Amberd Fortress | Ashtarak

Information

Landmark: Amberd Fortress
City: Ashtarak
Country: Armenia
Continent: Asia

Amberd Fortress, Ashtarak, Armenia, Asia

The St. Johnsbury Center Historic Area is a designated district in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, preserving a collection of 19th and early 20th-century commercial and civic buildings.

Visual Characteristics

The area features a concentration of brick and stone buildings, primarily in the Italianate and Queen Anne architectural styles. Structures typically range from two to four stories in height. Common materials include red brick, granite, and sandstone. Architectural details include decorative cornices, arched windows, and varied rooflines.

Location & Access Logistics

The historic area is situated in the downtown core of St. Johnsbury, centered around Main Street and Railroad Street. It is approximately 0.5km from the I-91 Exit 18 interchange. Ample on-street parking is available along Main Street and side streets, with additional municipal lots located behind the main commercial blocks. The St. Johnsbury Transit bus system serves the downtown area with multiple routes, including Route 2 and Route 5, with stops directly within the historic district.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The St. Johnsbury Center Historic Area developed as the commercial and civic hub of the town from the mid-19th century through the early 20th century. Key buildings were constructed following the town's incorporation and subsequent growth as a manufacturing and transportation center. The area's development is intrinsically linked to the arrival of the railroad and the expansion of industries such as Fairbanks scales.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the architectural styles of the period. Walking tours focusing on the historical development of the downtown are available through local historical societies. The Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, located at the edge of the district, offers exhibits on natural history and science. Shopping in the independent retail establishments is a primary activity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within public buildings and some retail establishments. Shade is provided by mature trees along sidewalks and awnings of some businesses. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the area. Food vendors and restaurants are located within the historic district and immediately adjacent blocks.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting on building facades, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The months of May through October offer the most pleasant weather for walking and outdoor exploration. Winter months can present challenging weather conditions.

Facts & Legends

The St. Johnsbury Center Historic Area was significantly impacted by the construction of the railroad, which spurred much of its architectural development. A notable historical oddity is the presence of the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, founded by the sons of Thaddeus Fairbanks, inventor of the platform scale, whose factory was a major economic driver for the town.