Yerevan maybe the political, economic and cultural center of Armenia, but it seems too laid back to be considered a capital city. It is a relaxed and safe place where the people live in a very calm existence, but somehow the traffic is quite different. Once a region under Soviet Russian rule, you can find many 19th century Russian monuments and buildings in the heart of the city. The cultural essence of the city is very strong, as you will find many museums, theatres, concert halls, galleries and live music clubs scattered around the city.