Khachatur Abovyan Square

Description

I’ve got to tell you about this fascinating square in Yerevan that really grabbed my attention during my recent visit to Armenia. Khachatur Abovyan Square might not be the biggest or most famous spot in the city, but it’s got this incredible charm that just pulls you in. Named after one of Armenia’s most influential writers and educators, this square has become sort of an intellectual hub in the heart of Yerevan.

Y’know what I love most about this place? It’s got this perfect blend of old-school Armenian architecture and modern city life. The square’s got these beautiful buildings surrounding it that tell stories from different periods of Armenian history. And right in the middle, there’s this impressive statue of Khachatur Abovyan himself – the guy was basically the founder of modern Armenian literature, so it’s pretty cool to see him immortalized like that.

Key Features

• The iconic statue of Khachatur Abovyan standing proudly in the center
• Historical architecture surrounding the square, showcasing classic Armenian design
• Several benches perfect for people-watching or taking a quick break
• Beautiful seasonal flower arrangements that change throughout the year
• Local cafes and shops dotting the perimeter
• Regular cultural events and gatherings
• Excellent photo opportunities with Mount Ararat as backdrop on clear days
• Meeting point for various walking tours of Yerevan

Best Time to Visit

From my experience, spring and fall are absolutely magical times to check out Abovyan Square. The weather’s just perfect – not too hot, not too cold. I’d especially recommend visiting during April to May when the square comes alive with spring blooms, or September to October when the surrounding trees turn gorgeous shades of gold and orange.

But here’s a little insider tip: try stopping by during the early evening hours, around sunset. That’s when the square takes on this gorgeous golden glow, and you’ll catch locals finishing up their workday, creating this authentic slice-of-life atmosphere that I absolutely love.

How to Get There

Getting to Khachatur Abovyan Square is pretty straightforward – it’s right in the heart of Yerevan. If you’re taking the metro, hop off at Republic Square station and take a short 10-minute walk east. Honestly, I found that walking is the best way to get there, as you’ll get to soak in all the cool little shops and cafes along the way.

If you’re not up for walking, plenty of taxis know the spot – just make sure they use the meter or agree on a price beforehand. And if you’re using public transport, several bus routes stop nearby – just ask any local for directions, they’re usually super helpful!

Tips for Visiting

Lemme share some personal tips that’ll make your visit even better. First off, bring your camera – trust me, you’ll want it! The lighting in the morning is particularly gorgeous for photos with the statue. And speaking of morning visits, that’s actually when you’ll find the square at its most peaceful.

If you’re anything like me and enjoy a good coffee while exploring, there are some fantastic little cafes around the square. I stumbled upon this amazing spot that serves traditional Armenian coffee – totally worth trying! Oh, and don’t forget to carry some cash; while many places accept cards, some smaller vendors around the square might not.

During summer months, it can get pretty toasty out there, so maybe pack a water bottle and wear a hat. And here’s something I learned the hard way: if you’re planning to meet someone at the square, be specific about where exactly – it’s bigger than it looks in photos!

Consider joining one of the free walking tours that start from the square – they’re a fantastic way to learn about the area’s history and get your bearings in Yerevan. Just remember to tip your guide if you enjoy the tour!

Location

Places to Stay Near Khachatur Abovyan Square

Find Tours in Yerevan

Explore More Travel Guides