Gyumri, Black Fortress, Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum

This private tour is dedicated to the visit of Gyumri – the second largest city in Armenia and one of the main cultural centers of the Republic. Recently the only Catholic church in Armenia has been built here. By visiting the Museum of Urban Life, you will get acquainted with the daily life, culture and history of Gyumri. There will be a stop near the Black fortress, one of the most famous monuments in Gyumri. Built in 1834, it is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of the city. Walking along the streets, you will pass by numerous old buildings and feel the spirit of 19th century architecture.

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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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

• Trip for big group
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  Minivan
  Pickup included
• Trip for small group
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  Pickup included

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Artyom Mkrtchyan.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Asia/Yerevan.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 6 Travelers is accepted for booking.