Erebuni fortress sits above the plains of Yerevan at a height of 1017m. It was built in 782 B.C. and not much is left today. It is in ruins with some foundation walls still standing. But one comes here for two reasons : the frescoed walls which are truly amazing and the fabulous view of the city of Yerevan and Mont Ararat! Some of the ancient wall paintings are priceless. It is an explosion of colors and they are painstakingly done. There are also numerous cuneiform inscriptions are carved on the basalt walls. And at the end of your visit, a view of Mount Ararat from the fortress's ramparts is just unforgettable...
The galleries in NYC have more uratu pieces in it as are other international museums but it is at least interesting if you haven't travelled to Ankara
For such an important site to Yerevan, one that makes it older than Rome we are told the visitor would expect a higher profile. When I visited on a Saturday morning I was the only person in the museum and when I went up to the monument I was on my own for 45 minutes until another visitor appeared. The lack of continuing investment is obvious. Those are the negatives as the artifacts on display are intriguing and well worth seeing albeit more could be available to see I'm sure. The walls of the monument give an impression of what it may have been and makes you wonder what is still to be found under your feet. The staff were helpful in the museum so don't be afraid to ask them questions.I gave it average because it could be so much more and I wanted more information on the inhabitants etc. If it was in Europe it would be centre stage for the tourist.
Some interesting facts to learn in the small museum in this fortress from 782 BC. Partially reconstructed by what appear to be amateurs as it is a poor reconstruction. Good view of the city and perhaps Ararat if you are more lucky than most! Worth seeing if you have time.
This gave us and opportunity to discuss what role the government has in archeology. The citadel is a re-built structure. The view ovrlooking the city is impressive.
You can see the replica of its original structure at the Museum. Huge, Majestic and still Elegant in spite of the destruction.Wear flat shoes. Make sure you bring your camera; at the admission, you will be informed of the very little extra charge if pictures will be taken. Ararat mountain stands right behind it. Beautiful!
October 2012.Totally average, nothing special other than the views across Erevan city and they are nothing 'exciting' from this vantage point.If you miss going here, don't worry, you have not missed much.
Very impressive museum, with exhibit labeling and narratives in English. The walk from the museum to the hilltop ruin can be taxing on a hot day. Take a bottle of water as there is no fountain (as of our visit) on the summit. The view of surrounding countryside is spectacular, and indicates why this was chosen as a strategic location for fortified residence. I did not see any provision for handicapped access to the summit, which is a drawback. I have rheumatoid arthritis and some mobility issues, but was able to make the climb....slowly. It was worth the effort and discomfort.
erebuni is the old name for yerevan. this fortress is the remains of the early citadel of the city.the grounds were quite well kept and the museum held many interesting archaeological artifacts from armenia's history. this site must be seen to understand the history of the city... it also offers great views of the town.
After seeing the museum below, you can climb to the ruins that overlook the valley. Many of the walls of the fortress are still in place; you just have to image how the rest of the structure looked. Great view of the town below.