Grave of Alexander Spendiarian near Yerevan Opera in May 2018

Grave Of Alexander Spendiaryan

Alexander Spendiaryan Grave Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide – Yerevan, Armenia

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Honoring Armenia’s Musical Pioneer

In the very heart of Yerevan, Armenia, the grave and house museum of Alexander Spendiaryan stand as powerful tributes to the founder of Armenian national symphonic music. Spendiaryan’s innovative blend of Armenian folk melodies and Western symphonic traditions forever altered Armenia’s cultural landscape, and his influence echoes through the generations—most notably inspiring figures like Aram Khachaturian. Both his gravesite, located in Freedom Square near the State Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the adjacent house museum preserve his creative legacy, offering visitors a profound encounter with Armenian history and artistry (Groong; Visit Yerevan; Spendiaryan Museum).

This comprehensive guide details visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, historical significance, practical tips, and nearby attractions such as Republic Square and the Komitas State Conservatory. Whether you are a music enthusiast, history scholar, or cultural tourist, this guide ensures a meaningful and memorable visit to Armenia’s rich musical heritage.

Why Visit Alexander Spendiaryan’s Grave and House Museum?

Visiting the grave and house museum of Alexander Spendiaryan provides a unique blend of Armenian national identity, musical innovation, and historical reverence. Located at the epicenter of Yerevan’s cultural district, these sites immerse visitors in the life and legacy of an artist whose work laid the foundations for modern Armenian classical music.

Grave of Alexander Spendiarian at the Opera of Yerevan in May 2018

Alexander Spendiaryan tomb near the opera in Yerevan

Historical Background and Legacy

Early Life and Musical Formation

Alexander Spendiaryan (also Spendiarov or Spendiaryan) was born in 1871 in Kakhovka, then part of the Russian Empire. His Armenian-Ukrainian heritage and early exposure to music set the stage for his future achievements. Though he initially studied law at Moscow University, Spendiaryan’s passion for music led him to train under N. Klenowsky in Moscow, and later, the legendary Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in St. Petersburg (Wikipedia; apo.am).

Artistic Career and Major Works

Spendiaryan’s career flourished in Crimea and Yalta, where he led musical and dramatic ensembles and became a member of the Yalta Russian Musical Company. His international acclaim grew with the composition and performance of the “Three Palms Symphony” in Berlin, Copenhagen, and New York (Groong).

Notable Works:

Opera “Almast”: Inspired by Hovhannes Tumanyan’s poem, “Almast” stands as a cornerstone of Armenian opera (Wikipedia).
Symphonic Works: Including “Crimean Sketches,” “Yerevan Etudes,” and “Three Palms Symphony.”
Chamber and Vocal Music: Songs like “Oh Rose” (Aye Vart) and unique chamber pieces, often featuring Armenian folk instruments.

Founding Armenian National Symphonic Music

Spendiaryan’s arrival in Yerevan in 1924 initiated a new era for Armenian music. He conducted Armenia’s first symphony concert and laid the groundwork for the future State Orchestra (Wikipedia). His vision and mentorship gave rise to the Armenian national school of composition and influenced generations of composers (apo.am).

Final Years and Burial

Settling in Yerevan, Spendiaryan served as Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra. He died in 1928 and was buried at the Yerevan State Opera and Ballet Theatre, his gravesite now a revered monument (Wikipedia).

Visiting Alexander Spendiaryan’s Grave: Details and Tips

Location and Urban Context

The grave is located in Freedom Square (Azatutyan Hraparak), adjacent to the National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre named after Spendiaryan. This lively urban square is surrounded by landmarks like Swan Lake, cafes, and is within walking distance of Republic Square, the Komitas State Conservatory, and Matenadaran (Visit Yerevan; Mapcarta).

Monument Details

Unveiled in 1957 by architects Grigor Aghababyan, Phoenix Darbinyan, and sculptors Ara Sargsyan and Ghukas Chubaryan, the monument features Spendiaryan seated in an armchair, engrossed in a musical score. The statue, atop a pink granite pedestal, stands in dialogue with the nearby Hovhannes Tumanyan statue, symbolizing Armenia’s artistic heritage (Visit Yerevan).

Visiting Hours and Accessibility

Grave Site: Open 24/7, as it is in a public square. No ticket required.
Accessibility: The grave and monument area are wheelchair accessible, with paved walkways and ramps.
Etiquette: Maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor, especially during commemorative events or when others are paying respects.

Nearby Attractions

Yerevan Opera and Ballet Theatre: Hosts regular performances (Opera.am).
Swan Lake: Picturesque reservoir and walking paths.
Monuments to Tumanyan and Khachaturian: Located nearby for further cultural exploration.
Cascade Complex, Republic Square, and Matenadaran: All within easy reach for a comprehensive tour of Yerevan’s historical sites (Mapcarta).

