Gyumri, Armenia - take note Christchurch

Today north to Guymri, Armenia’s second largest city. In 1988 Guymri was decimated by an earthquake. 90% of the town destroyed and 25,000 citizens died. However, they have since rebuilt most the city, including the Cathedral.
A prompt decision was made to demolish the badly damaged Cathedral, keeping the old belltower as a churchyard memorial. The Cathedral was then rebuilt using modern materials.
Town now looking good and while we were there fizzing with a Saturday festival – closed streets, lots of families, live bands and street entertainers. However, I failed to spy a new Guymri rugby stadium ☹.
We didn’t eat dinner in the city but taken to the local fish farm for a delicious dinner of rainbow trout and sturgeon.
Armenia has provided us with a variety of historical and geographical sites, plus interesting foods. At one place we were taught how to make Lavash, a simple Armenian flat bread which can be used for wraps, dips, soups etc. We then made our own sandwiches using fresh herbs and salads. A summer recipe to remember.Read more