Photo from Wikipedia
Tourists traditionally start their journey to Armenia by exploring the capital city Yerevan. However, a trip to Gyurmi, Armenia’s second-largest city, will open new horizons and showcase how old and new can coexist in harmony. If you wonder what to do in Gyumri, you must know it is a city of museums, old buildings, Armenia’s oldest barber shop, and, of course, unique cuisine.
It is impossible to understand Armenia without visiting its cultural capital. So, if you are crafting an Armenia tour now, ask the travel agent to include this destination in your trip.
Located in Shirak province in Armenia’s north, it is a living testament to the county’s cultural heritage. The city was a part of different empires and faced many difficulties, including the devastating earthquake of 1988 when it was damaged heavily. However, today’s Gyumri has beautiful unique architecture and is a must-visit for travelers and culture enthusiasts.
The city is known for its traditional crafts and hospitality. Meanwhile, the locals are famous for their unique sense of humor. So, let’s see what Gyumri has to offer to tourists in 2023.
How to Reach Gyumri?
Tourists have different options to reach the city as Gyumri is only 120 kilometers away from Yerevan. You can either take a taxi or a bus. If you are seeking a more affordable option, you can travel by train. It will cost around $3.5 if traveling by an electric train and $6.4 by express.
Kumayri District
The first reference to Kumayri was made in Urartian inscriptions of the 8th century BC. It is no surprise that the district contains 1,600 monuments of cultural significance. Moreover, the district survived two devastating earthquakes in 1926 and 1988.
Wander through the enchanting streets of Gyumri’s old town and enjoy the beauty of houses made of black tuff. The historic buildings preserved from the 19th century are a testament to Armenia’s authentic urban architecture.
If you are not sure what to do in Gyumri, you can simply walk along cobblestone streets enjoying the charm of an old town. Those willing to learn more about the history of Gyumri should visit Kumayri Historical Museum-Reserve to discover the architecture and the lifestyle.
In addition to beautiful architecture, here you can find shops and studios with locally designed crafts and beautiful ceramics.
Oldest barber shop and pharmacy
In the heart of Gyumri, tourists will stumble upon two extraordinary establishments that will transport you back in time. The oldest barbershop and pharmacy in Gyumri are iconic relics of the city’s history.
The barbershop, founded in the first days of the Second World War and preserve the charm of the past with old chairs and signs. There are electric hair-cutting devices that are over 45 years old. A fun fact: the President of Armenia once did his haircut here.
Meanwhile, the pharmacy has been here since 1870 when it first opened on Alexandrovsky Street. This was the first pharmacy in Gyumri.
Black Fortress
When touring in Gyumri you can see the traces of the Russian Empire as it was a part of it in the 19th century when the city was called Alexandrapol.
The Black Fortress is built of a black volcanic tuff to protect the city from the Turks and Persians. It has a round structure with narrow crevices on the walls to open fire at enemies and a unique drainage system to protect the construction from rainwater. The complex is now a stage for cultural events and forums with a big amphitheater inside.
By the way, another landmark – the Mother Armenia monument – is on a hill next to the fortress, So, you can visit two sites and enjoy the view of Gyumri on a clear day.
Churches
Gyumri is home to some of Armenia’s remarkable churches. The Cathedral of the Holy Mother of God was constructed in the 19th century. Interestingly, the church also known as Seven Wounds Church remained open during the Soviet Union. It also survived the 1988 earthquake, although two domes fell down. Now the tourists can see the fallen domes next to it in the yard.
Holy Saviour’s Church or Amenaprkich is on the opposite side of Vardanants Square. It was damaged during the 1988 earthquake and underwent renovation in the 2000s. The visitors can find around 20 khachkars placed near the church after renovation.
Besides, Shirak province and its center Gyurmi is home to some 20,000 Catholics. Once you are in the city, visit the Cathedral of the Holy Martyrs memorizing the victims of the Armenian Genocide. An interesting fact: it was visited by Pope Francis during his Armenia pilgrimage in 2016.
Museums
Many tourists travel to Gyumri just for its dozens of captivating museums. There are several museums showcasing the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Shirak region and offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the Armenian people. Among them are the Dzitoghtsyan House Museum of Social Life and National Architecture, and the Gyumri History Museum.
The city is the birthplace of prominent Armenian writers, actors, and artists. Therefore, tourists can find here several house museums like the Museum of Hovhannes Shiraz or the Museum of Avetik Isahakyan.
If you are traveling with kids, they would be happy to discover the “magical” rooms of the Illusions Museum.
Food
The locals boast to have the best dishes in Armenia. The tourists are welcome to the local market to buy cheese, fresh vegetables, fruits, and dried fruit. Shirak region is the homeland of chechil, a string cheese, that Armenians like to eat with herbs and lavash. Of course, those open for experiments should try baked cow’s head or kyalla, which is a signature dish of the city.