Kond District Information | Photos | Location

Tucked into the winding hills of central Yerevan, Kond is more than just a district—it’s a living slice of history. As the oldest quarter of Yerevan, its narrow, cobblestone alleys and age-worn stone houses transport you back in time. This is where the heart of historic Yerevan still beats, a place where neighbors gather on benches, children laugh in the streets, and every weathered door holds a story.

🌄 Best Time to Visit

• Spring & Autumn: Mild weather makes exploring steep lanes and open-air murals comfortable.

• Morning or Early Afternoon: Streets are quiet, and the light beautifully illuminates ancient façades.

• Avoid Rainy Days: Slippery stones and uneven terrain can make walking tricky.

🏰 What to See & Do

• St. Hovhannes Church: This 1710 church, rebuilt after the 1679 earthquake, sits proudly at Kond’s highest point—an active place of worship with a charming community center beside it.

• Tapebashi Mosque Ruins: Traces of an old Persian mosque (built 1687), later repurposed by refugees—look for the thick walls, small dome, and historical intrigue.

• Street Art: Bright murals now defy the aging stone, with local artists transforming alleys into a #KondGallery open-air canvas.

• Kond Tunnel: For adventure seekers, a 480 m tunnel leads under the hill to Hrazdan Gorge, covered in layered graffiti and offering an unexpected escape.

• Traditional Life: Take a seat on a stone bench, sip tea with locals, watch women washing dishes at neighborhood springs, and feel the pulse of real Yerevan.

🛍️ Hidden Gems & Local Insights

• Melik Aghamalyan House: Once a princely mansion known as the “fortress on Tapebashi Street,” it whispers of a more opulent past.

• Old Baths & Water Springs: Remnants of public baths and century-old street faucets still serve residents and add charm to daily life.

• Home Visits: Some tours offer a peek inside century-old homes where families offer compote and share memories—authentic connection guaranteed.

• Art Hub: The underground “Kond House” bar, once an oligarch’s home, now hosts cocktails in an intimate, bohemian setting—an unexpected cultural surprise.

🚶 Getting There & Navigating Kond

• On Foot: From Republic Square, walk northeast up the hill—a scenic 15–20-minute stroll. Bring comfy, sturdy shoes.

• Taxi/App Ride: Quick and easy via Yandex Go, GG, or Utaxi—drop-off near Saryan or Proshyan streets.

• Guided Walks: Local walking tours bring the history and legends to life, ending with tea in a Kond home.

🍽️ Nearby Food Spots

While Kond doesn’t host many restaurants, you’re a short walk from excellent eats:

• Café or Street Snacks: Try jingalov hats or gata from nearby vendors.

• Lavash Restaurant: A few minutes away, excellent for traditional Armenian fare.

• Saryan Street (“Wine Street”): Pair a stroll in Kond with a wine tasting just downhill in stylish bars like In Vino, Wine Republic, or Enoteca.

⚠️ Travel Tips & Safety

• Respect: Kond is a living neighborhood. Be mindful of privacy, especially in alleys and courtyards.

• Stay on Paths: Avoid walking over fragile rooftops or ruins.

• Chat With Care: Locals are friendly and may invite you for tea—feel free, it's genuine hospitality, not a scam.

• Watch Your Step: The streets are uneven, and worn cobblestones can be slippery.

• Best Access: Early in the day for fewer people and softer light—ideal for photography.

Why Kond Belongs on Your Yerevan Journey

If Yerevan is Armenia’s big, beautiful story, Kond is its most intimate chapter. Here you discover the layers of time—from Persian rule and noble villas to Soviet neglect and modern street art. It’s a place where living history meets genuine human connection. Wander for an hour or a half-day—either way, Kond offers an unforgettable, soul-stirring experience that stays with you long after you leave its winding lanes.