Cascade

The Cascade is a monumental travertine staircase complex in the heart of Yerevan, designed by architects Jim Torosyan, Aslan Mkhitaryan, and Sargis Gurzadyan. Construction began during the Soviet era but stalled after the USSR's collapse; it was revived in the 2000s by philanthropist Gerard Cafesjian, who transformed the terraces into an outdoor sculpture gallery featuring works by Fernando Botero, Lyn Foulkes, and other international artists. Visitors can either climb the open-air steps or ride the escalators housed inside the structure — both routes lead to a sweeping panorama over Yerevan's rooftops. On clear days, the snow-capped silhouette of Mount Ararat is visible across the Turkish border, making this the city's most iconic vantage point.