History

The first record of Yerevan was found in the historical literature of the VIth century. Archaeological excavations and cuneiform inscriptions indicated that modern Yerevan appeared at the fortress Erebuni, built by Urartian king Argishti I in 782 BC., and presumably hence derived the name of the city. Since the mid of the XIIIth century the role of Yerevan, as the political and economic center in connection with the emergence of caravan routes passing through Yerevan.

The city became the regional capital of the Muslim khanates and Persian rulers. Here were intensively developing caravan trade and craft.

In 1826-28 Yerevan was captured by Russian troops and annexed to Russia. Yerevan became the capital of Armenia, and since 1849 the capital of the province.By the beginning of XX century the city population totaled up to 29 033 inhabitants. Ethnic composition included Muslim nations like Tatars, Kurds, Persians which made up 49% of the population, and the Christian nations like Armenians - 48%, Russian - 2%. There were 8 churches and 7 mosque. Peter and Paul churches, built in the V century were the oldest ones, Zoravar Church (1691-1705) was known for the legend according to which Apostle Ananias was buried there. From Erivan mosques the only one extent is Guseynali Khan (Blue Mosque), built in 1776, was recently reconstructed by Iranian masters.

In 1902, there were built the first railway line through Erivan that assisted in economic growth of the city. Yerevan has become the major industrial, cultural and scientific center, where were built about 200 large industrial enterprises. In 1912 the wine industry became the leading industrial sectors of the city. Over the years of Soviet power, Yerevan turned from a small town into one of the largest industrial centers of the Caucasus.

On the 21st of September, 1991 was held a referendum on secession from the USSR. September, 23 the Supreme Council of Armenia adopted the results of the referendum and declared the independence of the Republic of Armenia. Thus, Yerevan became the capital of the independent Armenian Republic.