Gyumri Central Square

The central square in Gyumri (Vardanants Square) is one of the most significant and historic parts of this Armenian city. Gyumri is the second-largest city in Armenia, located in the northwest of the country, 120 km north of Yerevan, near the border with Turkey. A central square is usually the heart of public life in a city, and Gyumri is no exception. This square is a place for meetings, events, and celebrations. It also often serves as an important architectural and historical symbol of the city. Here you will see: In the center of the square stands the monument to Vardan Mamikonian, a national hero of Armenia who led one of the bloodiest battles in Armenian history — the Battle of Avarayr against the Persians. This monument is an important symbol of the city and of all Armenia, and a meeting point for locals and tourists. This is why the central square is called Vardanants. One of the square's features is its singing fountains, which give the place a special atmosphere. The fountains, working together with music, create a unique spectacle, especially in the evening. They operate from May through the end of October. Next to the square is the City Hall building. It is one of the city's important administrative buildings and adds a special charm to the overall look of the square. On both sides of the square are the two main churches of Gyumri — Surp Amenaprkich (Holy Savior) and the Holy Mother of God (also popularly known as Seven Wounds). Another historic building on the square is the October Cinema, one of the first in Armenia. Besides the above, here you will find the iconic café Ponchik Monchik, the national cuisine restaurant Old Armenia, as well as banks, mobile phone shops, and more.