Long, long ago, when Mt Gutanasar in the north of Armenia erupted, the lava flow accidentally started to chase after a leopard. However, she managed to escape by running long distances. When she reached Yerevan, she saw a gorge and decided to jump off there. The lava was about to catch her. The leopard crossed itself and jumped into the gorge. God had mercy on her and made the lava crystallize. Unfortunately, God was busy creating the Universe at that time and was not paying so much attention. So a drop of lava fell on the poor animal and she became petrified in an instant.
You can still see her stone statue in Hrazdan river gorge. It’s guarding the entrance or exit of the tunnel that guides people from the city center to the gorge. By the way, I forgot to mention the same god decided to create a passageway so that our leopard could escape from lava, but it (to avoid gender discrimination I use “it”) didn’t manage to make it at the right moment.
Well, since I knew nothing about this beautiful statue I had to invent this story. If you like to evolve the story visit this spot in Hrazdan river gorge. Even if you are not good in inventing the stories, you can still come here; the stone may speak to you.
Hrazdan Gorge
AMD
free
Find your way with 162 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Mama Jan" in Yerevan is an intercultural space with food for body and soul. They also hold cultural & spiritual events. But that strawberry lassi...!
by
The "Botanical Garden" in Yerevan is great not only for nice longs walks in a mini-forest, but also for witnessing an impressive Soviet-era greenhouse...
by
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.
by
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...
by
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.
by
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.
by
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.
by
On Teryan St, Jengyalov Hac serves this Artsakh specialty: flatbread stuffed with wild greens. Hearty, healthy, and best with matsnaprtosh or tan.
by
The National Assembly in Yerevan sits atop a medieval cemetery, its eerie past still lingers, whispering through the halls of power.
by
Tashir Street is an underground shopping center in the very heart of Yerevan under the Northern Avenue. I usually come here to buy books.
by
El Garden Restaurant in Yerevan is on Tsitsernakaberd hill, which has many treehouse domes through which you can enjoy the sunsets while keeping warm!
by
162 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 162 Insider Tips