Highlights
- The building stands out for its elegant black tuff carvings and the architectural style characteristic of old Alexandropol.
- The facade's intricate ornaments and wooden doors are considered masterpieces of Gyumri’s traditional craftsmanship.
- Today, it is one of the most popular spots for tourists due to its "cinematic" history and striking beauty.
Nearest Restaurants & Cafés
Florence
Located in the heart of Gyumri’s historic "Kumayri" reserve, Florence is one of the city’s most prominent gastronomic destinations, where luxury and cultural heritage are redefined. It serves as a cultural landmark where guests can immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Gyumri within a sophisticated setting. Whether it is a grand gala, a family celebration, or an intimate dinner, Florence provides the perfect ambiance for every occasion.
Nearest Places
Varem-Marem Art Studio
The “Varem-Marem” art studio in Gyumri is one of those places where, as soon as you walk in, you feel it’s not an ordinary spot. Here, people don’t just look at art — they start creating something themselves, using their hands, colors, and clay. The studio was founded by Mikael and Shushanik Vardparonyan and is located in the old part of the city. The space is filled with colors, small details, and handmade works, creating an atmosphere where it’s easy to step away from the noise of the city and simply create. You can sit down, take a brush or some clay, and try making something on your own — a small decorative door, a colorful souvenir, or just something that will remind you of the day. Everything here feels relaxed and open, and that’s exactly what makes the place special. After leaving the studio, many visitors stop by the wall nearby. It’s completely covered with small, colorful writings. People leave their names there — a simple sign that they’ve been here. Over time, the wall has turned into a collection of memories, filled with thousands of names.
Leo Art Studio
One of the most famous ceramics and art studios in Gyumri, focused on pottery, handmade items, and works by local artists. It is not only a workshop but also a showroom where you can buy handmade dishes, vases, figurines, and watch the creative process. The studio brings together Gyumri-based artists in one place and often collaborates with other craft makers (for example, Mia Kaus’s handmade frogs).
Gyumri Central Park (Gorki Park)
Gyumri’s Central Park, also known as Gorky Park, is located in the central part of the city, at the beginning of Gayi Street. It is a spacious green area that combines leisure, entertainment, and cultural significance. The park is known for its tree-lined spaces, playgrounds, and numerous monuments and sculptures. A white colonnaded structure built in a classical Greek style stands out as one of its main landmarks, offering scenic views of the Black Fortress and the Mother Armenia monument. Within the park is the former theater building where the opera “Anush” was first performed in 1912, marking the beginning of Armenian opera. The park is also famous as a filming location for the well-known movie “The Tango of Our Childhood,” scenes of which are still remembered and recreated by visitors. The name “Gorky Park” is commonly used today, but it originally derives from the Russian word “gorka” (hill), as the park was built on small hills. Only later was it associated with the writer Maxim Gorky
The “Lux” Barbershop
The “Lux” Barbershop in Gyumri is one of the city’s oldest and most well-known barbershops, often considered among the first of its kind. Founded in 1941, it has preserved its unique atmosphere to this day. Over the years, the barbershop has served not only as a place for grooming but also as a social hub where people gathered, talked, and shared news. It has become an important part of Gyumri’s urban culture, reflecting traditional barbering practices. The barbershop stands out with its retro interior, featuring vintage chairs, mirrors, and tools that create a distinctive environment, transporting visitors back to mid-20th century Gyumri. Today, it remains an interesting stop for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the city’s everyday cultural life.
