Shengavit Ancient Settlement, Kotayk Travel Guide

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Uncover Armenia's ancient past at Shengavit, an Early Bronze Age settlement with a rich history and archaeological significance.

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Shengavit Ancient Settlement

Explore the Shengavit Ancient Settlement in Yerevan, a captivating archaeological site dating back to the early Bronze Age. Discover the remnants of one of the region's oldest urban centers, offering insights into the lives and society of its ancient inhabitants from 3000 BC to 2200 BC.

A brief summary to Shengavit Ancient Settlement

5F4G+HQC, Bagratuniats St, Yerevan, Shengavit, AM
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Tuesday 10:30 am-4:40 pm
Wednesday 10:30 am-4:40 pm
Thursday 10:30 am-4:40 pm
Friday 10:30 am-4:40 pm
Saturday 10:30 am-4:40 pm
Sunday 10:30 am-4:40 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Shengavit Ancient Settlement.

Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven.
Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather.
Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the site's history.
Check the museum's opening hours before your visit (Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM to 4:40 PM).

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Explore Shengavit Ancient Settlement on the Map

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Republic Square, take bus number 40 towards Shengavit. Stay on the bus for approximately 15 minutes and get off at the 'Bagratuniats' stop. Walk along Bagratuniats St. for about 5 minutes to reach the settlement. A single bus fare costs around 100 AMD.
Public Transport

Take the Yerevan Metro from the nearest station (e.g., Republic Square) towards 'Barekamutyun' and transfer at the 'Shengavit' station. Head south along Bagratuniats St. for about 10 minutes to reach the settlement. A single metro ticket costs 100 AMD.
Taxi

Use a local taxi or ride-sharing app like Yandex to get to Shengavit Ancient Settlement. Enter the address '5F4G+HQC, Bagratuniats St, Yerevan' as your destination. The ride from the city center will take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 1,000-1,500 AMD.
Walking

If you are near the center of Yerevan, you can walk to Shengavit Ancient Settlement. Head south from Republic Square towards Aram St., continue straight until you reach the intersection with Bagratuniats St. Turn left onto Bagratuniats St. and walk for about 15-20 minutes. The site will be on your right, just past the residential area.

Discover more about Shengavit Ancient Settlement

Shengavit Ancient Settlement, located in present-day Yerevan, Armenia, offers a glimpse into the region's rich history, dating back to the Early Bronze Age. This archaeological site, situated on a hill southeast of Yerevan Lake, was inhabited from approximately 3000 BC to 2200 BC, representing a significant period in the Kura-Araxes (Shengavitian) era. The settlement spans six hectares and is considered a societal center due to its size, surplus grain production, metallurgy evidence, and a monumental 4-meter wide stone wall.Excavations at Shengavit began in 1936 and have continued intermittently, revealing cyclopean walls with towers, circular and square multi-dwelling buildings made of stone and mud-brick. Inside, ritual hearths and household pits were discovered, along with large silos for wheat and barley storage. An underground passage once led to the river. Artifacts found include stone tools, pottery, crucibles, and even horse bones. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the daily lives, customs, and traditions of the early settlers.Today, Shengavit is a branch of the Erebuni Historical & Archaeological Culture-Preserve, featuring a museum with artifacts from the site. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the sophisticated urban planning and community organization of this ancient settlement. The site is not only an archaeological treasure but also a peaceful retreat from city life.