Cafesjian Center for the Arts
A monumental staircase showcasing modern Armenian art, with stunning city views and free admission.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Cafesjian Center for the Arts
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental staircase showcasing modern Armenian art, with stunning city views and free admission.
"A must-visit for art lovers and anyone seeking breathtaking city vistas."
🚶♀️ Walk Down, Escalate Up
Take escalators up to save energy, then walk down to admire the art and views.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The stairs and sculptures offer endless unique photo opportunities. Capture the city views too!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Yerevan Cascade Stairs
Exterior
An iconic architectural marvel with artistic statues and stunning city views. Perfect for photos!
Sculpture Garden
Exterior
A vibrant outdoor space filled with contemporary sculptures set against a beautiful backdrop.
Indoor Art Galleries
Interior
Explore diverse modern and contemporary Armenian art exhibitions on multiple levels.
Panoramic City Views
Top of the Cascade
Breathtaking vistas of Yerevan, especially magical at sunset and night.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Rewards
Ascend for Views & Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cafesijan center of arts
🚶♀️ Walk Down, Escalate Up
Take escalators up to save energy, then walk down to admire the art and views.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The stairs and sculptures offer endless unique photo opportunities. Capture the city views too!
What to see in 3 days (Erevan)
Things to do
💰 Free Admission!
Enjoy the entire complex, including indoor galleries, at no cost.
☕️ Nearby Cafes
Plenty of restaurants and cafes surround the Cascade for a post-visit treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Down, Escalate Up
Take escalators up to save energy, then walk down to admire the art and views.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The stairs and sculptures offer endless unique photo opportunities. Capture the city views too!
💰 Free Admission!
Enjoy the entire complex, including indoor galleries, at no cost.
☕️ Nearby Cafes
Plenty of restaurants and cafes surround the Cascade for a post-visit treat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, particularly its stunning architecture, impressive collection of modern art, and breathtaking panoramic views of Yerevan. The free admission is a significant plus, making it an accessible and highly recommended attraction for art lovers and casual tourists alike. Some minor drawbacks include potential crowds during peak times and the varying nature of indoor exhibitions.
"The Yerevan Cascade is a fantastic destination that offers an incredible experience for art enthusiasts and those looking for leisure activities. Here are some highlights:
- Free Admission : The complex is open to the public and admission is free of charge, making it an accessible and inclusive destination for everyone.
- Amazing Artworks : The Yerevan Cascade features an impressive collection of artworks, including sculptures, installations, and exhibits that showcase the creativity and talent of local and international artists.
- Exclusive Shopping : On the ground floor, visitors can find a store offering exclusive items, such as unique souvenirs, art books, and gifts, at very affordable prices.
- Leisure and Art : The complex is an ideal destination for leisure and art enthusiasts, providing a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate art, architecture, and culture in a beautiful setting.
- Recommendation : I highly recommend the Yerevan Cascade to anyone interested in art, culture, and leisure activities. It's a great place to spend an afternoon or evening, and the complex's accessibility and affordability make it an excellent choice for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Overall, the Yerevan Cascade is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, culture, and leisure activities. Its unique blend of art, architecture, and natural beauty makes it an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on visitors."
Monica Balakrishnan
"A unique contemporary art complex in Yerevan. From the top, there is a breathtaking view of the entire city—both during the day, when all the pink tuff buildings are visible, and at night, when the city's lights shine. With some luck, there is also a view of Mount Ararat."
Diruhi Topakbashian
"Stunningly beautiful pyramid with a multi-block greenery surrounded by artistic statues. The pyramid itself has escalators on the inside, with art exhibitions on each level. The exterior of the building was just as spectacular, as the structure itself has the mix of artistic accents, statues, and a great city vista.
My advice is to take the escalators up, and walk down. Or if you’d like a hot challenge, walk up and take the escalator down"
Matt B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cafesjian Center for the Arts, also known as the Yerevan Cascade, is centrally located in Yerevan. You can easily reach it by taxi or public transport. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other city center attractions.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the Cascade, street parking is often available in the surrounding areas. It's generally easier to access via taxi or by walking if you're already in the city center.
Yes, it's a relatively short and pleasant walk from Republic Square to the Yerevan Cascade, allowing you to see more of the city along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, including the outdoor sculpture garden and indoor galleries, is completely free.
The outdoor areas and sculpture garden are generally accessible for longer hours, often from early morning until late evening. Indoor gallery hours may vary, so it's best to check their official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors enjoy visiting during the day for clear city views and to see the sculptures in natural light. However, visiting in the evening offers a magical experience with the city lights.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Cascade is a photographer's dream! Focus on the unique architectural lines, the diverse sculptures, and of course, the panoramic views of Yerevan, especially from the top. The exterior stairs and the garden offer great compositions.
Photography rules inside the galleries can vary. While many contemporary art spaces allow non-flash photography, it's always best to check for signage or ask staff before taking pictures inside the exhibition halls.
Absolutely! The city lights create a stunning backdrop, and the illuminated Cascade itself is a beautiful sight. It offers a completely different, yet equally captivating, photographic perspective.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Cascade itself is primarily an art space, there are numerous restaurants and cafes located at the base and surrounding areas, offering a variety of cuisines.
You'll find a range of dining options, from traditional Armenian cuisine to international dishes. Many establishments offer outdoor seating with views of the Cascade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the indoor galleries might be more suited for older children or those with a keen interest in art, the escalator ride itself can be an adventure for younger ones. The free admission makes it an accessible outing for families on a budget. Consider bringing snacks and water, as dining options are primarily outside the immediate art complex.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk from other central Yerevan attractions to save on transportation. Pack your own water and snacks, as the surrounding cafes and restaurants can add up. The Cascade provides a rich cultural experience that is both memorable and incredibly affordable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art and Architecture
Visitors often marvel at the blend of art and landscape. The outdoor sculpture garden is a highlight, featuring works by renowned artists like Fernando Botero and Barry Flanagan, set amidst lush greenery. This creates a dynamic interplay between the art pieces and their surroundings. The interior, accessible via escalators, houses more intimate gallery spaces, offering a different perspective on the art. The architectural ingenuity ensures that the journey through the Cascade is as engaging as the art itself.
Many travelers recommend a specific approach to fully appreciate the Cascade: take the escalators up to the top, enjoying the art and views as you ascend, and then walk back down. This allows for a more leisurely exploration of the sculptures and architectural details on the descent, ensuring you don't miss any of the artistic nuances.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
For the most breathtaking panoramic views of Yerevan, make your way to the top of the Cascade. From here, you can capture the sprawling city, especially during the golden hour or at night when the city lights twinkle. With clear skies, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Ararat in the distance. The contrast between the modern art installations and the historic cityscape is a recurring theme that makes for compelling photographs.
When photographing the interior galleries, remember to be mindful of any photography restrictions. While many contemporary art spaces permit non-flash photography, it's always best to check for signage or inquire with staff to ensure you're respecting the artwork and the venue's policies. The interplay of light and shadow within the galleries can also create dramatic photographic opportunities.
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