ARMENIA THE FIRST COUNTRY TO ACCEPT CHRISTIANITY
ARMENIA THE FIRST COUNTRY TO ACCEPT CHRISTIANITY
The Republic of Armenia (formerly Hayk) is a former Soviet Union country bordering Turkey, Georgia, Iran, and Azerbaijan, and its capital is Yerevan. Armenia is a transcontinental country (partly in Europe and most of its land in west Asia), and is one of the six countries in the Caucasus region. What is special about Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity worldwide in 301 A.D., is its unique UNESCO World Heritage Sites, unspoiled nature, tasty cuisine, and renowned brandy, and wines. Additionally, almost every item in Armenia bears the symbol of Mount Ararat (the land of the final resting place of the Ark of Noah. Historically, Mount Ararat was in the territory of the Armenian Highland (currently, it borders Armenia). However, in 1921/1923, a peace treaty (Treaty of Kars) drafted between Turkey and the Soviet Union gifted the land to Turkey.
Armenia is a Christian nation and has a population of about 2,777,976.00. It is rich in copper, zinc, iron, silver, lead, gold, and other valuable reserves of rare metals. Apart from that, whenever someone mentions Armenia, many people immediately think of the Armenian genocide, similar to the mention of Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina. However. there is so much more to discover in this unique and beautiful country. Please continue reading to learn more about Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity as a state religion.
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APPLYING ONLINE FOR AN ARMENIA E-VISA
Applying for an Armenian visa was straightforward. Many countries qualify for the option to apply for a visa on arrival or in advance. If this is you, visit the official Armenian Visa website and fill out and complete the online application form. Additionally, you must submit a passport-size photo (no more than six months old), scanned copies of your biometric page in your passport, a recent bank statement or source of funds (Morocco and Azerbaijan did not request this), and other documents stipulated.
Further, you pay via credit card and wait 3 to 5 business days for a response. Once you are successful, they will email you a soft copy. You then print or scan (soft copy) because you must present it at the airline at check-in before being allowed to board the aircraft.
Note; if your country is one of the few countries allowed to apply online or on arrival. Then, having a U.S.A., Canadian, or Australian Visa or resident of the European Union countries would be one of the prerequisites. Besides the requested documents, having two blank pages in the passport was a stipulation on the application. I had only one blank page and received an entry stamp with no issue. I received no physical visa in my passport on arrival.
ENTRY INTO ARMENIA – What an Experience with the Border Officers!
From Azerbaijan, I returned to Georgia and entered Armenia by bus from Tbilisi, Georgia. Because there is no open airspace between Armenia and Azerbaijan and no crossings by land between their borders. Therefore, it is the cheapest and most scenic option.
Consequently, I took a pre-arranged bus from Tbilisi to Yerevan, Armenia. The journey takes about six hours, but more if you experience problems at the border. It was quite scenic in the countryside, and where none of the other two countries had snow, some parts of Armenia were snow-covered. Along the way, we stopped at the Georgian border for the departure stamp and washroom and snack breaks. I just love road trips!
On arrival at the Armenian border, all passengers exited the bus, took all our luggage, and entered the building that houses the immigration department. Everyone had to line up to be processed by the officers, similar to the airport. After processing and receiving the entry stamp, they scan, and or search your luggage before you exit the building. You then reload them back on the bus.
From my observation, the process was quite smooth, and the three male officers seemed very thorough but quick and pleasant… let’s say the atmosphere seemed light. When we arrived, there were two other buses, so we all lined up according to first arrivals.
ENTRY INTO ARMENIA – Be prepared for stress if you have an Azerbaijan entry stamp inside your passport!
I stood in line, and all seemed fine. When it was my turn, I approached the officer and handed him my visa, passport, and itinerary, which included hotel booking and flight departure from Armenia (something I never do on entry unless they request it).
Anyhow, he took my passport, flipped through the pages, looked at all the stamps, showed it to the officer next to him, then looked at the cover and continued flipping through the pages (the norm at many airports). All this time, he seemed calm and never gave off any hostility.
He then asked if I visited Azerbaijan, and I said yes. Suddenly, he got up with all the documents and went next door to another officer, and they talked. He returned and calmly asked, “What were you doing in Azerbaijan?” I said “Vacation.” He kept everything and said, “Stand aside until I call you”. He began to process other visitors in the line, so I stood there and calmly waited.
During this time, I was not nervous or anxious because I researched before applying for the visa. I learned that both Azerbaijan and Armenia thoroughly interrogate travellers who have been to the other country. I also read that if you do not have strong nerves, you can feel intimidated, and they can refuse to grant you entry on some other technicality.
I stood there, and I calmly waited. However, I was more concerned about the other passengers already seated on the bus and waiting for me. I am sure they were annoyed and eager to continue on their journey.
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Anyhow, the officer left me for last, and after clearing all other travellers, he called me back to the desk. All this time, his mannerisms and body language were never hostile, but I sensed that this was more an intimidation tactic and punishment for visiting their enemy’s country. Especially since I dared to leave Azerbaijan the same day and then enter Armenia.
He then asked the purpose of the visit, and I said, “Vacation.’ He kept flipping through my passport again as though he was killing time or deciding what to do. Then he asked where I would be staying and when was I leaving, even though he had all the documents in front of him, and again, I answered him. He got up, walked to another room once again, then returned.
Continuing, he asked me what I would do in Armenia, and I said, “Sightsee and then write about it.” He responded, asking, “Are you a writer?” I said, “Yes, I have a website, and I am a travel writer and author, and I have my most recent book with me” (Before Lift-Off). Further, I asked him if he would like to see it, and he said yes. His eyes lighted up when I gave it to him, and he said, “You write this book?” I said, “Yes.” He looked at the name on the cover, then inside my passport, I guess, to see if it was the names corresponded, and then showed it to another officer nearby.
The officer smiled, then said the oddest thing …never heard from any immigration officer before. He said. “Submit your WhatsApp number.” Strangely enough, he did not ask for an email address, Facebook profile, or a telephone number. He asked specifically for my WhatsApp number (I think this was to scare me into thinking they could view and read my messages, just in case I bad-mouthed Armenia, who knows).
Subsequently, he stamped my passport and, with a sly smile, said, “Welcome to Armenia.” I said, “Thank you, but this was the first country I have visited and encountered so much trouble getting in.” He just smiled.
From my perspective, I honestly think if I had waited until I arrived to apply for the visa on entry, they would have refused me entry for some frivolous reasons, just my gut feeling. The option was there to do so, but I opted to apply for it before arrival. Another thing I assessed from this, and would advise other travellers; is to visit Armenia first, then Azerbaijan, or not to visit them both around the same time. I think it would be the wiser thing to do. Because other travellers in Yerevan told me they know of people who were denied entry into Armenia because of an Azerbaijan stamp. It took me almost forty minutes when everyone else took less than five.
After that, I scanned my luggage and went to the bus. The driver and other passengers were happy and relieved to see me rejoin them. Finally, we were on our way to the city of Yerevan.
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EXITING ARMENIA
On exiting the country, I departed from the Yerevan Zvartnots International Airport, the biggest airport in Armenia. I had no issue with the T.S.A. officers on departure. They stamped my passport, no questions asked, and I was on my way. The airport looked fairly small and basic, at least the departure section (I am clueless about how the arrivals section looks). The area for the T.S.A., duty-free shops, and departure gates for all airlines were small and compact. When it was time to depart and board the plane, they shuttled us to the plane/tarmac via bus (there was no jet bridge).
TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO/FROM THE CITY OF YEREVAN
From/to the Zvartnots International Airport to/from Yerevan city center is approximately 15 – 20 minutes. Taxis are the most expensive, yet very affordable, and cost about 5000 AMD (11 USD). Additionally, there are other transport options like the Yerevan Airport transfers (minibus #201) cost 300 – 400 AMD (under 1 USD). It takes about 40 – 45 minutes to/from the city and is the slowest and cheapest option.
There is no Uber taxi because it is illegal in Armenia. However, they have GG Taxi and Yandex taxi App services, which are about 22000-2500 AMD (5 – 7 USD). and cheaper than the taxis. I highly recommend Yandex Taxi. It is one of my favourites in any country it is present.
