Erevan, Armenija
Yerevan, the storied capital of Armenia, is distinguished as one of the oldest continually inhabited cities on the globe. With the majestic Mount Ararat rising in the backdrop, it is the epicenter of the nation’s administrative, cultural, and industrial spheres. Yerevan’s claim as the capital, a role it has played since 1918, marks it as a focal point in Armenia’s lengthy history and as the administrative seat of the Armenian Apostolic Church’s largest diocese.
A Glimpse into Yerevan’s Past
The inception of Yerevan is anchored in the 8th century BC with the construction of the Erebuni fortress by King Argishti I. From its early days as a formidable Urartian city, Yerevan evolved through several iterations—surviving the rise and fall of empires, devastating earthquakes, and the Great Surgun, which saw its populace forcibly displaced to Iran.
The city’s rebirth was marked by its absorption into the Russian Empire in 1828, followed by a significant return of Armenians in the aftermath of the Persian and Ottoman empires’ decline. The city later flourished as the capital of the Democratic Republic of Armenia, becoming a sanctuary for survivors of the Armenian Genocide.
Yerevan Today
In the post-Soviet era, Yerevan has witnessed an architectural and cultural transformation. The city is now peppered with modern amenities, from bustling retail outlets to gourmet restaurants and cafes. The population surged beyond one million by 2011, with Yerevan accounting for over a third of Armenia’s total population, reflecting its significance as the heart of the nation.
The city’s landmarks speak volumes about its history and soul. The Erebuni Fortress stands as the historical bedrock of Yerevan, while the Katoghike Church is among its oldest surviving religious sites. The grandeur of the Saint Gregory Cathedral is complemented by the solemnity of the Tsitsernakaberd memorial, dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide.
The City’s Fabric
Yerevan’s urban tapestry is a vibrant interweave of old and new. The city’s modern growth is visually represented in the Yerevan Cascade, a colossal stairway linking the city center with the Monument neighborhood. The cityscape is also marked by the Opera Theatre, a nucleus for the performing arts, and the Republic Square, which dazzles visitors with its nocturnal beauty.
The verdant embrace of the Hrazdan River gorge splits the city, offering a natural retreat from the urban pace. Meanwhile, the Vernissage market stands as a testament to the city’s thriving arts and crafts scene, drawing both tourists and locals alike.
Climate and Topography
Yerevan’s high altitude endows it with a pleasant oceanic climate, leading to warm summers and snowy winters. The city’s elevation ranges from 865 meters in its lowest troughs to 1,390 meters at its highest peak, making it one of the highest large cities in the world.