Yerevan Cascade

Yerevan Cascade
The Yerevan Cascade
General information
Type	staircase
Location	Yerevan, Armenia
Elevation	118 m (387 ft)
Construction started	1971
Completed	1980
Inaugurated	17 November 2009
Owner	Yerevan Municipality
Design and construction
Architect	Jim Torosyan, Aslan Mkhitaryan, Sargis Gurzadyan

The Cascade (Armenian: Կասկադ Kaskad), is a giant stairway in Yerevan, Armenia. It links the downtown Kentron area of Yerevan with the Monument neighborhood. The construction of the cascade designed by architects Jim Torosyan, Aslan Mkhitaryan, Sargis Gurzadyan was launched in 1971 and completed in 1980.

Inside the Cascade, underneath the exterior steps are a couple of escalators going the length of the complex. There are also rooms connected to some of the landings along the escalators which compose the Cafesjian Museum of Art.

The exterior of cascade, in addition to stairs has multiple levels with fountains and sculptures. The stairs afford walkers unobstructed views of central Yerevan and Mount Ararat.

History

Nighttime view of Yerevan from the Cascade

The construction began in 1971, during the Soviet period. The first phase was completed in 1980. Further development was implemented between 2002 and 2009 when the complex was handed over to the American-Armenian businessman Gerard Cafesjian in the early 2000s and a complete renovation was performed. A large museum complex was also planned for the top. Although the construction of the museum was launched, it was frozen in the early stages and has not continued for years.

Gallery

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  First level

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  Second level

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  Third level

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  Fourth level

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  Fifth level

See also

• Cafesjian Museum of Art
• Potemkin Stairs