ABOUT THE CITY OF YEREVAN
Yerevan is the 13th capital and largest city in Armenia, with a population of about 1.1 million. It is also one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Historically, King Argishti founded it in 782 BC (yes, it is much older than Rome). Yerevan is also known as the “Pink City” because the buildings are made of tufa volcanic rocks from the area and reflect a rosy pink hue. It is situated along the Hrazdan River and is Armenia’s cultural, political, and industrial center.
Moreover, Yerevan is a cozy and unusual city with gorgeous architecture. It has a café culture. Just about everywhere can find a café, especially because Armenians love coffee.
Furthermore, UNESCO named Yerevan the 2012 World Book Capital because of its drive to promote books and encourage a reading culture. The city is also the site of a 16th-century Roman Fort and 18th-century Turkish ruins and mosque. Yerevan is a safe, clean, vibrant, and developed city. It has many cafes, shops, restaurants, stores, beautiful parks and interesting sites.
Even more, it seems to be a popular tourist destination because I met visitors from many countries like the Philippines, China, Oman, Ukraine, Canada, London, Russia, and others. However, similar to Baku, most were from Iran, India, and Pakistan. Because Armenia is also a transcontinental country (partly in Eastern Europe and West Asia), it is but a short flight away.
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From what I saw, the authorities went all out and “burst the budget” for Christmas decorations in the city. Day and night decorators throughout the city were busy hanging lights and decorations at almost every park, street, tree, pole, and building. Why not!? After all, it is a Christian country and the first to accept Christianity. Even though I left before they completely decorated the city, what I saw was amazing, even though the total display was for a bit of a later date into December. Overall, Yerevan is a city with charm, not too hectic or boring. It was just the way I like a city.
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You Should know about Armenia
- The languages spoken – Armenian (the official language), Russian, and English (limited).
- Official currency – Armenian Dram.
1 USD = 388.49 AMD
1 Euro = 436.32 AMD
1 GBP = 506.48 AMD
- Armenia was the first country on earth to accept Christianity in 301 AD. They were secretly practicing it even before this century. As a consequence, they built the first cathedral, which is the oldest cathedral on earth. The Holy Etchmiadzin Church (aka the Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) was the first cathedral built in the world in the 4th century. It is also the most-visited pilgrimage site in the world.
- Two of Jesus’ apostles; Thaddaeus and Bartholomew, founded the Armenian Apostolic Church. They preached Christianity in Armenia between 40 – 60 AD.
- Chess is a mandatory part of the curriculum in all Armenian schools for second, third, and fourth-graders. Because of this, they have produced many chess champions.
- Armenia has its own Alphabet and is one of the most advanced in the world, along with Georgian and Korean. The Armenian Alphabet has 36 letters and was created in 405 – 406 AD by a scholar and Monk Mesrop Mashtots. Scientists consider it one of the most advanced worldwide. I find it looks very similar to the Georgian language.
- According to Armenian history and traditions, the name Armenia is from the Bible. Armenia, (formerly Hayk and Hayastan) got its name from Aram, a descendant of Hayk, the great-great-grandson of Noah. So you can see why Armenia to this day claims Mount Ararat (the final resting place of Noah’s ark).
- Armenians bury the umbilical cord of their girl child in the yard of the house, but the boys in the church courtyard. They believe this act will influence the girl into a devoted family life and the boy a successful social activist and religious figure.
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- Armenia is home to the world’s oldest winery. In 2011, archaeologists discovered what is presumed to be the oldest winery on earth (6100 years old), near the village of Areni.
- The locals love visitors.
- Armenia’s biggest enemy is its immediate neighbour Azerbaijan (and vice versa), so you cannot travel directly from/to these countries.
- Here are some famous celebrities whose ancestry is Armenian; the Kardashians (even though born in the U.S.A., have Armenian ancestry). Cher (father was born in Armenia), Garry Kimovich Kasparov – the greatest chess player of all time (mother was born in Armenia), and Giorgio Armani (father was born in Armenia), among others.
