Welcome to the fourth episode of our exciting travel vlog series, where we delve into the rich tapestry of Armenian culture, history, and landscapes. This episode, part one of a multi-part series, highlights our experiences in Yerevan and our visit to the ancient Garni Temple. Join us as we explore these iconic destinations through a Malayali lens.
### Yerevan: The Vibrant Capital
Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is not just a city but a pulsating hub of history, culture, and modernity. Our journey begins at Republic Square, the heart of Yerevan. The square is surrounded by monumental buildings made from pink tuff stone that glows warmly under the sun—a sight that is as photogenic as it is awe-inspiring.
We take our viewers on a stroll through the bustling streets lined with cafes and shops showcasing local arts and crafts. A visit to the Vernissage flea market offers us insights into Armenian craftsmanship. From intricately carved woodworks to beautiful jewelry and traditional garments, Vernissage is a treasure trove for souvenirs.
No exploration of Yerevan would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. We treat ourselves to some local dishes such as Lavash (a soft, thin flatbread), Dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and Khorovats (Armenian barbecue). Each dish tells a story of Armenia’s agricultural heritage and culinary traditions.
### Garni Temple: A Pagan Legacy
Approximately 30 kilometers from Yerevan lies Garni Temple—a majestic symbol of pre-Christian Armenia nestled in picturesque landscapes overlooking the Azat River gorge. This Hellenistic temple dedicated to Mihr (the sun god) dates back to the 1st century AD and stands out for its Greco-Roman architecture which is quite unique in this region predominantly influenced by Christian architecture.
Our vlog captures the stunning views from Garni as well as its intricate stone carvings which illustrate geometric patterns and classical Greek influences. We delve into its history discussing how it survived different epochs—from being a pagan temple to being used as a royal summer house during Armenia’s Christianization.
The surroundings of Garni are equally mesmerizing with their rugged cliffs and lush valleys offering perfect trails for nature lovers. Our trip includes a walk down to the Symphony of Stones—an impressive natural wonder resembling organ pipes created by basalt column formations along the river gorge.
### Personal Reflections: Connecting Cultures
Throughout this journey documented in Malayalam—the mother tongue of Kerala—our aim is not only to showcase Armenia’s marvels but also bridge cultures through shared experiences and stories. For many Malayalis unfamiliar with this part of Europe, each episode serves as an eye-opener about places that are steeped in history yet vibrant with contemporary life.
As we wrap up part one of Episode 4 in our vlog series, it feels like we’ve only scratched the surface. The rich tapestry that makes up Armenia—with its enigmatic old temples, vibrant urban culture in Yerevan, stunning nature escapes not far from city life—continues to draw us deeper into its embrace.
Stay tuned for Part 2 where we will discover more hidden gems in Armenia including monasteries nestled in scenic mountainsides and modern artistic expressions found right on Yerevan’s streetscapes.
Don’t forget to subscribe and follow our journey as we keep exploring what makes Armenia a captivating destination that bridges East with West; tradition with modernity all while speaking directly from one ancient culture—Malayali—to another—Armenian.