Sightseeing Gyumri

Gyumri: A Hidden Gem of Armenia

🏰 Sights to See:

1. Gyumri City Center (Յիրաքային Գյումրի): Stroll through the charming streets of Gyumri’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Don’t miss the beautiful Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral (Սուրբ Գրեգորիս Լուսավորիխ Սուրբ Ամազենտես Սուրբ Վրդանոս եկեղեցի) and the nearby Armenian-Catholic Church of Saint Yeghishhe (Սուրբ Եղիշե Եկեղեցի).

2. Gyumri Shirak Museum (Յիրաքային Շիրակայի Մուזեում): This museum offers a deep insight into the history and culture of Gyumri and the Shirak region. Highlights include traditional Armenian carpets, pottery, and costumes.

3. Masis Church (Սասնակենք Մասիս): Located approximately 15 km from Gyumri, Masis Church is a stunning example of 7th-century Armenian architecture. It’s known for its unique cross-domed structure and intricate bas-reliefs.

4. Marmashen Monastery (Մարմաշեն վանք): About 20 km from Gyumri, Marmashen Monastery is a complex of churches dating back to the 13th century. The main church is dedicated to Saint Astvatsatsin and boasts beautiful frescoes and khachkars (cross-stones).

🍴 Local Cuisine:

Gyumri is famous for its unique cuisine, particularly its bread ( Armenian: անկախ) and traditional dishes like Khinkali (Georgian dumplings), Khorovats (Armenian barbecue), and Ghapama (a sweet pumpkin rice dish cooked in a hollowed-out pumpkin).

🛍️ Shopping:

Gyumri is known for its artisans, especially in the fields of woodcarving, pottery, and textiles. The city’s bustling bazaar offers an array of locally made goods. Don’t forget to bargain!

🛏️ Accommodation:

Gyumri offers a range of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to modern hotels. Some popular options include Hotel Gyumri, Araks Hotel, and Khrimyan Gevorg Art Residence.

🚌 Transportation:

Gyumri is easily reachable by bus or marshrutka (shared taxis) from Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. Once in Gyumri, taxis are readily available, and the city center is quite walkable.