Kentron: The Beating Heart of Yerevan

• Helloբարև
  [barev]
• Goodbyeբայց
  [bayts]
• Yesայո
  [ayo]
• Noոչ
  [voch]
• Please/You're welcomeխնդրում եմ/պարտված չէ
  [khndrum em/partvats che]
• Thank youՇնորհակալ եմ
  [shnorhakal em]
• Excuse me/SorryՆերում եմ
  [nerum em]
• How are you?Ինչպես ես?
  [inchpes es?]
• Fine. And you?Լավ եմ. Անդ դու?
  [lav em. and du?]
• Do you speak English?Արեք ես անգլերեն?
  [arek es angleren?]
• I don't understandԵս չեմ հասկանում
  [es chem haskanum]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseԽնդրում եմ նախնականը տեսնել
  [khndrum em nakhnany tesnel]
• I don't eat meatԵս մի կենդանի չեմ ուշադրեմ
  [es mi kendani chem ushadrem]
• Cheers!Կէնցաղերու!
  [kentsagheru]
• I would like to pay, pleaseԽնդրում եմ վճարել
  [khndrum em vcharel]

• Help!Օգնեք!
  [ogneg]
• Go away!Քանի է դա?
  [qani e da?]
• Call the Police!Զասիկներին զանգ անիրաւ
  [zasiknerin zang anirav]
• Call a doctor!Բժիշկին զանգ անիրաւ
  [bzhishkin zang anirav]
• I'm lostԿերակրվել եմ
  [kerakrvel em]
• I'm illԵս հիվանդ եմ
  [es hivand em]

• I'd like to buy...Խնդրում եմ գնել
  [khndrum em gnel]
• I'm just lookingԵս միայն նախորդում եմ
  [es miayn nakhordum em]
• How much is it?Քանի է դա?
  [qani e da?]
• That's too expensiveԱյդ շատ է թափ
  [ayd shat e tap]
• Can you lower the price?Արդեն կարող եք թափել գինը?
  [arden karogh ek tapel gine?]

• What time is it?Որ ժամ է այժմ?
  [vor zam e ayzm?]
• It's one o'clockԵրկուշաբթի է
  [erkushabti e]
• Half past (10)Քսանի է (10)
  [qsani e (10)]
• MorningԱռավոտ
  [aravot]
• AfternoonԵրեկո
  [yereko]
• EveningԵրեկո
  [yereko]
• YesterdayԵրեկ
  [yerek]
• TodayԱյսօր
  [aysor]
• TomorrowՎաղը
  [vage]
• 11
  [1]
• 22
  [2]
• 33
  [3]
• 44
  [4]
• 55
  [5]
• 66
  [6]
• 77
  [7]
• 88
  [8]
• 99
  [9]
• 1010
  [10]

• Where's a/the...?Բայց որտեղ է...?
  [bayts vortegh e...?]
• What's the address?Հասցեն ինչ է?
  [hastcen inch e?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Դուք կարող եք ցուցադրել ինձ (քարտեզում)?
  [duk karogh ek tsutsadrel indz (kartezum)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Երբ է հաջորդը (ավտոբուսը)?
  [erb e hajordy (avtobusy)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Բիլետ (համալիր ...)
  [bilet (hamalir ...)]

Kentron, the central district of Yerevan, established in the 8th century BC, has roots that trace back to the ancient Urartian Kingdom. This area, originally known as Erebuni, served as a strategic fortress and administrative center. The archaeological site of Erebuni Fortress, built in 782 BC, showcases the historical significance of Kentron as a hub of power and culture in ancient Armenia.

The 19th century marked a period of cultural renaissance in Kentron, particularly during the Russian Empire's rule. The establishment of educational institutions, theaters, and cultural societies fostered a flourishing of Armenian literature and arts. The renowned Armenian poet Hovhannes Shiraz and many other significant cultural figures emerged from this vibrant environment, leaving an indelible mark on the Armenian cultural landscape.

The early 20th century was a tumultuous time for Kentron and the broader region, particularly due to the Armenian Genocide (1915-1923). Many survivors sought refuge in Yerevan, leading to significant demographic changes in Kentron. The trauma of these events shaped the identity of the neighborhood and influenced its cultural and historical narrative, as memorials and institutions dedicated to the memory of the victims were established.

Under Soviet rule, Kentron underwent extensive modernization and urban planning. The construction of wide avenues, Soviet-era architecture, and public squares, such as Republic Square, transformed the district into a modern urban center. This period emphasized industrial growth and urbanization, significantly impacting the lifestyle and cultural fabric of the local population.

Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Kentron faced economic challenges and a shift towards a market economy. However, the district has experienced a revival in recent years, with an influx of cafes, galleries, and cultural events that reflect a renewed interest in Armenian heritage and contemporary art. Kentron has become a vibrant center for both locals and tourists, showcasing the resilience and creativity of Yerevan's residents.

Kentron is centrally located in Yerevan and easily accessible from other neighbourhoods. The primary mode of transportation is by taxi, which is affordable and convenient. Public transport options include buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) that connect Kentron with surrounding areas. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to Kentron, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Kentron is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. Public buses and minibuses operate throughout the area, providing easy access to different parts of the neighbourhood. Taxis are also readily available for quick trips. Bicycles can be rented from various local shops, and some areas have bike-sharing programs for a more eco-friendly option.

Kentron is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is wise to take precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas, especially around the outskirts of the neighbourhood. While crime rates are low, petty theft can occur in crowded places, so keep your belongings secure. Areas near the bus station can be less safe at night; exercise caution when traversing these parts.

In case of emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The main hospitals are located within Kentron, including Erebuni Medical Center and Arabkir Medical Center. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available, and many staff members speak basic English.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or cultural sites—avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to the elderly and pregnant women. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a firm handshake; a nod is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings; don’t refuse hospitality as it may offend.

To experience Kentron like a local, explore the vibrant markets and try street food, particularly in Republic Square. Engage with locals in cafes and ask about their favorite spots. Attend local events or festivals for a taste of Armenian culture. Make sure to visit the Cascade Complex for stunning views of the city and Mount Ararat. Lastly, take a leisurely stroll along the Hrazdan River to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). While credit cards are accepted in many places, it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are widely available in Kentron, but ensure you have enough cash for smaller transactions, particularly at local eateries and vendors.

Armenians are known for their hospitality, so don’t hesitate to engage with locals. When invited into a home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or flowers. Additionally, try to learn a few basic Armenian phrases, as this is often appreciated and will enhance your interactions.