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 153 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
If you want to try true Armenian street food — not the polished, tourist-friendly version, but the real local favorite — Zaviki Ghars is the place!
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Discover Yervand Kochar’s avant-garde art at a small museum in Yerevan’s center. Here modernism meets Armenian tradition in surreal sculptures and abstract forms.
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Discover Hin Nork, Yerevan’s hidden, old neighborhood with stone houses, wine cellars, and quiet streets reveal the city’s soul beyond the tourist trail.
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Craving quick, tasty comfort food in Yerevan? Head to Master Class Qabab for good quality kebabs, Angus lahmajun, or a cold draft beer, like locals do.
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The Beatles Pub on Pushkin Street is Yerevan’s lively spot for classic rock, diverse crowds with its warm atmosphere. Best for a fun night out with friends!
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What makes Holy Mother of God Chapel special is how deeply personal it feels. It's incredibly sincere here. No rituals, no ceremony — just honest, quiet belief.
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In Napoletana Armenia I like to sit at the outdoor patio, eat slowly, and just watch people pass by — it’s a quiet front-row seat to Yerevan life.
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Tokhmakh Park is a popular spot for locals to work out, jog, or just relax. You'll find people running around the lake or taking in the peaceful views.
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Hidden beneath Davtashen Bridge, take a walk by graffiti-covered walls and experience the striking contrast between city chaos and quiet riverside.
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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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153 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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