- Armenia has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites listings. Surprisingly. its popular Lavash (a soft, thin flatbread) is on UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. Whereas, the six others on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list are: 1. Geghard Monastery, 2. Zvartnots Archaeological Site, 3. Sanahin Monastery, 4. Echmiadzin Cathedral 5. Azat Valley, and 6. Armenia Haghpat Monastery.
- The longest Aerial Tramway worldwide is in Armenia, according to Guinness World Records. The longest, non-stop, double-track cable car is the Tatev Aerial Tramway (18,871ft long), called Wings of Tatev. It connects the village of Halidzor to the Tatev Monastery.
- When Armenians meet and greet someone (both males and females), they kiss on the cheek and or hold hands. Do not misinterpret it for intimacy.
- Apricot (aka Armenian apple) is an important fruit in Armenia. They consider Armenia to be the homeland of apricots, and who introduced it to Europe. You can find apricot products everywhere. Even the colour of the fruit is on the country’s flag.
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- Armenians do not allow anyone, except immediate family, to meet newborns before the completion of 40 days. They believe that newborns are sensitive, and this precaution protects them from medical issues and contagious diseases. Sounds strange, but it is one of their existing customs. They also swaddle newborns in warm, sifted earth. It is an act to keep them warm.
- Lake Sevan is the largest lake in the Caucasus, and also one of the largest freshwater, high-altitude lakes worldwide.
- Armenia leads the way towards achieving 100% natural gas in their cars. Presently, more than three-quarters of the cars in Armenia use natural gas instead of diesel or oil.
- More than six million Armenians fled the country since the genocide. Almost six million people have left the country, as compared to only three million, give or take, still living in the region.
- Armenians cherish silence at night because even though the city has a vibrant nightlife, between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am is meant for silence and rest. Therefore, playing loud music or musical instruments, singing, etc., during these hours is frowned upon. Failure to adhere to this rule comes with a fine from the police if caught being a public nuisance.
- In September 2008, in the village of Areni, archaeologists discovered the oldest leather-hide shoe in the world, aged over 5,500 years. They found the right foot, size 37th, single-piece-made leather shoe with fiber stuffed inside and with well-preserved laces.
- Armenia has Storks Villages, and every year, several Armenian villages experience an influx of over 600 pairs of breeding storks. Therefore, the villagers have formed a community for these habitats and to protect the birds.
- Mount Ararat, the mountain of the final resting place of Noah’s Ark, is a sacred place for Armenians. The local Armenians worship it and believe it is why they do not experience strong earthquakes. It is not part of Armenia anymore and has been disputed with Turkey since the Armenian genocide. During the genocide, 1.5 million people were killed (at the hands of the Turks, which the Turks deny). Notwithstanding, there are conflicts between the Turks and Kurds over this mountain.
ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF ARMENIA
Armenians are called the “People of Ararat”. They love, respect, and are hospitable to visitors. Armenians are among my top 10 list of most hospitable people in Europe and the wider world. Even though Albania is the most hospitable country in Europe, Armenia is very similar. They are very humble, kind, helpful, and communicative. Additionally, Armenians are very expressive people, both males and females, and while communicating, they always make eye contact.
My first contact with an Armenian was on the bus from Georgia. There were about four of them, and the remainder were visitors. They spoke no English but were still very polite, and from their body language, they seemed very welcoming. As previously mentioned, the border officers were my second. Even though they tried to play “bad cop” they were never aggressive and seemed very polite and cool (the eyes never lie) had it not been for that Azerbaijan stamp inside my passport…ha-ha.
Along the way, the bus stopped for bathroom or meal breaks, and I observed the people were always smiling or staring at me whenever I passed by. I took this as a good sign because I still did not know if Armenians were aggressive, unfriendly, or otherwise. However, my stance was to play it cool, and wait and see.
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Upon arrival at my hotel, the owner brought me tea and fruit, and she insisted that I leave my luggage for her husband to take them to my room. Everyone, especially the security forces on the streets, were always super-friendly whenever I passed by. Sometimes, whenever I passed by, I said “Hello”, and they answered loudly the same, or in Armenian. Other times, I passed without saying hello, not knowing if it was the same batch I previously greeted, and to my surprise, I got a loud “Hello” from them, which I reciprocated, smiled, and continued on my way.
