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Cascade Complex: Yerevan's Stairway to Art

Climb Yerevan's iconic Cascade, explore open-air art, and enjoy panoramic city views from this architectural masterpiece.

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The Cascade Complex in Yerevan is a monumental stairway adorned with sculptures, fountains, and contemporary art, connecting the city center to Victory Park. It offers panoramic views and houses the Cafesjian Museum of Art.

A brief summary to Cascade Complex

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon or early evening for stunning sunset views over Yerevan.
  • Take advantage of the free escalators inside the complex if you prefer not to climb the stairs.
  • Explore the Cafesjian Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of modern art.
  • Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the cafes near the Cascade while soaking in the artistic ambiance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Yerevan Opera House, walk north on Freedom Square, then turn right onto Tamanyan Street. Continue for about 500 meters; the Cascade Complex will be on your right. This walk is approximately 10 minutes and is free.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Yerevan Metro to Marshal Baghramyan station. From there, walk north for about 5 minutes to reach the Cascade Complex. The metro fare is 100 AMD. Alternatively, several buses stop near the Matenadaran Museum, a short walk from the Cascade. A single bus ride also costs 100 AMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Yerevan. Use a ride-hailing app like GG Taxi or Yandex Taxi to book a ride to the Cascade Complex. A short taxi ride from Republic Square to the Cascade costs approximately 600-700 AMD. Ensure the driver uses a meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Cascade Complex

The Cascade Complex is a defining landmark of Yerevan, Armenia, blending architectural grandeur with artistic expression. Conceived in the 1920s by architect Alexander Tamanyan, the concept was to link the northern and central parts of Yerevan with a vast green space. The project was revived in the late 1970s by Jim Torosyan, but construction faced interruptions due to the 1988 earthquake and the Soviet Union's collapse. The complex is a 302-meter long and 50-meter wide structure that covers 13 hectares, featuring five platforms connected by 572 steps. For those who prefer not to climb, escalators run inside the structure. The outdoor area showcases sculptures by renowned artists like Fernando Botero and Lynn Chadwick. The Cafesjian Museum of Art, established in 2009, is housed within the Cascade, displaying contemporary art. At the base stands a statue of Alexander Tamanyan, commemorating his vision for Yerevan. The complex connects the city center with Victory Park, offering views of the Ararat Valley. The uppermost terrace features the Monumental Terrace, marked by an obelisk erected in 1971 to honor the 50th anniversary of Soviet rule in Armenia. The Cascade is not just a stairway but a cultural hub, hosting events and exhibitions.

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