The Cafesjian Center for the Arts, also known as the Cafesjian Museum Foundation, is a premier art museum located in Yerevan, Armenia. It is situated in the heart of the city within and around the Cascade Complex, which is widely considered one of the most beautiful locations in the "Pink City." The center was founded by the prominent Armenian-American businessman and philanthropist, Gerard L. Cafesjian.
Opened in 2009, the museum showcases a diverse range of contemporary art alongside unique permanent pieces. Beyond its world-class exhibitions, the Center hosts various educational programs designed for both adults and children. Since its inauguration, the CCA has become a major cultural hub, welcoming over one million visitors annually.
The museum’s interior was designed by New York-based architect David Hotson. The New York Times famously described the center as a mad work of architectural resurrection and one of the most strange and spectacular museum buildings to open in this century.
The museum is divided into two main areas. The external portion, known as the Cafesjian Sculpture Garden, features monumental works that the public can enjoy while walking up the Cascade stairs. The internal portion consists of the Art Galleries, which include the Khanjyan Gallery, Eagle Gallery, Sasuntsi Davit Garden Gallery, and the Star Landing. A standout project within these galleries is the Swarovski Crystal Palace, an immersive and magical installation by Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen.
The core of the museum’s display is based on Gerard Cafesjian’s private collection of over 5,000 works. It features one of the world's most comprehensive collections of contemporary glass art, highlighted by the masterpieces of Czech artists Stanislav Libenský and Jaroslava Brychtová. The galleries also house works by world-renowned masters such as Andy Warhol, Dale Chihuly, Hiroshi Yamano, and Lino Tagliapietra.
The Escalator Gallery is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The Exhibition Galleries, Museum Store, and Visitor Center are open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Please note that the center is closed on National Holidays.
