Gyumri, Black Fortress, Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Gyumri

  Gyumri is located in the north-western part of Armenia, in the middle of Shirak valley, 126 km far from Yerevan. From the ethnical point of view, it is the most colorful city in Armenia. The local traditions are deeply rooted here, national spirit is reflected in everything. Walking along the streets of old Gyumri one still seems to hear the voice of the smiths' hammers, it seems that a cart will appear from the street corner and the carter will call to show around the city. The old houses, a part of which, fortunately, resisted the devastating earthquake in 1988, speak of the high architectural achievements of the city. These buildings are notable with their architectural solutions, combination of colorful stone and masterfully elaborated bas-reliefs. Gyumri has always been in the center of cultural events.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free
• 2
  Black Fortress

  Built in 1834, the Black Fortress is one of the famous monuments of Gyumri. The fortress is a complex of military and architectural buildings. In the central part there stands the Alexandropol Fortress with 3 gates, in the center – the layout of St. Alexandra church together with the southern and northern fortresses, serving as the General Protection Complex of Alexandropol. Underground roads were built for the Black Fortress and there were roads leading from the fortress to the present Mother Armenia Monument and the Red Fortress. Black Fortress is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of Gyumri.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 3
  Museum of National Architecture and Urban Life

  It is the museum of urban life and national culture of Gyumri, where the everyday life, culture and history of Gyumri are presented. This remarkable mansion was built by wealthy merchant Petros Dzitoghtsyan in 1872 from the famous red tuff of Shirak. The museum was founded in 1984 in this very building. It is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of Gyumri.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 4
  Harichavank Monastery

  The monastery complex of Harichavank is situated on the western slope of Mount Aragats, on a rocky cape. According to the architects' studies, the complex was founded in the 7th century. In the 13th century the main church was built. In the 19th century the complex became the summer residence of Catholicoses. Not far from the main buildings there is a small chapel which is of great interest. It is built on a piece of rock, which, as a result of an earthquake, split from the cape and the chapel is now towering over the canyon.

  45 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tags

Rating