🇦🇲 Unique souvenirs from Armenia: what to bring home

In our previous article about Armenia, we talked about Yerevan and its attractions. Some have already personally visited and enjoyed the delights of the country, while others are just planning their trip. We are sure that in both cases, the question has arisen or is already arising: what can I leave as a memory of Armenia? Yes, memories and photos will warm your heart for a very long time. However, having tasted all the delights of the traditions and culture of this country, you will not be able to leave empty-handed.

Surely, each of you has heard the phrase “the East is a delicate matter.” This phrase can describe the shopping process in Armenia. Shopping and shopping here is an integral part of getting to know the culture, and first of all, the people of the country. Where else, if not at the market, can you communicate with a cheerful Armenian who will bargain with you and at the same time tell you everything about his beautiful Armenia?  

Bargaining is appropriate here – it is a kind of tradition that should bring only pleasure and, as a result, of course, a pleasant price for you and the seller! The secret is simple: bargain, bargain and bargain again! However, do not forget that such a life hack is more applicable to markets and bazaars. This number will not work in stores of branded items or expensive jewelry.

So what is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Armenia? This is tart cognac, handmade jewelry, apricots and grapes. Perhaps this is a standard set of purchases for an ordinary tourist who comes to this country. Local colorful markets, bazaars, streets quickly and easily solve the problem of shopping and buying souvenirs. Such places are definitely worth visiting. However, we decided to make an atypical list of options for what can be brought from Armenia. 

Stylish modern clothes with national Armenian motifs

The Taraz&Art brand (72 Teryan St.) is a revival of Armenian national traditions in fashion. The creator of the brand is artist and designer Lilit Melikyan. She is improving Taraz, the Armenian national costume. By the way, it was the Teryan cultural center, headed by Melikyan, that made a national outfit for Kim Kardashian during her visit to Armenia.

Armenian cognac 

Armenian cognac is well known among fans of elite alcoholic drinks around the world. It is the brainchild of endemic grape varieties that grow in the sunny Ararat Valley: Voskehat, Garandmak, Chilar, Mskhali, Kangun and Banants. The main Armenian cognac is “Ararat”. You can go on a tour to the plant in Yerevan. It is easy to buy a drink in almost every store that sells alcohol. For example, in the company store of the Ararat Museum.

Cosmetics

Nairian (34 Tumanyanna St.) is the Armenian answer to European eco-cosmetic brands with a history. The founders of the brand lived and worked in Silicon Valley. Then we came to Armenia for vacation and got excited about the idea of ​​doing something useful and beautiful in our historical homeland. The brand focuses on medicinal herbs and flowers of Armenia, as well as on its own production of essential and vegetable oils used for the production of cosmetics. The brand is positioned on an honest approach, convenient packaging and beautiful design. Nairian can be purchased both in Yerevan and at airport duty-free.

Ancient Armenian jewelry in a new way  

PreGomesh (Abovyan str., 8) – Armenian jewelry that is folklore and at the same time a little rocker. The brand creates items made of silver with semi-precious stones. The authors reinterpret the forms and symbols of traditional Armenian jewelry, making folk motifs sound modern. 

Designer souvenirs 

The doors of the Dalan art gallery (Abovyan St., 12) open onto the central street. The place is located in the very center of Yerevan literally a few meters from the Grand Hotel. This is not only an art gallery, but also a store of Armenian handicrafts, where you will find designer souvenirs: sculptures, jewelry, ceramic plates. There is also a restaurant serving ethnic cuisine. If you want to bring home souvenirs that are not made in China, then you need to visit this place!

Obsidian jewelry

In Yerevan you can find boutiques of elite Armenian jewelry brands such as Artyom's, De Laur or Anna Avakian Jewellry. However, special attention should be paid to jewelry made from natural stones. Obsidian is the most famous and revered stone in Armenia. Products made from obsidian are quite rare, and almost each of them is an exclusive idea of ​​the master.

A couple more worthy places are Spitak Ceramics and Vernissage, where you can also find cute souvenirs and national costumes for a good price.

Well, all that’s left to do is choose a delicious cognac and a beautiful Armenian outfit. We wish you pleasant shopping!