Alexander Spendiaryan House Museum: What to Expect

Location and Hours

Address: 21 Nalbandyan Street, Yerevan (Spendiaryan Museum).
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–18:00; closed Mondays and public holidays.
Admission: ~3.19 USD (hyurservice.com).

Museum Highlights

Authentic Study: Spendiaryan’s piano, violins, manuscripts, death mask, and personal memorabilia.
Exhibits: Portrait by Martiros Saryan, original “Almast” premiere poster, and the “Spendiarophone.”
Interactive Experiences: Virtual orchestra conducting, musical workshops, and educational programs (janarmenia.com).

Accessibility and Tours

The museum is wheelchair accessible.
Guided tours available in Armenian, Russian, and English; advance booking recommended.

Planning Your Visit: Essential Information

Getting There

Metro: Closest station is “Yeritasardakan,” a 10-minute walk to Opera Square.
Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Yandex Go and GG Taxi are reliable, with city center fares around $2–$4 USD.
Public Transport: Multiple bus and minibus routes stop nearby.

Best Times to Visit

Seasons: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer the best weather.
Museum Night: Annual free-entry events with special programs.

Facilities & Amenities

Benches, gardens, and public restrooms (inside the Opera Theatre during opening hours).
Numerous nearby cafes and restaurants.
Wi-Fi widely available in public areas.

Practical Tips

Dress Modestly: Particularly for performances.
Photography: Permitted at the grave and outdoors; check with museum staff for indoor policies.
Language: Signage in Armenian and English; staff often speak Russian and English.
Safety: The area is safe and well-patrolled.

Special Events and Educational Programs

The grave and memorial are focal points for official ceremonies, musical tributes, and educational tours, especially on national holidays and significant anniversaries. The House Museum organizes concerts, workshops, and sometimes offers cocoa made from Spendiaryan’s own recipe during special events (Spendiaryan Museum).

Souvenirs and Local Culture

Purchase recordings, books, and memorabilia at the House Museum or Opera Theatre. Interact with local musicians and artists in Opera Square, especially during festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the grave and museum visiting hours?
A: The grave is accessible 24/7; the House Museum is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–18:00.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: The grave is free to visit; the House Museum charges a modest admission.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, at the House Museum in multiple languages with advance booking.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: The grave and Opera Square are accessible; the museum is as well, but check ahead for specific needs.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: House Museum tickets are available onsite; Opera Theatre performance tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.

Q: What other sites are nearby?
A: Republic Square, Cascade Complex, Matenadaran, and more are within walking distance.

Visual Highlights

Suggested images:

Spendiaryan’s grave and monument with Opera House backdrop (alt: “Alexander Spendiaryan grave at Yerevan Opera House”)
House Museum interior with piano and artifacts (alt: “Alexander Spendiaryan House Museum interior”)
Martiros Saryan’s portrait of Spendiaryan (alt: “Portrait of Alexander Spendiaryan by Martiros Saryan”)
Original 1933 “Almast” poster (alt: “Almast opera premiere poster”)

Useful Contacts

Alexander Spendiaryan House-Museum: +374 10 521 299 (Araratour)
Opera Theatre Box Office: Opera.am
Yerevan Tourist Information: Visit Yerevan

Conclusion: Experience Armenia’s Musical Heritage

A visit to Alexander Spendiaryan’s grave and house museum is more than a tribute—it’s an immersive journey into the soul of Armenian music and culture. By planning your trip with the information in this guide, you’ll gain meaningful insights into Spendiaryan’s life and the vibrant context of Yerevan’s historic center. Don’t forget to download the Audiala app for guided tours, and follow us for updates on events and cultural experiences across Armenia.

Sources and Further Reading

Visiting Alexander Spendiaryan’s Grave and House Museum in Yerevan: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights, 2025, Groong (http://www.groong.org/orig/rb-20080625.html)
Alexander Spendiaryan Grave in Yerevan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance, 2025, Visit Yerevan (https://visityerevan.am/places/details/335/en/)
Visiting Spendiaryan’s Memorial in Yerevan: Hours, Tickets & Cultural Significance, 2025, Caucasian Challenge (https://www.caucasianchallenge.com/from-before-christ-to-post-dubsteppe-armenian-music-part-one/)
Visiting the Grave of Alexander Spendiaryan: Hours, Tickets, and Yerevan Historical Sites Guide, 2025, Araratour (https://araratour.com/house-museum-of-alexander-spendiaryan)
Alexander Spendiaryan - Wikipedia, 2025, Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Spendiaryan)
Alexander Spendiaryan House Museum Official Website, 2025, Spendiaryan Museum (https://spendiaryanmuseum.am/htmls_eng/museum_about.html)
Things to Do in Yerevan, 2025, Wide World Trips (https://www.wideworldtrips.com/things-to-do-in-yerevan/)
Mapcarta - Freedom Square and Surroundings, 2025, Mapcarta (https://mapcarta.com/N5614911627)
Opera.am - Yerevan Opera and Ballet Theatre, 2025, Opera.am (https://opera.am/en)