Republic Square, Yerevan

Republic Square, which sits on top of 3000 year old ruins, can be found in the centre of Armenia’s capital and is a focal point for both Armenian’s and tourists.  If you want to admire some of Armenia’s finest architecture, both in the square itself but also the buildings (designed by Tamayan) that surround it, then pay Republic Square a visit during the day; however, if you want to experience some of Armenia’s best nightlife, then you should also pay the square a visit in the evening – this is when it truly comes to life!  Nicknamed ‘The Guest House of Yerevan’ by locals, everyone is welcome!

Republic Square, Yerevan

The History of Republic Square

Reconstruction and renovation of infrastructure was commonplace in Armenia during the Soviet Union era.  It was during this era that plans to rebuild the square in Yerevan were put forward. Designed by the architect Alexander Tamanyan, construction began in 1926 and the initial stage was completed by 1929.  However, the initial stage of construction was considered extreme, as it required every structure in the area to be destroyed and replaced by fresh buildings (which combined Armenia’s national style with the best of architecture from around the world). 

The square was originally named Lenin Square; it was named after the statue of the Russian Marxist, revolutionary and politician that was placed on to a polished granite plinth on the southern part of the oval square in 1940, on the 20^th anniversary of Soviet Armenia. 

Further development of the square commenced in 1952 and was completed in 1958 and it is this development that provides the square with its unified architectural style over the 14,000 square metres that it occupies.

What You Will Experience at Republic Square

The first thing you will notice ismissing from the original square is the statue of Lenin, which was dismantled and removed from the square in 1990 – just prior to the dissolution of The Soviet Union and Armenia’s independence.  A large television screen now sits in the place that the statue used to occupy.  Yet, the statue was considered to be a particularly fine example of the prominent Soviet artist Sergei Merkurov’s work and, if you wish to view it, it lies in the courtyard of The National History Museum where you can request to view it.

Apart from this, as you approach the oval-shaped square, you will observe a stone pattern in the centre that is meant to represent a traditional Armenian rug when viewed from above.  Located in front of The National Gallery, on the north eastern side of the square, you will notice the seven famous fountains – known as ‘The Singing Fountains’ designed by the engineer and scientist Abram Abramyan.  Look all the way round the square and you will see the buildings that completed Tamanyan’s vision: The National Gallery and the History Museum building; The Ministry of Territorial Administration; The Government House; The Central Post Office of the Republic of Armenia; The Marriott Armenia hotel; The Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

During the day, on weekends, you will witness the tradition of wedding parties circling the square three times – to further bond their hearts.  Whereas, when you visit by night, you will be greeted by a completely transformed atmosphere; this is when the square truly comes to life.  The square bustles in the evenings, especially between the seasons of spring and late autumn; this is mainly due to the show comprising of music and light that is performed by The Singing Fountains between 9pm and 11pm – with the fountains dancing to the rhythm of the music, which ranges from classical Armenian scores through jazz, pop and rock.  This is something that you will not want to miss!

Trip Advisor Ratings and Testimonials

As previously mentioned, Matenadaran is ranked 6^th out of 31 Armenian tourist attractions on Trip Adviser, with 112 out of 205 independent reviewers giving it 5 out of 5 and 73 more giving it 4 stars out of 5.  Some of the guests said the following:

                ‘Nice place to orient yourself...’

                ‘A city centre walk.’

                ‘A vast square.’

                ‘Lights, sounds and singing water fountains!’

This landmark is definitely a prominent part of Armenia’s history and, as such, an important place to visit both during the day and at night!