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Zanan Cultural House: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Armenian Life

Step back in time at Zanan Cultural House in Gyumri: explore traditional Armenian costumes, fabric art, and the city's rich cultural heritage.

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The Zanan Cultural House in Gyumri offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience 19th-century Armenian culture. Visitors can explore traditional costumes, learn about fabric painting, and even participate in photoshoots, all within a historic setting. It's a vibrant hub for artistic expression and community engagement.

A brief summary to Zanan Cultural House

  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check Zanan's schedule in advance for special events, workshops, and performances to enhance your visit.
  • Consider participating in a traditional Armenian costume photoshoot for a unique and memorable experience.
  • Explore the surrounding Kumayri Historic District to further immerse yourself in Gyumri's architectural and cultural heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Zanan Cultural House is located at Varpetac 101 in Gyumri. From Shiraz Square, walk east along Vardanants Street, then turn left onto Varpetats Street. The Cultural House will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Gyumri Railway Station, take a marshrutka (minibus) heading towards the city center. Ask the driver to let you off near Varpetats Street. From there, walk a few minutes to Varpetac 101. The marshrutka fare is 100 AMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gyumri. A short taxi ride from the city center or Gyumri Railway Station to Zanan Cultural House will cost approximately 500 AMD. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Zanan Cultural House

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Discover more about Zanan Cultural House

Zanan Cultural House, nestled in the heart of Gyumri, is more than just a cultural center; it's a portal to 19th-century Armenia. Located on Varpetats Street, within the Central Kumayri-Reserve Museum territory, Zanan occupies the basement of a building dating back to 1868, constructed by the affluent merchant Keshishyan from Alexandropol. The location itself is significant, as Varpetats Street, meaning 'Master Street,' was once the center of the city's thriving craft life. Zanan was founded to revive traditional sewing and tailoring methods in Gyumri. Hasmik Khachatryan and her team offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the past by trying on cultural costumes from centuries ago, transforming into warriors, Armenian brides, or workers. The center boasts a collection of over 15 costumes from various periods, meticulously crafted using ethnographic books and images. Visitors can also delve into the art of fabric painting, learning about 'bird letters,' a unique calligraphic tradition that intertwines images of birds with Armenian script. Under Hasmik's guidance, guests can paint their own scarves with bird letters, creating a special and personal souvenir. Zanan provides a multifaceted experience, blending historical insight with creative expression. It's a place where visitors can connect with Armenian heritage in a tangible and engaging way. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about Armenian culture, Zanan Cultural House offers a memorable and enriching experience.

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