Armenia is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage, and there’s no shortage of unique souvenirs to bring home. From handmade crafts to locally produced delicacies, the options are endless. If you’re looking for something authentic, the local markets and artisan shops have you covered. Here’s a rundown of the best places to shop and what to buy when you’re in Armenia.
1. Carpets and Rugs
Armenian carpets are well-known for their high quality and intricate designs. These handwoven treasures make a great souvenir and can add a unique touch to any home. The craftsmanship of Armenian rugs is unparalleled, with many incorporating traditional motifs that have been passed down through generations. You’ll find these in many places, but if you really want an excellent piece, Yerevan’s Vernissage market is a great starting point.
Where to buy:
Vernissage Market (Yerevan): This is the largest open-air market in Armenia, and it’s a hub for handmade goods, including rugs and carpets. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for quality items at a fair price.
Megerian Carpet Museum (Yerevan): Not only can you buy beautiful rugs here, but you can also learn about the history of Armenian carpets. It’s a two-for-one experience and well worth the visit.
2. Armenian Ceramics
Armenian ceramics are vibrant, beautifully painted, and often depict scenes of traditional life. From plates to vases, these items are not only decorative but practical as well. Many of the ceramics you’ll find are hand-painted by local artisans, making each piece unique.
Where to buy:
Vernissage Market (Yerevan): Again, Vernissage is a hotspot for all kinds of handmade goods. Many ceramic vendors sell dishes painted with typically Armenian colors and patterns.
Handes Art Center (Yerevan): This shop specializes in ceramics and other local crafts. It’s a great place to pick up something special, and the quality is exceptional.
3. Armenian Cognac (Brandy)
If you enjoy a good drink, you need to try Armenian Cognac. Famous worldwide, it’s considered one of the best cognacs you can find. The locals are super proud of it, and for a good reason—it’s smooth, rich, and makes for a fantastic gift.
Where to buy:
Yerevan Brandy Company (Yerevan): This is the most iconic place to get authentic Armenian cognac. You can tour the distillery and learn about the production process before buying a bottle.
Shops and Supermarkets: If you’re short on time, most supermarkets in Yerevan carry a wide selection of Armenian cognacs at good prices. Just make sure you’re getting an authentic brand.
4. Pomegranate Wine and Fruit Preserves
Pomegranates are a symbol of Armenia, and pomegranate wine is an unusual and tasty souvenir. It’s sweet, tangy, and very different from your usual red or white wine. Also, don’t miss out on the fruit preserves; made with local fruits, they are delicious and make for easy-to-carry gifts.
Where to buy:
Noy Wine Factory (Yerevan): You can purchase quality pomegranate wine here, and they also offer tours of their winery.
Local Markets: Farmers markets and even roadside stalls often sell homemade jam and preserves. Look out for apricot and fig as well—they’re fantastic.
5. Armenian Jewelry
Armenia has a long history of jewelry-making, with much of it being handcrafted by artisans. You’ll find pieces made of silver, gold, and even semi-precious stones. Whether you’re buying something traditional or modern, Armenian jewelry makes an elegant souvenir.
Where to buy:
Ghazanchyan Jewelry (Yerevan): This is a well-known shop for high-quality, unique pieces. They specialize in both modern and traditional designs.
Vernissage Market (Yerevan): Vernissage also has jewelry vendors, and you can often haggle for a good deal.
6. Armenian Woodcraft
Wooden items carved by Armenian artists are another great option. You’ll find everything from religious crosses to chess sets. Many of these pieces are intricately detailed, and they make thoughtful gifts or beautiful decorations for your home.
Where to buy:
Vernissage Market (Yerevan): Like with many items in this list, Vernissage has some of the best woodcraft vendors in the country. It’s the perfect place to find a carved souvenir.
Shuka Market (Gyumri): Gyumri’s Shuka Market is a smaller but equally vibrant marketplace. You can find artisans selling hand-carved wooden items here as well.
7. Armenian Textiles
Textiles are another popular category of Armenian souvenirs. From handwoven scarves to intricate tablecloths, these items are not only functional but also artistically crafted with detailed embroidery and patterns specific to Armenia.
Where to buy:
Vernissage Market (Yerevan): There are plenty of textile vendors, selling tablecloths, scarves, and other fabric goods. Many are made by hand with traditional Armenian designs.
Teryan Cultural Center (Yerevan): This cultural center doubles as a shop, offering beautiful handmade textiles. They emphasize preserving the cultural significance behind each piece.
8. Lavash and Local Spices
Bringing home lavash, Armenia’s beloved flatbread, might not be the easiest souvenir, but you can find dried lavash, which keeps for much longer. Pair it with a selection of local spices or herbs. The Armenian spice blends are flavorful and practical to take home.
Where to buy:
Local Markets: Farmers markets like GUM Market offer a fresh variety of local spices and herbs that are easy to pack. You can also buy dried lavash here.
9. Duduk (Traditional Flute)
If you’re into music, the Armenian duduk is a must-buy. This traditional flute is made from apricot wood and has a deep, unique sound. It’s been used for centuries in Armenian music and is a key part of local culture.
Where to buy:
Saryan Street (Yerevan): This street has a few music shops where you can buy a genuine duduk. You can also chat with the shopkeepers, who often have interesting stories about Armenian music.
Vernissage Market (Yerevan): You can find handcrafted duduks here, often sold directly by the makers. It’s great if you’re looking for something authentic.
A Few Tips Before You Shop
Bargaining:
Bargaining is common in markets, but be respectful when haggling. Vendors are usually open to some negotiation, especially in places like Vernissage.
Quality Check:
If you’re buying something expensive, like a carpet or jewelry, make sure to check the quality. Don’t be afraid to ask about materials, craftsmanship, or any certificates of authenticity.
Conclusion
Armenia is full of surprises when it comes to shopping for souvenirs. From handmade rugs to delicious cognac, there are plenty of unique things to bring back home. As with any foreign country, make time to explore the local markets, talk with the artisans, and choose something that really speaks to you. That way, you’ll have not just a souvenir, but a piece of Armenia’s rich cultural legacy.
Leave a reply