Moscow cinema is one of the gems of Yerevan. It was constructed in 1937 by Tiran Yerkanyan and Gevorg Khochar. The construction of this building might be one of the dramatic events in Yerevan’s history, because the new building appeared on the spot of a medieval church demolished by the Soviet authorities. In my opinion, the new building that came to replace the church of Saint Peter and Paul was supposed to become a kind of a new “church” to spread the new religion, communism, through movies.
I like this cinema, especially in July, when it houses the international film festival “Golden Apricot”. Sometimes, you can watch movies in the summer hall of the cinema house. The summer hall is one of the most prominent buildings of Soviet modernism that revived functionalist architecture. It was built using monolithic concrete and the material of construction wasn't concealed. It was an innovative method in those years.
Nevertheless, the fact that this building is an important heritage of Soviet Modernism has not stopped the Armenian authorities to plan its demolition. In 2010 it was decided that it should be destroyed and that the church of St. Paul and Peter should be reconstructed in its place, yet not a single stone from the old demolished church remains. Luckily, the signature campaign organized to save the building managed to stop this process. So I hope that authorities will not dare touch the building any more. Don’t awake the big metal spider located on its courtyard, gentlemen.
Find your way with 162 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Noy Wine Factory Yerevan has tastings — it's where I had the best brandy and wine I ever tasted. What's more: it's built next to a 16th century fortress.
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Crumbs is a small cafe and bakery in Yerevan. It's pretty cozy and comfortable for working. I really love sitting outdoor and people-watching...
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Wine Republic is one of my absolutely favorite places to eat in Yerevan! Everything I have ordered here's been consistently great: from burgers to pad thai to pho.
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The "Modern Art Museum of Yerevan" doesn't look special on the outside but its collection is striking & the entrance is super-cheap! Great for art lovers.
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Cozy Yerevan spot with homemade-style food, great veggie options, and a vintage shop at the entrance. Don’t miss the pumpkin soup, it’s my favorite.
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On Teryan St, Jengyalov Hac serves this Artsakh specialty: flatbread stuffed with wild greens. Hearty, healthy, and best with matsnaprtosh or tan.
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The National Assembly in Yerevan sits atop a medieval cemetery, its eerie past still lingers, whispering through the halls of power.
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Tashir Street is an underground shopping center in the very heart of Yerevan under the Northern Avenue. I usually come here to buy books.
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El Garden Restaurant in Yerevan is on Tsitsernakaberd hill, which has many treehouse domes through which you can enjoy the sunsets while keeping warm!
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The Yerevan Metro system isn't beautiful, but it's a place with people that remind me of Soviet times. I love exploring places close to the stations...
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Aperitivo Yerevan is a great place for wine lovers like me. I also recommend trying their chicken & tried tomato pasta — it's so delicious!
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