris, which appeared before me as a town in the mouth of the dragon; the mysterious Zorats Karer, the

he first meeting with Armenia occurred in a dream. A mysterious voice pointed to the border of two states and whispered the coordinates: “Go down there, desires come true there”, and there were juicy pictures with a long spiral staircase downwards. Google came to the rescue by showing the article on two travelers who had visited the dungeon of Khor Virap, leaving a note with a wish, which came true soon afterwards. A little more communication with Google, and the cherished ticket to the mysterious Armenia is in my hands. I was infected with love and happiness at once and forever at the airport of Zvartnots. Why Armenia? Because I love. The loudly silent mountains. Witnesses of history from the moment of the creation of the world. Stone churches. Here God speaks to you without intermediaries. Self-sufficient majestic people. With bottomless enticing depth in the eyes. They envelop one in love and care, emanating from their boundless huge soul, which guards many secrets. On God’s palms, here in Armenia. It is cozy and free. Here creative energy flows over the edge, and every molecule is saturated with love. You breathe and you cannot breathe to your heart’s content. GATE 116

secrets of which have haunted me for many years now, forcing me to return to this cosmic place to hear the dialogues of hole-ridden rocks, both in the winter noon and in the autumn twilight ... All this delight was first manifested in sketches on the site, and later smoothly flowed into painting. And I do not even know who paints through my hands: the spirit of Armenia or God himself? Now I am engaged in the restoration of the legend of the Harsnadzor Gorge, painstakingly collecting and painting the historical portrait of the legendary Syunik bride. I do not cease to marvel at the wonders that happen in my travels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they wait around the corner of buildings, they shine in the eyes of passers-by, they fly off the lips of Armenian friends, fall out like rain from the sky, they wrap you up in fog in the mountains, ring in the telephone receiver, they are wrapped in the bright, rustling wrappers of the insanely delicious chocolates ... they are everywhere! Because Armenia is one huge miracle. And only in Armenia does the door open not with Push, but with Soul! Armenia. BECAUSE I LOVE.

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Great food, wine, books & art 64 Sos Sargsyan str., Stepanavan, Armenia +374 99 32 43 00

NEW TRADITIONAL FISH TRIAD. PERFORMANCE OF ARMENIAN FISH Cast: River trout Sevan whitefish Catfish Crayfish tails

Extras: Crayfish soup with cognac Saffron sauce “Rui” Truffle creamy mousse Scenery: Mediterranean pebbles Oak sawdust smoke Ingredients: River trout 40 g Sevan whitefish 40 g Catfish 100g Crayfish tails 4 pcs. Crayfish soup 200 ml Truffle oil Cream 10 g Cherry tomatoes Parmesan cheese Saffron Cooking method: To prepare a crayfish soup, you need to cut the fish, separating the fish fillet. Boil the bones and the crayfish to make a broth. Add cognac, white wine, cream and salt to the broth, black pepper to taste. Fry the fillets of the fish, sprinkled with thyme. Sauce “Rui”: 1 tbsp. mashed potatoes, 1 tsp. crayfish soup, 0.5 g saffron.

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4 Tumanyan str., Yerevan Теl.: +(374 10) 53 73 04 info@theclub.am www.theclub.am