Basically, everyone I encountered in Yerevan was quite friendly. Whether at the supermarkets, stores, on the streets, restaurants, drivers, or anywhere else, they were always pleasant and hospitable. Therefore, I had no problem getting assistance with directions or asking anyone to take my photos, even if they spoke little or no English. All Armenians were genuinely nice to me. Sending special hello to Anna and family, Vaghinak, and Siran, continue to be hospitable to all.
ARMENIA SAFETY AND SECURITY
Regarding security and safety in Armenia, I felt safe throughout my stay. Needless to say, it felt like any regular day in any safe country. Because I walked alone day and night, and even as early as 4:30 a.m. to designated areas to meet tour buses for out-of-the-city tours. Besides, there were always some police officers somewhere on the streets, but not in any intimidating way, as if something was about to “go down”.
Suffice it to say, I experienced no pickpockets or petty crimes and heard of no robberies or other criminal activities during my stay. Even though citizens over the age of 18 have the right to own a gun in Armenia.
During my stay, I went about my business in the city fearlessly. Similar to when I did tours to the rural areas. I felt totally safe.
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MUST HAVE ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR ALL TRAVELLERS
These are my essentials and gadgets I can never do without for a smooth and stress-free vacation. All are available on Amazon for direct links to the products, information and suggested uses.
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HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Prices for everything in Armenia were fairly inexpensive. In comparison to its two neighbours next door, it was similar in price to Georgia but more expensive than Azerbaijan. Despite this, the meals, accommodation, and all public transportation (metro, minibuses, trolleybuses, and taxis) were reasonably priced and perfect for the budget traveller.
ABOUT ARMENIA FOOD
Armenian cuisine is influenced by some of its neighbouring countries and by the conquerors and traders of the Middle East and Europe. Its cuisines feature locally grown produce, spices, and livestock. Their dishes comprise eggplants, grains, vegetables, a variety of spices, and an abundance of lamb, beef, veal, and pork. Due to their self-sufficiency in the farming and rearing of livestock. Armenian cuisine is fresh, tasty, and unforgettable.
You will not find salt and black pepper, only, as seasoning for taste in Armenia. Just simply delicious and filling dishes, that they most times serve with Lavash (flatbread). For these reasons, I truly enjoyed the Armenian dishes, outstanding. Below are some traditional dishes you must partake of in Armenia.
ARMENIA FOODS YOU MUST TRY
- Harissa (a thick porridge made with Korkot, which is a dried or roasted wheat, together with mushrooms, lamb, or chicken. This dish is special to Armenians because it symbolizes their courage during Ottoman rule).
- Dzhash (this is a tomato-based stew made with legumes, meat, vegetables, and spices. They traditionally cooked it in an underground clay oven called a Tonir).
- Armenian Dolma (a Balkan favourite, where they stuff grape leaves with a mixture of meat, rice, or vegetables. Those cooked in olive oil without meat are called Yalanci, which means an imitation).
- Lavash (a traditional Armenian flatbread made with wheat flour, salt, water, and sourdough starter. They then roll them flat and stick them to the inside of a clay oven called a Tonir). As previously mentioned, this meal, believe it or not, is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
- Topik (these are dumplings made with chickpeas. The dough comprises cooked chickpeas, tahini, and potatoes. Afterward, they then fill them with dried blackcurrants, pine nuts, minced onions, tahini, allspice, sugar, and salt are added for taste and flavour. They then boil the dumplings and serve cold at room temperature).
- Manti (thumb-sized, crispy-baked dumplings filled with special ground meat and onions served in spicy tomato sauce with a garlic-flavoured yogurt on the side).
- Basturma (a popular Armenian delicacy where they season beef or lamb with fenugreek, turmeric, red peppers, allspice, and cumin and air-dried until cured. Then they serve it in a sandwich with onions and pickles beef).
- Ghapama (this is a pumpkin dish where they gut a pumpkin and fill it with cooked rice, raisins, chopped nuts, dried fruits, sugar, or honey, then bake it until tender. It is popular at Christmas or New Year’s Eve and is loved so much by Armenians that it has a song in its honour).
