
Modern Art Museum of Yerevan: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Guide to Yerevan Historical Sites
Introduction
The Modern Art Museum of Yerevan (MAMY) stands as a cornerstone of Armenia’s cultural landscape, dedicated exclusively to modern and contemporary Armenian art. Founded in 1972 by art historian Henrik Igityan, the museum has played a pivotal role in championing avant-garde creativity, especially during eras of artistic constraint under Soviet rule. Today, MAMY offers visitors access to a unique collection of over 2,300 works, dynamic exhibitions, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yerevan (Modern Art Museum of Yerevan Official Site; Levon Travel; Advantour). This guide provides essential details on visiting hours, ticketing, guided tours, and nearby historical sites, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable experience.
Location and Accessibility
MAMY is centrally located at 7 Mashtots Avenue, Kentron District, Yerevan (Advantour; Yerevan.am). The museum is easily accessible by foot from Republic Square and is well-served by public transport, including buses and taxis. The ground-floor location ensures convenient access for visitors with mobility challenges.
Key Facilities
- Museum Shop: Art books, catalogs, and souvenirs
- Restrooms & Cloakroom: For visitor convenience
- Seating Areas: For rest and contemplation
- Audio Guides: Availability varies, check in advance
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Step-free entrance and accessible pathways
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Opening Hours
- Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Hours may vary on public holidays; always check the official website before your visit.
Admission Fees (as of June 2025)
- Adults: 1,500 AMD (approx. $3.99 USD)
- Students: 1,000 AMD
- Schoolchildren: 500 AMD
- Pre-school children, pensioners, war participants, military personnel, and persons with disabilities: Free (with documentation)
- ICOM/ICOMOS members: Free
- Last Saturday of each month: Free admission for Republic of Armenia citizens (Yerevan.am)
Guided Tours
- Armenian: 2,000 AMD
- English or Russian: 4,000 AMD
Advance booking is recommended for group or foreign-language tours (Modern Art Museum Official Site).
Museum Collection and Exhibitions
Core Collection
MAMY’s collection is a testament to the evolution of Armenian modern and contemporary art, featuring iconic works by:
- Minas Avetisyan: Expressive landscapes and bold use of color
- Ashot Hovhannisyan: Abstract compositions
- Martin Petrosyan: Fusing Armenian tradition with modernism
- Gayane Khachaturian: Poetic, surrealist-inspired pieces
- Hakob Hakobyan: Psychological depth in portraiture
- Vruyr Galstyan: Painter and noted art historian
- Rudolf Khachatryan: Surreal, symbolic imagery
The collection also showcases artists from the 1980s onward, including Sargis Hamalbashian, Marine Dilyan, Teni Vardanyan, and others, reflecting the ever-evolving Armenian art scene (Modern Art Museum of Yerevan – About Us).
Diaspora and International Artists
MAMY actively includes artists from the Armenian diaspora, such as Emil Kazaz (USA), Karen Petrosyan (Canada), and Talin Zabunyan (France), fostering a global artistic dialogue (Modern Art Museum of Yerevan – About Us).
Temporary Exhibitions and Projects
Regularly updated temporary exhibitions highlight both established and emerging artists, as well as collaborative projects with international partners (Modern Art Museum of Yerevan – Projects; Wikipedia). Check the official website or social media for current programming.
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
- Languages: Armenian, English, Russian
- Duration: 45–60 minutes
- Booking: Available via the museum website or by phone
- Educational Workshops: Occasional workshops and lectures, particularly for students and art enthusiasts
Visitor Experience & Atmosphere
Visitors consistently praise the museum’s serene, well-lit ambiance and helpful staff. The layout across three spacious halls offers an intimate setting for reflection and exploration. The museum’s shop provides a curated selection of art-related publications and souvenirs.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Best Times: Weekdays and mornings for quieter visits; last Saturday of each month is free for Armenian citizens but may be busier
- Language: Signage in Armenian and English
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; contact ahead for specific needs
- Photography: Non-flash photography is generally permitted for personal use—confirm with staff upon arrival
- Payment: Armenian dram (AMD) preferred; have cash on hand as credit card acceptance may vary
Safety, Conduct, and COVID-19 Measures
- Large bags must be left at the cloakroom
- No food or drink allowed in exhibition halls
- Respectful behavior and supervision of children are required
- As of June 2025, most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but check the museum website for any updates
Nearby Yerevan Historical Sites & Attractions
MAMY’s central location makes it easy to combine your visit with other key cultural sites, such as:
- National Gallery of Armenia
- History Museum of Yerevan
- Republic Square
- Blue Mosque
- Kond District
- Cafes and shops along Mashtots Avenue and Tumanyan Street
For broader exploration, see Tourist Places Guide, Armenia Travel Festival Calendar, and Yerevan Arts Corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Modern Art Museum of Yerevan visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays.
Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase tickets at the museum entrance. Guided tours require advance booking.
Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the entrance and galleries are wheelchair accessible.
Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, for an additional fee.
Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in most areas; check with staff.
Q: Are there free admission days?
A: The last Saturday of each month is free for Armenian citizens.
Contact Information
- Address: 7 Mashtots Avenue, Yerevan, Armenia
- Phone: +374 10 535359 / +374 10 539637
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: modern-art-museum.mus.am
Conclusion
The Modern Art Museum of Yerevan is an essential destination for anyone seeking to engage with Armenia’s vibrant modern and contemporary art scene. Its extensive collection, welcoming environment, and central location make it ideal for both art connoisseurs and casual visitors. By combining your museum visit with exploration of nearby historical sites, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Yerevan’s rich cultural tapestry. For the latest news, events, and digital resources, always consult the official museum website and consider downloading the Audiala app for enhanced experiences. Make the Modern Art Museum of Yerevan a highlight of your visit to Armenia.
References
- Modern Art Museum of Yerevan Official Site
- Artuyt
- About the Museum (MAMY)
- Levon Travel
- Advantour
- Yerevan.am
- Wikipedia
- Tourist Places Guide
- Armenia Travel Festival Calendar
- Yerevan Arts Corridor