Cascade Yerevan: A Magnificent Stairway to Art and History!

Last Updated on October 28, 2025 by Aram Vardanyan

I remember seeing the Cascade Yerevan for the first time when I was a kid and not understanding its purpose.

Yet, over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the immense value of this architectural masterpiece.

If you’re planning a trip to Armenia, you’ve likely seen pictures of this massive white staircase rising dramatically from the city center.

The Yerevan Cascade Complex is much more than just a Yerevan attraction; it’s a vital monumental structure that connects the city center (Kentron) with the elevated Kanaker-Zeytun district, a true symbol of Yerevan.

As a local, I’m here to give you the inside scoop, covering everything from the number of steps to the world-class art you’ll find within.

A History of Yerevan Cascade Complex

The story of the Yerevan cascade is a fascinating journey through Armenia’s 20th-century history. If your hotel in Yerevan is overlooking the Cascade, then you are lucky.

The Cascade’s history begins with Alexander Tamanian’s master plan for Yerevan in the 1920s, who envisioned a system of terraces, waterfalls, and gardens to link the city center with the northern hills (his monument now stands at the base, symbolizing old and new architecture).

However, this dream was interrupted and later revived in the early 1970s by architect Jim Torosyan, who re-envisioned the design as a multifunctional public space complete with hidden escalators and exhibition halls.

Construction began around 1980, but the project was halted by the devastating 1988 Spitak earthquake and the subsequent collapse of the Soviet Union.

The turning point came in 2002 when Armenian-American philanthropist Gerard Cafesjian initiated the restoration project, donating a staggering $128 million toward the reconstruction.

The restored Cascade Complex in Yerevan reopened on November 17, 2009. However, the top part is still unfinished.

How to Get to Yerevan Cascade Complex

The Cascade Yerevan is located right in front of the monument to Alexander Tamanian, near the intersection of three major streets: Marshal Baghramyan, Moskovyan, and Mashtots Avenue.

It is positioned approximately 1.7 kilometers (about 1 mile) north of Yerevan’s Republic Square.

Getting There is Easy:

• Metro: The closest metro stop is Yeritasardakan Station, located less than 700 meters away (approximately a 10-minute walk).
• Walking: If you are staying in the center of Yerevan, the Cascade is easily accessible on foot.
• Public Transportation (Bus/Metro): A single ride on public transportation costs 150 AMD (approximately $0.40 USD).
• Taxi: Local services like Yandex Taxi or GG Taxi are readily available. A ride within the city center to the Cascade will typically cost around 800 AMD (approximately $2 USD).

Address: 10 Tamanyan St, Yerevan

Visitor Hours and Cost (Must-Know Information)

If you’re wondering about Yerevan Cascade tickets, here’s some great news: a visit to the Cascade Complex in Yerevan is FREE.

However, the opening hours depend on where you want to go:

• Escalator Hall (Daily Access): Open every day, from 08:00 to 20:00.
• Exhibition Halls, Museum Shop, and Visitor Center (Art Access): Open only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 10:00 to 20:00.

What Can You See at Cascade Yerevan?

The Yerevan Cascade is a fusion of physical challenge, panoramic views, and artistic exploration. The structure itself is a notable achievement, featuring 572 steps across five main terraces; however, visitors can also take the indoor escalator to the top if they prefer.

The View of Ararat

My personal favorite things to do at Cascade from the higher levels, as a reward for walking all the way up, are to see the panoramic views of Yerevan, with the chance to see also Mount Ararat on a clear day, and the Revived Armenia obelisk on the Monumental Terrace.

Cafesjian Sculpture Garden & Cafesjian Center for the Arts

Inside and around the complex is the Cafesjian Center for the Arts (CCA).

The outdoor Cafesjian Sculpture Garden serves as an outdoor gallery displaying works by renowned international artists, notably several large pieces by Fernando Botero (like the Roman Warrior and Gato).

Inside this Yerevan museum, you can find profound Armenian historical works, such as the monumental triptych History of Armenia in the Khanjyan Gallery and bas-reliefs depicting the epic tale of David of Sasun.

The CCA is also home to the world’s most big collections of contemporary glass art.

Cascade Architecture

Architecturally, the complex masterfully blends Soviet modernism with traditional Armenian design, using local milky white tuff and travertine.

As you ascend, look closely at the steps for detailed Armenian historical patterns like khachkars, grapevines, and pomegranates.

Finally, the area surrounding the Cascade is a key community hub, lined with popular cafés and restaurants where locals gather, and it often hosts classical and jazz concerts in the warmer months.

What to See Near Cascade

• Victory Park: A large hilltop park and war memorial featuring the massive Mother Armenia statue, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Matenadaran: The central research institute and museum housing one of the world’s most significant collections of ancient Armenian manuscripts.
• Lovers’ Park: A small, serene, and carefully designed urban space in the city center, known for its Japanese-inspired landscape architecture.
• Yerevan Opera House: An iconic architectural landmark designed by Alexander Tamanian, serving as the city’s main venue for opera, ballet, and classical performances.

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