Cascade Complex
Կասկադ
A huge white terraced complex linking the city centre with the northern heights. It houses a contemporary art centre, and from the top you can look out over the whole city and Mount Ararat.
The Cascade was begun in the 1970s as part of architect Tamanian's urban plan. It was meant to connect the city centre with the Victory Park heights to the north. Construction stalled after the Soviet collapse. Most of the work was later completed with funding from Gerard Cafesjian, an Armenian-American philanthropist, who also established the Cafesjian Center for the Arts. Outside, there are 572 steps arranged in several tiered terraces, each with flowerbeds, fountains and modern sculptures. In the garden at the base are contemporary works including Botero's Fat Cat and Fat Woman. Visitors who don't want to climb can take the escalator inside the structure to the top floor. Along the way, the exhibition halls on each level display glass art and contemporary works for free (some special exhibitions charge admission). From the top, you can take in the city of Yerevan, the Opera House and, in the distance, Mount Ararat. It is the best place to photograph the whole city. Further uphill are a Soviet-era monument and the 'Mother Armenia' statue in Victory Park. There are many cafés and restaurants at the foot of the steps, and open-air concerts are often held there on summer evenings. Admission is free. It is about a 20-minute walk from Republic Square.
Opening hours
Outdoor areas open all day; indoor escalators and galleries approx. 08:00-20:00 (confirm on site)
Nearby sights
- Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre
- Matenadaran
- Mother Armenia & Victory Park
- History Museum of Armenia
- Republic Square
- Vernissage Market
- Blue Mosque
- Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral