Harichavank, Gyumri City Tour, Dzitoghtsyan Museum, Black Fortress

1. Harichavank Monastery

The Harich Monastery Complex is located in the Shirak region, on the northern slope of the Aragats mountain. It consists of two churches: St. Gregory and St. Astvatsatsin, a vestibule, a bell tower, depositories, a chapel, a school and other buildings. No clear information has been preserved about the construction of the first church of the monastery, but the analysis of the inscriptions on the walls proves that the church dates back to the 7th century. Harichavank was an important educational center, that flourished especially in the 13th century. It is another sample of Armenian medieval architectural thought, a reflection of the spirit of the time and a historical witness. The famous Armenian writer Avetik Isahakyan received his primary education at the local school.

2. Gyumri city tour

The second city of Armenia, Gyumri, which was also called Leninakan, Alexandrapol, and in the original Armenian version Kumayri, was inhabited since the 3rd millennium. Having travelled a very long historical path, Gyumri presents itself today with its Old Town, which is best preserved in the city centre. Every building in Gyumri has its history, which is rich in Armenian medieval architectural spirit. This tourist city is attractive because of its beautiful buildings, streets, churches, and, of course, its unrepeatable, unique Gyumri mood; after all, Gyumri is the centre of humour, arts and crafts of Armenia. The three famous churches of Gyumri and the Black Fortress are also included in the city tour.

3. Dzitoghtsyan Museum

The Dzitoghtsyan House-Museum is located in the center of Gyumri and showcases the city's daily life, culture, and history. The museum is housed in the Dzitoghtsyan family's mansion, built in 1872, which is known for its beautiful combination of red and black tuff stone. In 1984, the building was turned into a museum, displaying the self-governing structure, craftsmanship, social life, and spiritual culture of Alexandropol (now Gyumri) from the 1860s to the 1920s. The exhibition halls also feature restored interiors of wealthy and artisan households from that era.

4. Black fortress

The Black Fortress is a defensive fortress built of black stone. It was built in 1834 after the Second Russian-Persian War. The drainage system, which protected the castle's walls from rain, deserves special attention. The Black Fortress, now turned into a tourist center, reminds visitors of its military past.