Gyumri’s Must Visits
A Journey Through History, Culture, and Creativity
Kumayri
Historic District
Quick Facts
Kumayri is the heart of Gyumri's cultural heritage. This district is a living museum with its preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings that reflect Armenian and Russian Imperial architecture.
Featured Locations
Aslamazyan Sisters' Gallery
Leo Art Studio
Friendship Park
Sev Berd Fortress (Black Fortress)
Historic Landmark
Description
An imposing 19th-century circular Russian imperial fortress, Sev Berd stands on a hill offering panoramic views of Gyumri and the surrounding landscapes. Its dark volcanic tuff stone gives it a formidable appearance and it's a significant historical monument.
Mother Armenia Monument
Monument
Description
A monumental statue symbolizing strength and resilience, the Mother Armenia in Gyumri stands tall in Victory Park. It serves as a tribute and a powerful emblem of the nation's spirit, watching over the city.
The Iron Fountain
Landmark
Description
A unique and somewhat surreal Soviet-era structure, the Iron Fountain resembles a futuristic sculpture with its concrete rings and spiraling metal. Though no longer functional as a fountain, it remains a fascinating and often photographed landmark from a bygone amusement park.
Independence Square
City Square
Description
Formerly Lenin Square, Independence Square is a central public space in Gyumri, now featuring a prominent monument dedicated to the victims of the 1988 Spitak earthquake. Surrounded by Soviet-era administrative buildings, it's a place of memory and civic importance.
Gyumri Bazar (Shuka)
Market
Description
The bustling heart of local commerce, Gyumri's Central Market (Shuka or Bazar) is a vibrant and authentic experience. Explore rows of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, spices, and household goods while soaking in the lively atmosphere and daily interactions.
Vardanants Square
City Square
Description
The main central square of Gyumri, Vardanants Square is a grand plaza surrounded by significant buildings like the City Hall, Holy Saviours Church, and Yot Verk Church. It's a popular gathering place and the city's ceremonial heart.
GTC (Gyumri Technology Center)
Technology Hub
Description
A hub of innovation and education, the Gyumri Technology Center is housed in a historic building that once hosted the first classes of Yerevan State University. It now supports startups, tech companies, and offers educational programs, symbolizing Gyumri's modern revival.
TUMO Gyumri
Educational Center
Description
Located in the historic building of Gyumri's first theatre in Central Park, TUMO Center for Creative Technologies offers free after-school programs for teens in tech and design. It's a vibrant space fostering the next generation of Armenian innovators.
Dzitoghtsyan Museum
Museum of Architecture and Urban Life
Description
Housed in a magnificent 19th-century mansion, this museum showcases the daily life, culture, and rich urban heritage of Gyumri (formerly Alexandropol). Explore traditional crafts, household items, and architectural exhibits.
Aslamazyan Sisters' Gallery
Art Gallery
Description
Celebrates the vibrant works of Mariam and Eranuhi Aslamazyan, pioneering Armenian female artists, housed in their former 1880s family mansion. The gallery features over 600 paintings, ceramics, and graphics reflecting their travels and Armenian heritage.
Mher Mkrtchyan Museum
Biographical Museum
Description
Dedicated to the beloved Armenian actor Mher "Frunzik" Mkrtchyan, this museum is located in his former residence. It displays personal belongings, stage costumes, and memorabilia from his illustrious career.
Avetik Isahakyan Museum
Literary Museum
Description
Preserves the legacy of the prominent Armenian poet and public figure, Avetik Isahakyan. Explore his personal library, manuscripts, and photographs in his former Gyumri home.
Hovhannes Shiraz Museum
Literary Museum
Description
Located in the former home of the celebrated poet Hovhannes Shiraz, this museum showcases his life and work. Exhibits include his manuscripts, personal items, and poetry reflecting his deep connection to Gyumri.
Yot Verk Church
Church
Description
Located in Vardanants Square, Yot Verk is a cherished 19th-century church that remained open during Soviet times. It's known for its intimate atmosphere and significant religious icons.
Holy Saviors Church
Cathedral
Description
An iconic symbol of Gyumri, this grand 19th-century cathedral was modeled after the Cathedral of Ani. Though damaged in the 1988 earthquake, its imposing structure and ongoing restoration speak to the city's resilience.
Saint Nshan Church
Church
Description
An elegant 19th-century church located in the historic Kumayri district, known for its devoted congregation and beautiful, honest architecture. It offers a peaceful space for reflection away from the main squares.
Aregak Bakery & Café
Café
Description
A heartwarming social enterprise offering delicious Italian-style coffee, freshly baked pastries, and light meals. It provides employment and support for disabled youth and their mothers.
Ponchik Monchik
Café
Description
An iconic Gyumri institution, famous for its legendary cream-filled ponchiks (doughnuts) – hot, airy, and utterly delicious. A must-try treat for any visitor.
Cherkezi Dzor
Fish Farm-Restaurant
Description
A unique dining destination built around its own fish farm, offering exceptionally fresh fish dishes, particularly trout, in a rustic, scenic setting. A countryside feel without leaving the city.
Sheeraz Cafe
Café
Description
An elegant café housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, offering a refined atmosphere, diverse menu including interesting pasta dishes, and a wide variety of breakfast options.
Herbs & Honey Teashop
Café
Description
A cozy and tranquil teashop cafe offering healthy food sourced from local farmers, a wide array of herbal teas, unique honey-based treats, and handmade jams.
Gyumri Express Restaurant
Restaurant
Description
A fun and unique family-friendly restaurant where some dishes are delivered to your table by a miniature train that circles the dining area. Offers a menu of burgers, wraps, shawarma, and more.
Central Park (Gorky Park)
Park
Description
Gyumri's largest and most iconic public park, offering long walking paths, plenty of benches, mature trees for shade, and the classic Ferris wheel. A cherished gathering place for locals.
Friendship Park
Park
Description
One of Gyumri's newer green spaces, Friendship Park offers a modern, clean, and open environment. It's good for walking, sitting with a book, and is generally less crowded.
Siremgy Mini-Park
Park
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Description
A neat, small park located along Rustaveli Street, famous for its iconic oversized "G" sculpture, a playful symbol of Gyumri. A popular spot for photos and a brief rest.
Drama Theatre
Theatre
Description
Gyumri's most iconic stage, founded in 1928 and named after legendary director Vardan Achemyan. It hosts a mix of classic Armenian dramas and contemporary works, upholding the city's rich theatrical tradition.
Puppet Theatre
Theatre
Description
Established in 1935, this is Armenia's first puppet theatre, located on Abovyan Street. It offers captivating performances for audiences of all ages, known for its intricate puppetry and engaging storytelling.
Varem & Marem Art Studio
Art Studio
Description
A whimsical and creative art studio in Gyumri, known for its unique handmade ceramics and other crafts, often with a touch of humor. A distinctive feature is their large wall where visitors are famously invited to "glue their name," creating a collective, ever-evolving piece of community art.
Leo Art Studio
Ceramic Studio
Description
A local ceramic studio where visitors can explore unique, handcrafted pottery and potentially witness the artistic process. It offers a chance to discover or purchase original ceramic pieces made in Gyumri and engage with the city's contemporary craft scene.