August 2 - Yerevan, here I come

I was happy to leave the shabby apartement and then set off for the remaining 100 km to Yerevan. The roller coaster continued, sometimes with breathtaking views of of Mt. Aragats, the largest mountain in Armania.

The kilometers were eaten up quite quickly and when there was less than thirty, I decided to do a detour and visit the first Christian church in the world, Echmiatsin, and an archeological site of Zvartnots, both on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Zvartnots was more impressive, it was the remains of a cathedral destroyed in the 1oth century.

Yerevan was only 20 km away, though these were tough 20 kilometers. The car drivers are rather agressive, I was overtaken both left and right - then it was time to continue on the pavement.

I find the city impressive. Set on a hill in an otherwise barren surroundings, it resembles a European capital, with trees providing shade and long boulvards. Especially impressive is the Square of the Republic. The town is full of cafes and restaurants, where nicely clad city folks are enjoying the pleasant evening. My hotel is near the center - and I had found a bike shop agreeing to repair the broken spoke, while my laundry is being cleaned. I like to get a fresh start on things!

 

Now I will go to my hotel, Albert House, where I will lay down to sleep - for the very reasonable price of Eur 26. Such a hotel back home would cost Eur 62 (at least). Good night!