One day in Ijevan: what to do, what to see, where to go
Ijevan is an ideal place for lovers of the measured pace of resort towns. The city is surrounded by picturesque mountains, reminiscent of Alpine landscapes. However, it is also worth recognizing that the rich natural diversity is not the only attraction of Ijevan, here are also many things available for visiting
What to see
If all roads lead to Rome, then all bridges lead to Ijevan … and there are already 9 of them in the city! – Quite a lot, given the small area occupied by the city. Ijevan bridges do not have bizarre shapes and are not examples of architectural structure, BUT they definitely have their own charm. Considering that one part of the Ijevan residential areas stretches high on the mountain slopes, while the center is concentrated in the valley of the Aghstev River, it is the bridges that connect the divided parts of the city together.
This art gallery is a hidden landmark of Ijevan, which is unlikely to be known to travelers who have been brought to this authentic town by fate. Of course, you won’t be able to see the world’s masterpieces with your own eyes, but you can definitely see an unorthodox view of the world around you.
The city park is the heart of Ijevan, thanks to which it is called the “city of 100 sculptures”. The International Sculpture Symposium turned Ijevan into an open-air studio, and the central garden was decorated with sculptures by world artists. The symposium was held from 1985 to 1991. For 6 years, Ijevan hosted guests, and every year during the symposium for a month and a half, the central park of Ijevan turned into an open-air studio. During this period, 95 sculptors from 20 countries of the world took part in it.
The Ijevan Museum of Local History is the physical embodiment of the history of the region. The museum was founded in 1955 and has a rich fund of exhibits. Valuable archaeological finds were collected bit by bit by the museum staff. Some belong to the Urartian historical period, others to the third and second millennia BC, and others to the establishment of the Soviet era.
One of the sights of the city and the pride of local residents is the Ijevan Arboretum. On an area of 9 hectares, about 700 species of trees and shrubs – a paradise for nature lovers. The local climate allows growing coniferous and deciduous (including evergreen species) trees from all continents of the world, which, in fact, are represented here with the exception of Australia. An ideal place for a picnic on the banks of the Aghstev River during the day, and admiring the stars at night.
The Ijevan Wine and Brandy Factory is one of the first wineries in Armenia, which was founded during the Soviet era in 1951 and has been the hallmark of the Tavush region ever since. Today, the Ijevan Wine and Brandy Factory produces high-quality cognacs and has a wide range of wine and vodka products. Only here you can taste unique fruit wines such as: quince, blackberry, cherry, dogwood, etc.
If you are in Ijevan or its surroundings, then do not miss its main attraction – the statue of Mother Armenia. The monument was installed in 1971. It is located a five-minute drive from the center at the northern gates of the city and symbolizes the strength of the Armenian people.
Things to do
Chibukhchyan Art Studio is a creative handicraft center engaged in the manufacture of souvenirs and household items representing the Chibukhchyan brand. This offer is for those who love fine works of stained glass art, carpet weaving, textiles and silk. Here you can also take part in master classes and make your own stained glass products, from interior items to household utensils, handmade carpets and tapestries, bags, hats, clothing accessories and much more.
Who is Vahe Mailyan? – A fourth-generation carpenter, specialized tour guide and dedicated fan of what he loves. If you want to get acquainted with the art of processing wood and other materials, creating jewelry and other products, then the Mailyan studio offers courses with a comprehensive program where you can get acquainted with the nuances of woodworking, processing natural stones and making stone sculptures. Courses are held in a studio in the center of Ijevan, and anyone can take part in master classes.
The social and educational center of the Tavush diocese “Telik” is an organization that promotes traditional areas of handicraft art. “Telik” is engaged in various types of handicrafts: carpet weaving, needlework, knitting, batik, silk weaving, needlework. “Telik” holds master classes for everyone, presenting the crafts of Tavush. If you wish you can study the type of needlework you like for 1.5-2 hours under the guidance of a master, and take away what have done as a keepsake.
Joiner’s House “Հյուսնի Տուն” is a carpentry school-workshop. Here they make high-quality, modern and original furniture in the loft style with metal bases. “Հյուսնի Տուն” also offers to try you as a carpenter at free carpentry lessons and anyone can participate in the process of creating furniture.
Where to go
Whole grain academy “Kenats Hats” is a place where the past and the future come together. The modern minimalist interior is harmoniously intertwined with authentic Armenian traditional recipes that were prepared by our grandmothers from whole grain flour and homemade ingredients, without artificial additives.
Yellow dream is a city cafe in the heart of Ijevan – one of the colorful corners where every piece of furniture has its own history. The cafe often organizes concerts and various events. And if, while walking through the streets of the city, you meet a yellow van, do not pass by, stock up on goodies and drinks from the guys from the Yellow Dream
Would you like to have a bird’s-eye view of Ijevan? – Then be sure to visit the TEVRA Teahouse! Arrange a cozy tea party by the fire, on a sheer cliff, from where a wonderful view of the city of Ijevan opens. Here you can also stay overnight in one of the 6 houses with a capacity of up to 4 people.
Novel art cafe is a unique atmosphere, part of a modern urban lifestyle diluted with notes of romanticism, taken from the most beloved books. Do you want to extend the pleasure of your visit? – in the cafe there is an opportunity to get acquainted with the work of local women entrepreneurs, and even purchase unique, authentic gifts.
Political cafe is a place for those who appreciate the taste of quality cuisine and comfortable rest. Exquisite decor, moderate lighting – a real place of calm and comfort in the heart of Ijevan.