RESTAURANTS
NATIONAL CUISINE
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Ghapama
Ghapama is a traditional Armenian dish made with stuffed pumpkin, which symbolizes abundance and goodness.
According to national tradition, ghapama was served on the wedding table as a sign of prosperity. To prepare the dish, the top of the pumpkin is cut off like a lid, and the core, along with the seeds, is removed. The walls of the pumpkin are coated with butter from the inside, then stuffed with rice, dried fruits, fresh fruits, legumes, and seasoned with honey, sugar, and cinnamon. The stuffed pumpkin is covered with a lid and placed in the oven until it is completely soft and golden.
NATIONAL DRINKS
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Armenian wines: a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts
Armenia is one of the oldest winemaking centers in the world, with a history spanning thousands of years. Winemaking in Armenia is not just a craft, but a part of culture.
In 2007, an archaeological expedition discovered the world’s oldest winemaking complex in the Areni-1 (Birds) cave near the village of Areni. The vessels found here, with wine residues, grape seeds and winemaking tools, jugs and a wine press, testify that wine was produced in Armenia as early as 6000 BC. On that occasion, Armenia was recognized as the oldest country of wine production in 2011.
According to biblical tradition, Noah, descending from Mount Ararat, planted the first vine, laying the foundation for the tradition of winemaking in the territory of Armenia. Greek historians Herodotus, Xenophon and Strabo mention that Armenian wines and spirits have been exported to neighboring countries since ancient times due to their high quality.
