The exquisite topography of Armenia will mesmerise you
Armenia has one of the oldest, most complicated, most tragic histories of any country and it’s amongst the fewer that still has a culture that is as robust and rich. This is a place where the history will captivate you, the monuments will leave you in awe, the scenery will astound you, and the kind folks will win you over. Travelling to Armenia is as gratifying as it is eye-opening; the roads are rough, the transportation can be challenging, and communication may be oppugning for those who don’t know Armenian or Russian. The most popular attraction is the incredible collection of mediaeval monasteries dispersed around the nation, followed closely by a breathtakingly gorgeous terrain ideal for hiking and other outdoor sports.
Geghard, named for the lance that pierced Christ’s side during the Crucifixion, is one of the loveliest monasteries to visit. Alongside the Azat River Gorge, this World Heritage monastery from the fourth century is hewn out of a cliff. The oldest chapel at the monastery was built in the 12th century and its incredibly atmospheric Surp Astvatsatsin in 1215. The cathedral has stunning sculptures and you may explore the chapels around it in great detail. Yerevan, one of the most cheerful cities in the area, is another surprising delight. Together, they provide an engaging and incredibly pleasurable travel experience.
Table of Contents
Armenian Culture and Customs
The history of Armenian culture and customs is quite old. Armenians are warm, hospitable, and compassionate people who respect elders, treat children with kindness and uphold strong family values. Locals like to engage in direct eye contact, face-to-face communication, and physical interaction. It’s also normal to pose direct and in-depth inquiries. Here are a few of the customs that visitors to the nation should be aware of before arriving, as it’s always a good idea to know how to meet and bid farewell in a new place.
- Although Shnorakalutsyun is the correct name for “thank you” in Armenian, many locals substitute it with the short word merci (French) and the endearing word Jan. The latter is untranslatable but conveys a kind attitude.
- When welcomed to a family’s home by an Armenian, come hungry. Armenians are friendly and enjoy hosting visitors from other countries with open arms and a table piled high with as much food as it can hold. An Armenian family will welcome you with a spread of regional fare. You’ll also be forced to try every meal.
- Armenians kiss and clasp hands when they say “hello.” The most typical way for friends and relatives to greet each other in Armenia is to kiss each other on the cheek. The holding of hands by ladies is also prevalent. This is merely a typical manner for close friends to express affection; it is not necessarily a sign that they are dating.
- Holidays in Armenia include Christian and Pagan traditions, both of which have a long history in Armenian culture. The Armenian Apostolic Church has incorporated some of the customs and festivities that people can’t bear to omit. Armenian women eat a salty biscuit before seeing their future spouse whereas, to protect oneself from bad luck and evil, for instance, newlyweds jump over an open fire during the holiday Trndez.
- Locals in Armenia value water as the country faces a water shortage. Numerous national customs that use water represent gratitude, vitality, and good fortune. Vardavar, which has Pagan origins and honours the goddess of purity and water, is one of the most enjoyable holidays. Everybody gets doused with water on this day in the streets of every Armenian town and city. It’s a way to break out from the daily grind and cleanse the body.
Armenian Cuisine
One of the most distinctive and historic cuisines in the world is Armenian. It offers a variety of flavourful foods that are made using methods that date back thousands of years. Every recipe tells a story of ancient Armenia, demonstrating how talented Armenians were and still are at producing bread, kebabs, and other delectable dishes that call for sophisticated cooking methods. Armenian cuisine, which is influenced, by the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Eastern Europe, uses fresh, locally grown ingredients to provide a distinctive flavour.
You will observe the table laden with a wide array of vibrant dishes if you find yourself sharing a meal with an Armenian household. These recipes frequently include grains, herbs, and vegetables, particularly eggplants. Additionally, there is a surplus of meat, including lamb, beef, veal, and pork, thanks to the long history of cattle breeding. Without Lavash (a type of flatbread), no dinner is ever complete! Visit us today to sample the tastiest healthy foods you’ve ever had. Dry fruits are common in Armenia.
Armenia Architecture
Architectural creations with a cultural tie to Armenian people are part of Armenian architecture. The churches from the 7th century and the mediaeval era are deemed to be Armenian architecture’s most significant achievements. Many of the nation’s monuments were constructed in the historically significant regions of Armenia, yet it is challenging to place this architectural style within precise chronological or geographic confines. Although Armenian churches from the mediaeval era represent the country’s most impressive architectural accomplishments, more contemporary styles have been established since the nineteenth century.
Mediaeval Armenian Churches
Before exploring Armenian churches, it is vital to understand what distinguishes them from other churches. Armenian churches of different eras each have their characteristics. The churches’ pointed domes are reminiscent of Greater Ararat’s volcanic funnel. These cupolas, which may be pointed or semi-pointed, are affixed above arched ceilings. The height of the church frequently exceeds its length due to the vertical accent of the entire structure. They have stone ceilings with arches, almost entirely built of basalt or volcanic tuff. If there are carvings or frescoes, they are typically quite elaborate and feature grapevines.
Monumental contemporary buildings
Armenian architecture entered a new stage of development after joining the Russian Empire in the nineteenth century. Yerevan and other significant cities have seen the construction of several architectural wonders. Since basalt was the primary building material at that time, black was a common colour for them.
Best Time to Visit Armenia
Armenia is best visited in the fall/Autumn. Days are long, sunny, and mild, with lovely tree colours, and you can find the harvest’s fruits just about everywhere.
