Water as a landmark of Armenia
Among the many things that Armenia is famous for, water occupies a special place. From natural fresh and mineral waters to pure tap water, water in Armenia is important both for people and for the country in general.
Clean drinking water is available almost throughout the country. People buy bottled water from the store very rarely, and water filters are not that popular. This is because there is always access to clean water at home, you just need to turn the tap on. Drinking water in Armenia comes from natural underground sources. Except for a few settlements, almost the entire country is supplied with clean water that does not need to be boiled or filtered. The quality of drinking water in Armenia meets international standards.
All this, to some extent, has a positive effect on the environment, since there is no need to constantly buy water, which is almost always sold in plastic bottles. And if you buy bottled water, you can keep the bottle, fill it with clean tap water and reuse it.
Landmark
pulpulak
In Armenia, you don’t have to worry if you forgot your bottle of water. There are many convenient drinking fountains all over the country. Cold and pure water flows from these fountains and saves many people from thirst. Armenians call these fountains “pulpulak”. This word describes the sound of water splashing from the fountains. Water in pulpulaks also saves animals from thirst. It is very common to see birds drinking water and bathing near the pulpulaks. Also, there are more and more pulpulaks installed specially for stray animals.
Pulpulaks are often a part of general urban architecture. Many of them are so beautiful that they can be considered a separate art form. One of such pulpulaks is the “Seven Springs” (Յոթ աղբյուր), which is located on Republic Square in Yerevan. The author of this drinking fountain is the Armenian architect Spartak Knteghtsyan. In 2010, the tips of the drinking fountain were restored. The author of these tips is the Armeian designer and jeweler Arman Nur. One of the interesting facts about this pulpulak is that it can serve as sundial.