Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex

Rising on Tsitsernakaberd Hill, the Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex, also known locally as "Hamalir," is one of the most recognizable symbols of modern Yerevan. This multifunctional space hosts major sporting events, concerts by world stars, exhibitions, and conferences, drawing thousands of visitors from across Armenia and abroad. It was originally called the "Yerevan Sports and Concert Complex." In 1999, it was renamed in honor of Karen Demirchyan, former speaker of the Armenian parliament, who contributed significantly to its construction and reconstruction. The complex was designed by a group of talented Armenian architects: Artur Tarkhanyan, Spartak Khachikyan, Hrachya Poghosyan, and Gurgen Mushegyan. Construction began in 1980 and was completed in 1983. The building's unique design, resembling a blooming flower, became a calling card of Yerevan and a testament to the creative genius of Armenian architects. The complex can hold between 6,000 and 10,000 spectators depending on the hall configuration. Thanks to its modular design, the hall can be transformed for various events — from sporting competitions to concerts and exhibitions. What makes it unique is the spectator stand, which can rotate 180 degrees toward one stage or the other.