ArmInfo.The regular gastro yard was opened in Ashtarak within the framework of the UNDP Integrated Rural Tourism Development program. According to the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, a kamancha museum was opened at the gastro-yard (Armenian national four-stringed musical instrument – Ed. note).
The gastro-yard in Ashtarak is unique as in addition to the Armenian national cuisine, tourists will also get acquainted with the culture of the country. In this particular case, the guests of the Ashtarak gastro-yard will learn about kamancha, about the process of its manufacture, and will even be able to enjoy during dinner the musicians playing this instrument.
As of today, 35 gastro-yards are already operating in the republic, of which 23 contain a wine component. According to UNDP program coordinator Arman Vanesyan, wine gastronomy yards are open not only in areas famous for their wine-making culture. A similar approach, he said, helps to improve the quality of the wine produced. "Within the framework of the program, we provide the villager with equipment and specialist services, which helps to improve the quality of wines," Vanesyan said. In particular, he referred to the experience of the beneficiary of one of the wine gastro-yards, who, based on high demand, increased the grape harvest from 1 ton to 5 tons. Moreover, income from tourists increased from 3 thousand to 6-10 thousand drams.
In total, within the framework of this program, 60 gastro-yards will be opened throughout the republic, which will create jobs for residents of rural areas. The total cost of the program is $ 3 million. Of this amount, $ 500 thousand was allocated for the construction of gastro-yards. The Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia additionally allocated 60 million drams for the implementation of the program.