The Cascade architectural complex is located in the northern part of the Old Town of Yerevan. Here the Kanaker Hills rise above the city. The cascade is a huge staircase with five open terraces. The total height of the Cascade reaches 302 meters (572 steps). From the upper platform there is a beautiful view of the Old City of Yerevan and Mount Ararat towering above it.
The Cascade architectural complex is one of the most famous sights of Yerevan, as is the Republic Square. At the foot of the Cascade there is a square with fountains and sculptures, which stretches from the terraces of the Cascade to France Square for 200 meters. This is a large area where you can come for an excursion during the day or for walks in the evenings. In the sculpture garden of Gafeschan, you can see about two dozen sculptures in the Art Nouveau style.
At the beginning of the square, at the foot of the Cascade, there is a monument to architect Alexander Tamayan, who in 1924 prepared the general plan of Yerevan. Thanks to him, the modern image of Yerevan was formed. In this plan, he designed the Cascade, but could not build it. The construction of the Cascade was postponed for various reasons. It began in the 1980s, but then was interrupted due to the collapse of the Soviet Union.
In 2002, Gerard Gafeschan, an American businessman of Armenian descent, allocated money for the creation of the Cascade. Thanks to him, the Cascade has become not only a city landmark, but also a symbol of the spiritual and cultural revival of Armenia.
On the five terraces of the cascade staircase there are sculptures, fountains and more than 10 exhibition halls. They tell about the history of Armenia, national culture and art. Exhibitions are constantly held here. The Gafeschyan Art Center has opened in one of the halls. The philanthropist has transferred many paintings of modern art from his collection here. Among them there are paintings by Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, Arshile Gorka and others.
The area at the top of the Cascade requires reconstruction. Behind this territory, a stele to the 50th anniversary of the October Revolution is installed on the very top of the Kanaker Hills. Nearby there is a viewing point and the Charles Aznavour House Museum.