- Korovats – Armenian barbecue (a meat dish made mainly of pork, sometimes lamb, and beef. The variations of cooking are different, sometimes it is cooked on a grill and other times in a pan).
- Armenian Kufta/Kyufta (ground meat with milk, onions, and seasonings made into a ball and then boiled in water with a glass of red wine added).
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MUST DO/ VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN YEREVAN/ARMENIA
- Armenian Genocide Museum (a very depressing yet touching place to visit because of the photos and videos. However, it overlooks the city, and the view is another reason to visit).
- Tatev Aerial Tramway (also called Wings of Tatev, made the Guinness World Records; the Longest, Non-stop, Double-track Cable Car World Record. To access it takes approximately five hours, one-way, by bus or organised tours, from the city. I highly recommend not leaving Armenia without experiencing it).
- Mount Ararat (the land and mountain of the final resting place of Noah’s Ark remains a primary symbol of Armenia but has been disputed with Turkey since the Armenian genocide at the hands of the Turks …which Turkey denied. Consequently, it is deemed a holy mountain, and to this day, there are conflicts between the Turks and Kurds).
- The Arkor Khor Virap Monastery (built in 642, is an Armenian Monastery located in the Ararat Plain near the Turkish border. It is a pilgrimage site because Saint Gregory the Illuminator was initially imprisoned there for 13 years by King Tiridates111 of Armenia. Subsequently, he became the king’s religious mentor and led the way to advocate Christianity in the country).
- Cafesjian Center for the Arts (the place for the best contemporary arts and culture in Armenia. It is also a beautiful 3D park on the outside, with cafes and restaurants. Wear comfy shoes to climb the 300-plus steps).
- Republic Square & the Dancing Fountain (the Republic Square is a tribute to the city and nation. It is very lively both day and night. However, the best time to visit the square is at night to see the dancing fountain’s musical lights show, but a no-show during the winter months).
- Vernissage Market (the biggest open-air market for visitors and locals alike. It is also the cheapest place for souvenirs and just about everything else).
- Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex (a memorial dedicated to victims of the Armenian genocide that took place in 1915. They built it (including a genocide museum) on Tsitsernakaberd Hill in Yerevan. Yearly, on April 24th, thousands of people gather to commemorate the victims of the genocide).
- The Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Church aka the Holy Etchmiadzin Church (was founded by Thaddaeus and Bartholomew, two of Jesus’s apostles. It is the oldest cathedral in the world, and was built in the 4th century. It is also the most-visited pilgrimage site in the world).
- The Cascade Complex (is a massive 302 m high limestone stairway that takes you to the best spot to view the city. The interior has five levels of elevators and escalators for those unable or unwilling to climb the 572 steps. Each can take you to one of the five platforms or straight to the top. The interior houses the Cafesjian Center for the Arts with exhibition halls).
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The Garni Gorge and Symphony of Stones/Basalt Pillars (this is the most unusual and truly unique stone formation I have ever seen. It is a monument protected by law and looks like a church organ. The Basalt pillars, or organ-like pillars were formed 40 million years ago when lava flowed down the Garni Gorge. Consequently, the lava cooled quickly, leaving columns shaped like pentagons and hexagons held in place by the surrounding rocks. On the other hand, the Garni Gorge was carved out by the water flow from the Goght River. It is a definite must-see and should not be missed when visiting Armenia).
For all these tours, I highly recommend Maxim Tours – on Main Street, Yerevan, for their fair prices, skilled drivers, and excellent service.
SUMMARY
Armenia is a gorgeous country with hospitable people. There are numerous interesting sites and scenery to enjoy, especially outside the city, and they are breathtaking. Therefore, you will never be starved of fascinating and educational things to see or do there. Because, as listed above, Armenia can boast of having rare treasures found nowhere else on earth. Consequently, Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity, is unique and one I was truly blessed to have visited.
Furthermore, the last night before leaving Armenia, I walked around the city and cried having to leave. Because I truly felt at home. Moreover, the budget traveller and the adventurous would be happy in Armenia because, as previously mentioned, it is inexpensive and scenic. In conclusion, I highly recommend Armenia to all travellers, especially for its cuisine, landscapes, culture, history, and hospitality. Visit and Enjoy.
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