Bari Galoust to Armenia!
This page is designed to give you all the essential information you need before your arrival in Armenia.
On this page, you’ll find a brief overview of Armenia. The following sections will delve into details about the country’s geography, culture, cuisine, health and safety, and transportation.
About Armenia
CAPITAL CITY
Yerevan, founded in 782 B.C.
POPULATION
2.78 million (as of 2022)
RELIGION
Apostolic Christianity
Armenia was the first country
that adopted Christianity as
a state religion in 301
NATIVE LANGUAGE
Armenian (Indo-Europeanlanguage family)Most of inhabitants alsospeak Russian and inpaticular younger peoplealso speak English
TIME ZONE
GMT + 4/ NB:
We do not have time shifts in autumn/summer
CURRENCY
Armenian Dram (AMD)
The approximate exchangerate is (for reference only): 1 EUR = 420-440 AMDdepends on course
The Republic of Armenia
, a small nation in Transcaucasia situated in the northern part of Western Asia, has a rich history, once standing as a powerful empire in the Middle East. Today, Armenia is a peaceful and sunny haven, drawing people with its deep historical roots, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors are charmed by Armenia's warm hospitality, cozy towns, and friendly, welcoming people. Armenia captivates with its delicious, healthy cuisine, diverse natural beauty, and safe environment, making it a destination you'll want to return to time and again.
How to get to Armenia?
You can easily reach Armenia by plane, with flights arriving from over 50 cities worldwide. The country has two airports: Zvartnots International Airport, the main hub located just 12 km from Yerevan’s city center, and the smaller Gyumri Airport. For those preferring a road trip, Armenia is also accessible by land from both Iran and Georgia.
Climate and Weather
Armenia experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. The country's mountainous terrain means that only a small fraction of its land lies below 1,000 meters above sea level. In the higher elevations, the climate is cooler and wetter, with snowfall in winter. Conversely, in the lower regions, rainfall is sparse and summer temperatures can be extremely high.
Visa to Armenia
Armenia offers visa-free entry for many nationalities, while others can obtain an e-Visa or a visa on arrival for stays up to 120 days. If needed, longer stays require a resident permit. Always check the latest entry requirements and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Holidays and Festivals
In Armenia, both secular and religious holidays are celebrated, with shops, markets, cafes, and restaurants remaining open. Non-working holidays include:
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Christmas and New Year: December 31 - January 3
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Army Day: January 28
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International Women’s Day: March 8
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Labor Day: May 1
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Victory and Peace Day: May 9
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Republic Day: May 28
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Constitution Day: July 5
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Independence Day: September 21
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Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day: April 24
Visitors can enjoy various festivals, such as:
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International Children’s Day: June 1
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Yerevan City Day: October 13
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National Wine Festival: November 7
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Easter and Vardavar Water Festival: First Sunday after the vernal equinox
These events offer a rich glimpse into Armenia's vibrant cultural traditions and provide plenty of opportunities for celebration.
Armenian Culture
Armenia is a land steeped in rich cultural heritage and age-old traditions. Though these traditions span thousands of years, they have evolved and adapted to the modern era while remaining profoundly relevant today. Armenian culture encompasses a diverse array of elements—folk dances, literature, cuisine, architecture, customs, and traditions—each unique and intriguing. Each aspect carries its own history and reflects a piece of the national identity, offering a glimpse into the soul of the Armenian people.
Armenian Religion
Armenia has become the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as the state religion in 301. Christianity was first introduced to Armenia much earlier, in the first century (60-68), by two pupils of Christ, the apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus. They arrived in Armenia from Asoristan and Kapadovkia. They baptized majestic families, ordinary people and were known as the “First Enlighteners of the Armenian World.”
Armenian Language
The Armenian language, an ancient member of the Indo-European family, is one of the world's 50 most influential languages and continues to evolve with expanding vocabulary and refined grammar. Influenced by Persian, Greek, and Syrian due to historical and religious interactions, Armenian shares similarities with Persian and Greek. Despite its ancient roots, the Armenian alphabet was created in 405 AD by Mesrop Mashtots. Classical Armenian, or Grabar, remained the literary language until the 19th century, during which various dialects developed. Armenian is known for its complexity and difficulty.
Armenian Music
One of the most important components of Armenian culture is music, which in recent years has brought new forms of music while preserving traditional styles. This is evidenced by the world-class Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra, which performs in the beautifully restored Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall, in the Yerevan Opera House. In addition, several chamber ensembles that are highly popular for their musical and professionalism, including the Komitas quartet, the “Hover” chamber choir, the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia and the “Serenade” orchestra.
Armenian Literature
Literature in Armenia originated in 401 when Mesrop Mashtots created the Armenian alphabet. This event, which took place in the 5th century, is considered to be one of the most important turning points in the life of Armenian literature. Most literary works were created by Movses Khorenatsi. Over the years, elements of literature have changed when stories and myths were passed down through generations. Among the most favourite Armenian writers are William Saroyan – American prose writer and playwright of Armenian origin, educator-democrat, teacher and writer Khachatur Abovyan, Raffi – famous Armenian novelist, Hovhannes Tumanyan – author of a number of realistic poems, Avetik Isaakyan, the greatest poet of the late XIX, and many others.
Armenian Cuisine
Armenian cuisine is as vibrant, colorful, and diverse as the country itself, reflecting the rich mentality and spirit of its people. While Armenia is a place where ancient and modern cultures converge, its culinary traditions remain deeply rooted in the past. National dishes are still prepared using time-honored methods and traditional recipes, often served in clay plates and, in some cases, best enjoyed by hand. This dedication to authenticity ensures that the flavors and techniques of Armenian cuisine continue to thrive, offering a true taste of the nation's heritage.
Contact Us
Koryun Street 19A/35, 0009, Yerevan, Armenia
+374 10 522 701, 522 772, 522 788