Elizabeth Stanton's Great Big World Season 6 Episode 1 The Culture of Armenia

Elizabeth Stanton's Great Big World is a travel and adventure show that follows host Elizabeth Stanton as she explores unique cultures and experiences from around the world. Season 6 episode 1, "The Culture of Armenia", takes viewers on a journey to discover the rich history, traditions, and cuisine of this ancient and fascinating country.

The episode begins with Stanton arriving in the capital city of Yerevan, where she meets with locals and begins to learn about the vibrant culture and history of Armenia. She visits the Armenian Genocide Memorial to pay respects to the approximately 1.5 million Armenians who were killed by Ottoman Turks in 1915. This deeply emotional experience sets the tone for the rest of Stanton's journey, as she seeks to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Armenian people throughout history.

Stanton then explores Yerevan's bustling markets and colorful streets, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. She meets with locals and learns about traditional Armenian crafts such as carpet weaving and pottery, and visits a local bakery to try traditional Armenian bread.

Next, Stanton travels to the ancient city of Gyumri, which was devastated by an earthquake in 1988 but has since been rebuilt. Here, she visits an art gallery and meets with local artists who use their work to document the history and culture of Armenia.

Stanton also learns about the importance of religion in Armenian culture, visiting several stunning churches and monasteries, including the Geghard Monastery, which is carved into a mountain and considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The episode also explores Armenian cuisine, with Stanton trying traditional dishes such as khorovats (grilled meat), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and lavash (Armenian bread). She also visits a winery to learn about the country's wine-making traditions and tries some of the local vintage.

Throughout the episode, Stanton focuses on the resilience and spirit of the Armenian people, who have faced centuries of challenges but remain proud of their culture and traditions. She meets with locals who express hope for the future of Armenia and the preservation of its unique heritage.

Overall, "The Culture of Armenia" is a fascinating and inspiring exploration of a country that is often overlooked but has a rich and complex history and culture. Stanton's enthusiasm and curiosity make her the perfect guide for viewers looking to learn more about this beautiful and vibrant country.