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The Iron Fountain: A Symbol of Gyumri's Resilience

Discover the Iron Fountain in Gyumri: a symbol of resilience, Soviet-era architecture, and the enduring spirit of Armenia after the devastating 1988 earthquake.

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The Iron Fountain in Gyumri, Armenia, is a striking Soviet-era landmark and a testament to the city's enduring spirit. Designed by architect Artur Tarkhanyan and completed in 1982, it stands as a reminder of Gyumri's strength, having survived the devastating 1988 earthquake.

A brief summary to The Iron Fountain

  • RR8X+7W4, Gyumri, AM
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Take some time to appreciate the fountain's intricate design, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding architecture, creating a picturesque scene perfect for photographs.
  • Explore the area around the fountain, where you'll find historical buildings that narrate the city's unique tale.
  • Visit the fountain during sunset for a more dramatic and evocative experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Iron Fountain is located on the outskirts of Gyumri. From Vardanants Square, the central square in Gyumri, head north on Abovyan Street, then turn left onto Manushyan Street. Continue along Manushyan Street; the fountain will be visible on your left. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers and should take around 40-50 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Avtokayaran (main bus station) at the end of Shahumyan Street, take a local bus or marshrutka (minibus) that heads towards the outskirts of the city. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Iron Fountain on Manushyan Street. From there, it's a short walk to the fountain. Bus fare is approximately 100 AMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gyumri. Use a ride-hailing app or flag down a taxi on the street. Show the driver the address or mention the Iron Fountain. A taxi ride from the city center to the Iron Fountain typically costs around 500-1000 AMD.

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Discover more about The Iron Fountain

The Iron Fountain, also known as the "Friendship Fountain," is located on the outskirts of Gyumri and is a unique example of Soviet modernism. Designed by renowned Armenian architect Artur Tarkhanyan, who also designed Yerevan's Zvartnots International Airport and the Tsitsernakaberd memorial complex, the fountain was completed in 1982. Its design features interconnected metal plates resembling butterflies taking flight, meant to symbolize unity and hope. Locals sometimes jokingly refer to it as the "UFO fountain" due to its distinctive shape. Originally, the fountain served as the centerpiece of the Polytechnic University campus, surrounded by flowerbeds and trees, making it a popular gathering place. However, the 1988 Spitak earthquake, which destroyed much of Gyumri, left the fountain inoperable. Remarkably, the Iron Fountain was one of the few structures that withstood the disaster, becoming a symbol of the city's resilience. Despite its disuse and the neglect of the surrounding area, the Iron Fountain continues to attract visitors with its architectural significance and historical importance. It serves as a poignant reminder of Gyumri's past and the enduring spirit of the Armenian people. Restoration efforts have been proposed to revive this iconic landmark, hoping to restore it to its former glory.

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