What is the best pulpulak in Yerevan? I set out across the capital with a film camera and a parched throat, in search of the answer.
The sun scoffs at you, you sweaty, dehydrated human. It’s 34 degrees (yes, Celsius) in Yerevan, and there’s nothing you can do about it. But, wait. What’s that? A pulpulak? How could it be? What is this free public oasis in the middle of the street overflowing with sweet, sweet water itself?
Since their first appearance in the 1920s, these stone-based creations have become a notable Armenian cultural emblem. In addition to quenching your thirst with fresh spring water, the structures are often made in honor of a person’s legacy and feature an engraved name, symbol, or quote. Fun fact: next time you bow your head down to take a sip, you’re also paying your respects to them.
Just the city of Yerevan alone has hundreds of these fountains erected on almost every street corner. If you’re ever in search of a specific one, just check out pulpulak.am, which features all of the water fountains in the city alongside a rating and feedback system that accounts for everything from temperature to design.
So the critical question emerged: What is the best pulpulak in Yerevan? I set out across the capital with a film camera and a parched throat, in search of the answer.
This one’s got a bit of history. Erected right in the city center’s Republic Square, the pulpulak was built in 1965 by Spartak Khntekhtsyan and restored four decades later by the artist Nur. Its name, Seven Springs, is inspired by a legend about heroes who drank from Mount Aragats’ seven springs for strength and courage.
Unlike others, aesthetic and symbolism rank high for this fountain: each drinking hole features an Armenian letter; a cross is placed in the structure’s center; and the corners read “To Yerevan from Yerevan” in four languages. With its high accommodation capacity, Seven Springs is a great place to stop at without the pressure to rush your drinking. Keep in mind, you do risk making potentially awkward eye contact with the thirsty stranger in front of you, as well as the hustle and bustle of Hraparak’s foot traffic.
A lone pulpulak, but many compete for its goods, human and non-human alike. Simple but consistent, this one would tell many stories if it could speak. Tourists, delivery workers, and even animals are familiar with this street’s renowned staple. Local pigeon Gagik shared that this pulpulak “is a pretty chill place to hang out.” He noted its capacity for taking a quick bath and getting some fresh, clean water. “I’m tired of drinking from those dirty puddles. We deserve the good stuff too,” he shared. Fair enough, Gagik.
The surrounding area, however, is a bit chaotic. In addition to being placed right at an intersection, there are some wonky moving tiles surrounding it. Due to its placement on one of Yerevan’s busiest streets, you’ll have to speed up your sip. Chug quickly and move on.
Nestled at the entrance into a public yard, otherwise known as a bak, this pulpulak is, well, random. It’s got two tiers, though the lower one (presumably for children) doesn’t work. Adorned with a rose vine design, this marble fountain was dedicated to a man named Norik and built by his friends. One wonders whether Norik lived on Zakyan Street and if he enjoyed spending time with his friends in that courtyard. In any case, this quiet fountain guarantees a peaceful drinking experience without much interruption or noise.
According to a review from pulpulak.am, a Costa Rican-Armenian Alec recommends it, claiming that water does, in fact, come out. What more could we ask for?
Similar to pharmacies and nail salons in Yerevan, pulpulaks seem to be in competition with each other. Surrounded by a few other pulpulaks within a 3-minute walking distance, this water fountain may suffer from self-esteem issues. However, its marble stone and noteworthy slanted design give it a unique triangular shape from the side. Placed in front of a coffee stand, you can hydrate properly before your caffeine fix. While it’s on a street corner, you won’t get as much pressure to hurry up as some of the others described above. Hey, you might even be able to fill up your water bottle too.
Sources: https://www.armenianexplorer.com/article/pulpulak—water-fountain-in-armenia
Photos: Mariam Vahradyan
