|
Armenia - acknowledged as one of the cradles of civilization -
is a beautiful country with a sophisticated people and a long and
cultured history. As a result, Armenia is an intriguing tourist
destination. Numerous monuments and masterpieces of the Ancient
era and Middle Ages can be found throughout the country. The monasteries
of Haghpat and Sanahin have been given the status of world heritage
sites. Tourism in Armenia is rooted in the country's historical
landmarks and natural attractions such as the water resorts of Lake
Sevan, the hot springs of Arzni and Jermuk, the forests of Dilijan,
Aghveran, Tsaghkadzor, Bjurakan and Gugark, and the mountainous
natural caves and cliffs of the Southeast region. The 5165 meter
Mount Ararat, geographically located in Turkey, is a national symbol
of Armenia and is visible from much of the Southwest region. In
1997 Armenia became a member of the World Tourism Organization.
The capital city Yerevan, which is nestled in the shadow of the
snow-capped heights of the majestic mount Ararat, where the Biblical
Noah's Ark first landed escaping the Great Flood, is the main tourist
gateway. As you explore the many interesting sights in Yerevan,
you will learn about the culture and history of one of the world's
oldest nations. You can gain further insights into Armenian cultural
achievements at museums, theaters and concert halls. Theater in
Armenia has a tradition dating back more than 2,000 years. You can
attend a wide choice of performances ranging from concerts to puppet
theater and jazz music.
At the top of Mesrop Mashtots Avenue, the main artery of the capital
city Yerevan, you will find the Matenadaran - the Institute of Ancient
Manuscripts. Matenadaran boasts the world's largest collection of
ancient manuscripts (over 16,000). The collection includes many
valuable works of foreign philosophers, some of which have survived
only in their Armenian translation. Among these are works by Aristotle,
Eusebius of Caesarea and many others.
Art aficionados can visit the National Art Gallery displaying its
rich collections of works by European and Russian artists. This
impressive building located in the Republic Square is also home
to the largest national collection of paintings by famous Armenian
artists such as Ayvazovsky and Sarian. The spirit of creativity
is fostered and promoted in Armenians from the young age. Hence,
the Children's Art Gallery, which was the first permanent exhibition
of its sort in the world.
Images in this section are by: Matthew Karanian,
Hrair "Hawk" Khacherian, Robert Kurkjian, Vahe Shahinian
and Bruce C. Strong
|
