Aparan: Armenia's Hidden Gem in the Highlands

• Helloբարև
  [barev]
• Goodbyeբայց
  [bayts]
• Yesայո
  [ayo]
• Noոչ
  [voch]
• Please/You're welcomeխնդրում եմ
  [khndrum em]
• Thank youՇնորհակալ եմ
  [shnorhakal em]
• Excuse me/SorryՆերքևում եմ
  [nerkevum em]
• How are you?Ինչ եք անում?
  [inch ek anum?]
• Fine. And you?Լավ եմ. Անդամ?
  [lav em. andam?]
• Do you speak English?Դու խոսում ես անգլերեն?
  [du khosum es angleren?]
• I don't understandԵս չեմ հասկանում
  [yes chem haskanum]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseԽնդրում եմ մենյունը տեսնել
  [khndrum em menyunə tesnel]
• I don't eat meatԵս մեխ չեմ ուշադել
  [yes mex chem ushadel]
• Cheers!Կէնաձդ!
  [genadz!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseԽնդրում եմ վճարել
  [khndrum em vcharəl]

• Help!Օրվազանք!
  [orvazank!]
• Go away!Հեր!
  [her!]
• Call the Police!Զինվորական կանացի!
  [zinvorakan kanatsi!]
• Call a doctor!Բժիշկ կանացի!
  [bzhishk kanatsi!]
• I'm lostԵս ծեր եմ
  [yes tser em]
• I'm illԵս հիվանդ եմ
  [yes hivand em]

• I'd like to buy...Խնդրում եմ գնել
  [khndrum em gnel]
• I'm just lookingԵս միայն բան տեսնում եմ
  [yes miayn ban tesnum em]
• How much is it?Քանի՞ է
  [qani e]
• That's too expensiveԱդամակ է
  [adamak e]
• Can you lower the price?Ավելացնել կարճատևությունը կարդալու կարիք ունե՞ս
  [avelatsnel karchatəvut’yunə kardalu karik unes]

• What time is it?Ի՞նչ ժամ է
  [inch zam e]
• It's one o'clockՄեկը է
  [mekə e]
• Half past (10)Տասը երկուս
  [tasə yerkus]
• MorningԱռավոտ
  [aravot]
• AfternoonԿեսգիր
  [keskir]
• EveningԵրեկ
  [yerək]
• YesterdayԵրեկո
  [yerəko]
• TodayԱյսօր
  [aysor]
• TomorrowՎաղը
  [vagə]
• 1Մեկ
  [mek]
• 2Երկու
  [yerkus]
• 3Երեք
  [yerek]
• 4Չորս
  [chors]
• 5Հինգ
  [hing]
• 6Վեց
  [vets]
• 7Յոթ
  [yot]
• 8Ութ
  [ut]
• 9Ինը
  [inə]
• 10Տաս
  [tas]

• Where's a/the...?Այստեղը է...
  [aysdəgy e]
• What's the address?Հասցեն ի՞նչ է
  [hascen inch e]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Արթնացնել կարդալիքում
  [artnatsnel kardalik’um]
• When's the next (bus)?Աջակցեք հաջորդին
  [ajats’ek’ hajordin]
• A ticket (to ....)Կարդալու կտրոն
  [kardalu ktoron]

Aparan's history can be traced back to the Bronze Age, with archaeological findings indicating early settlements in the region. Its strategic location along trade routes made it a significant hub in ancient times. The evidence of early habitation includes ancient tombs and artifacts that showcase the area's historical significance.

During the medieval period, Aparan was part of the Armenian Highlands, a region that was frequently contested by various empires. The town's proximity to the Silk Road contributed to its development as a trade center. Medieval manuscripts and records mention Aparan as a notable stop for merchants and travelers.

One of the most pivotal events in Aparan's history is the Battle of Aparan, which took place in May 1918 during the Armenian-Turkish War. This battle was crucial in halting the advance of Turkish forces into the newly established First Republic of Armenia. The victory at Aparan is celebrated as a symbol of Armenian resilience and determination.

With Armenia becoming a Soviet republic in 1920, Aparan underwent significant changes. The town experienced industrialization and infrastructural development, including the construction of schools, hospitals, and factories. The Soviet influence is still evident in some of the architecture and public works from this period.

Aparan is renowned for its rich cultural and religious heritage. The Basilica of Aparan, also known as the Kasagh Basilica, is one of the oldest Christian churches in Armenia, dating back to the 4th or 5th century. The church is a testament to Armenia's long-standing Christian traditions and its architectural prowess.

Today, Aparan is a vibrant town that balances its historical legacy with modernity. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with the town being famous for its high-quality dairy products. Aparan also attracts visitors with its picturesque landscapes, traditional festivals, and hospitality.

Aparan is located in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. The nearest international airport is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, approximately 60 kilometers away. From Yerevan, you can take a taxi, minibus (marshrutka), or a private car to Aparan. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road. Public transport options, such as marshrutkas, are available from the Kilikia Bus Station in Yerevan.

Within Aparan, many attractions are accessible on foot, but taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive for longer distances. Marshrutkas also operate within the town and to nearby villages. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas, including Mount Aragats and other nearby landmarks.

The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). While credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Aparan, it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Aparan, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Yerevan before traveling.

Aparan is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best.

In case of emergency, dial 911 or 112 for immediate assistance. Local police and medical facilities are available in Aparan. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Aparan like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Armenian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to visit the Aparan Basilica, one of the oldest Christian structures in Armenia. For a unique experience, hike up Mount Aragats, the highest peak in Armenia, which offers stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.