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Gyumri (Urban life museum, Black Fortress, walking through the old streets), Harichavank

Group tour: Gyumri (Urban life museum, Black Fortress, walking through the old streets), Harichavank

Full-day

Duration: 10-11 hours

Start time: 09:00

Tour language: English, Russian

Start & end point: 96, Nalbandyan str.

266 reviews

98% recommended

On this tour you will visit Gyumri, the second largest city in Armenia, one of the main cultural centers of the republic. The only Catholic church in Armenia has recently been built in Gyumri. Visiting the Urban Life museum you will discover everyday life, culture and history of Gyumri. There will be a stop at Black Fortress, which is one of the famous monuments of Gyumri. Built in 1834, it is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of the city. Walking through the streets of the town you will see lots of old buildings and feel the spirit of 19th century architecture. The monastery complex of Harichavank, the last stop, is situated on the western slope of Mount Aragats, on a rocky cape.

Deposit

To secure the booking, full payment is required.

Cancellation

In case of cancellation at least 24 hours before the start time, the paid amount is refunded. In case of later cancellation or no-show, no amount is refunded.

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Date

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Number of people

Adult (age 8+)
Child (age 3-8) 50% discount
Infant (age 0-3) free of charge

Preferred language:

Price per person

0 USD

34.47 USD

Total price

34.47 USD

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Same tour privately

Gyumri, Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum, Black Fortress, Lunch stop, Harichavank Monastery

1. Gyumri

90-110 min

Attraction page

Gyumri is located in the north-western part of Armenia, in the middle of Shirak valley, 125 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.

2. Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum

50-60 min

Attraction page

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.

3. Black Fortress

20-30 min

Attraction page

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.

Lunch stop

50-60 min

Optional lunch in the local traditional restaurant on own expense. One may choose between 3 different options:
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person

4. Harichavank Monastery

20-30 min

Attraction page

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.

Inclusions

Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
Air-conditioned vehicles
Bottled water & pastries
Admission tickets
Wi-Fi in the vehicles
Vehicle & passengers insurance

Exclusions

Lunch cost (10.42 USD – 13.09 USD)
Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)

Highlights

Explore "the city of crafts and arts"
Immerse yourself in the depths of local traditions
Take a walk in the old streets of Gyumri, where the famous Armenian films were shot

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there much distance to be carried on foot in Gyumri?

Yes, prepare for a walk of 1-2 hours to fully experience the beauty and history of the city.

Can I pay for the lunch in the restaurant by card?

It's advisable to bring cash in Armenian Drams, since paying for lunch with a card is not always possible.

What is the group size for this tour?

The group size varies, but typically ranges up to 48 participants.

Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather of the tour date conditions: bringing a coat or jacket is always a good idea, as regional temperatures tend to be lower than in Yerevan. Women should dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries, avoiding revealing clothing as a sign of respect.

Meet our Guides

Anahit Aslanyan

Education – musical-pedagogical and cultural studies. I have worked in the fields of tourism, education, and culture in Russia and Armenia. Currently, I work as a guide at the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute and in the company "Hyur Service". As a person with a humanities education and a cultural studies mindset, I strive to present my homeland as comprehensively as possible so that visitors gain a general impression of the history and art of the Armenian people. I pay special attention to mental and cultural characteristics to make every visitor's stay in Armenia comfortable and positive. I continue to study and share new knowledge.

Anahit Ghazaryan

My name is Anahit Ghazaryan, and since 2015 I have been in a state of love! I am in love with Armenia, and I always want to talk about it! Come visit! I guarantee it will be beautiful, easy, delicious, and fun! Let's discover Armenia together, enjoy it, and fall in love! I don't like legends and tell them only when absolutely necessary, and only those that feature real historical figures! Since I was born in the middle of the last century, I talk about some events not as a historian, but as a witness!

Armine Julhakyan

Hello! I'm Armine, your guide in Armenia. With me, you'll discover not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of my country.

Arpine Khalatyan

My name is Arpi. With experience in guiding since 2015, fluency in English and Russian, and a wealth of knowledge in history and culture, I offer engaging and informative tours during which you'll explore Armenia and feel the greatest vibes ever.

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Group tour: Gyumri (Urban life museum, Black Fortress, walking through the old streets), Harichavank