Armenia is so distinctive that diversity here is not only in nature, cuisine and attractions – the choice of souvenirs for yourself and loved ones will also be difficult, because you will want to bring home the whole Armenia.
We decided to make a brief guide on the Armenian souvenirs, to make it easier not to get lost in the “Vernissages” and markets.
So, what to bring from Armenia?
Cognac. About Armenian winemaking there are known many songs and legends. Armenian cognac is also possible to buy at home, but definitely not by Armenian prices. There are kinds of cognac, which are sold only in local factories. We recommend products of Yerevan Brandy Company (Ararat), Proshyan plant, as well as cognac of brand “Noah.” In local supermarkets you can buy even 20 year old brandy at very reasonable prices.
Cuisine. Armenian cuisine is also known worldwide as the oldest and one of the most diverse. So why not to treat yourself and loved ones with fragrant sets of spices, local cheeses and teas from mountain herbs. You can also bring local sweets that are perfectly stored en route. Try Sudjukh or Basturma – traditional sausages. Popular among tourists all sorts of dried fruits and even fresh fruit in season.
National crafts. In Armenia, all kinds of crafts thrive today: wood carving, jewelry making, carpet weaving. On local markets, you will meet with the diverse range of handicrafts. Especially interesting are the wooden wares: backgammon, chess and board game. Also, one can often find carved wooden clock, which perfectly fit into the ethnic interior.
Often on “Vernissage markets” you can find very beautiful works of art: paintings and woven tapestries. In monasteries there are sold prayers and religious paintings, carved into obsidian, Khachkars – small cross-stones, made of tufa, or precious wood.
Fans of ethnic will appreciate Armenian carpets: the stunning quality with unique Armenian patterns. Many regions of Armenia are famous for their craftsmen in carpet weaving. On the markets you can buy Idjevan, Dilijan and Karabakh carpets, including antique ones.
Special attention should be paid to traditional Armenian ceramics. In addition to the figures and the interior items you can find a fully functional and beautiful household utensils: plates, cups, vases and more. There are some very simple and uncomplicated products, but can also be found true works of art.
Armenian mountains are rich in precious and semiprecious stones, so here is thriving jewelry business. At very affordable prices, you can purchase the articles of gold and silver jewelery and articles made of jasper, onyx, amethyst and other stones.
Vernissage. Generally, “Vernissage” in Armenia – a place where you can buy everything – from porcelain someone’s grandmother to fresh made Idjevan carpet. From handicrafts made of wood and metal to fine jewelry. Spare parts for bicycles, scenic landscapes of Armenia in painting, tapestry, woodcarving … Hopefully, you now have no doubt about where exactly to go for souvenirs from Armenia. Such “Vernissages” can be found in almost all tourist cities, you just need to ask locals.
Photos from sources: sacvoyage.am, essenziale-hd.com, mygeotrip.com, rentyerevan.com, araratour.com, look.com.ua