Matenadaran | is the museum housing sample manuscripts and early translations, dedicated to Mesrop Mashtots who created the Armenian alphabet in 405 A.D. Some interesting facts to note is that the Armenian alphabet:
- initially had 36 letters (2 more letters were added much later to make the alphabet one of the most complete in the world),
- was created as a prayer with each of the letters starting a word in the prayer (apart from the letter “r” where the word ended in it)
The museum is situated at the end of the main artery Mashtots Ave (also known as Prospect Ave during the soviet era). There is a giant statue of Mesrop Mashtots in the front of the building.
Operates Tue – Sat 10:00am till 4:00pm
National Art Gallery | is the main gallery and displays a large variety of International and local artwork within its seven floors. It is located right on Republic Square, close to the fountains.
Operates Tue – Sun 11:00am till 5:30pm
Martiros Saryan Museum | is only 2 minutes walk away from Envoy Hostel on the corner of Saryan and Tumanyan streets. Saryan is a popular 20th century artist with his colourful paintings, some with an oriental influence but mostly Armenian landscape themes.
Operates Fri – Tue 10:30am till 4:30pm
Click here for the website.
Parajanov Museum | houses a great collection of Sergei Paradjanov’s work of arts. The artist is famous for his quirky and eccentric artwork as well as his infamous cinematography for instance “The Colour of Pomegranates” is one of his creations.
15/16 Dzoragyugh Poghots, Yerevan
The museum is open 7 days 10:30am till 5:00pm
For more info check their website.
Cafesjian Centre for Arts | is one of the newest additions to Yerevan, is a superb collection of contemporary art. Situated at the top of the Cascade steps, its worth going there even if it is just to see the outdoor artwork on the steps and admire the view of Yerevan from the top of the steps.
The centre also presents special exhibitions and frequently has events such as concerts. For up to date information on events check their website.
Operates Tue – Thur: 10:00am – 5:00pm | Fri – Sun: 10:00am – 8:00pm