PLACES OF HISTORICAL INTERESTS
 

In Armenia one of the national treasures is the Matenadaran. The Matenadaran is a modern Museum-Library in Yerevan that houses over 100,000 great Armenian masterpieces such as ivory carvings dating back to the sixth century AD; documents; priceless illustrated manuscripts and Gospels of great beauty; works by Aristotle, Eusebius, Zeno, and other famous notables, ancient poems, and medical manuscripts.

As you approach the entrance of the Matenadaran, there is a statue of Mesrob Mashtots, the founder of the Armenian alphabet. There are also statues of historians, philosophers, scientists, and artists that stand like guardians along the front arches of the building. Inside the library, there are hand written parchment editions of Arabic, Ethiopian, Greek, Latin, Persian, Syriac, Hebrew, and other foreign authors. The Matenadaran was designed by Mark Grigorian in 1937.

As you continue to tour Yerevan, there is the Armenian Genocide Monument (Tzitzernakaberd), which was constructed to commemorate the 50 anniversary of the Genocide of one and half million Armenians, perpetrated by the Ottoman Turks, April 24, 1915. The eternal memorial flame inside the fortress at Tzitzernakaberd is surrounded by twelve imposing pylons representing the twelve provinces where Armenians were massacred. The flame burns to represent the Armenian spirit, which can never be extinguished. The monument, which means “Citadel of Swallows”, is named for a bird that always returns to its nest, even if its home has been destroyed. A massive outburst of Armenian emotion inspired the building of the memorial. The location of the monument creates a powerful feeling of sadness and solitude. People of all ages and professions visit the monument to express their respects to all those who perished in the genocide. A unique portion of the monument is the tall, needle-shaped shaft beside it, which represents the rebirth of the Armenian people. April 24 has been designated as Armenian Martyrs’ Day, and for many Armenians, it is the day that represents a time to renew their commitment to gain Turkish recognition of the genocide. 

Another historic site to visit is Khor Virab. Khor Virab, which is built like a fortress, is where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned in a deep “Pit” for 14 years, by King Tiridates III in 287, after the saint refused to acknowledge the goddess Anahit. When you stand on the wall of Khor Virab you will have a breathtaking view of Mount Ararat.

A popular vacation area in Armenia is Lake Sevan. Lake Sevan is considered to be the largest fresh water lake in Armenia.; This year-round vacation resort is a popular place for swimming, sailing and other recreational activities. The beautiful lake is also the habitat of the trout-like fish called the Ishkhan, or prince fish, and is a source of hydroelectric power and irrigation for Armenia. The lake is 6286 feet above sea level, has a surface of 547 square miles, and is 312 feet deep. Almost twenty-five rivers and brooks flow into this lake.

The Monastery of Geghard is an intriguing place to visit. It is located in one of the hidden valleys of Armenia.The entire church complex of the thirteenth century Geghard Monastery is actually part of the land, and the caves and dark passageways are carved out of the face of the mountain. The caves of Geghard, or the Holy Lance, was a frequent visiting place of St. Gregory when he retreated to the area during his solemn prayers. Also, the ancient church at Geghard currently holds the Roman’s soldier’s lance that pierced Christ’s side during the Crucifixion. 

One of the most famous monuments in Armenia is Sardarabad.

Located approximately 15 miles from Etchmiadzin, the Monument was built after the famous battle in May 26, 1918, to pay tribute to the Armenians who fought of the Turkish armies that invaded Armenia in 1918. It is an emotional place to visit when you see the magnificent architectural edifices that proclaim the victory of the battle. The statue of the ancient stone bulls with wings stand on either side of the monument as protectors of Armenia, walls, sculptures of poised eagles and stallions surrounded by flames, and the bell tower which was constructed in 1968 is a shrine to Armenians all over the world. 

Finally, a visit to Holy Etchmiazin is a must! The district of Holy Etchmiadzin is the Vatican City of Armenia, and the center of the Armenian Apostolic church traditionally believed to be established in 301. It is the current location of the Armenian Cathedral and Holy See. The Armenian Catholicos, or Pope, resides there. The significance of Etchmiadzin means, “The place where the Only Begotten has descended.” The complex in Etchmiadzin houses the Catholicos’s residence, the cathedral, a seminary, a museum, outdoor gardens, and many monuments. The Etchmiadzin Museum exhibits ancient manuscripts, tapestries, jeweled icons, and other treasures. 

After a visit to these places and more, Armenia will be with you forever. 
Pari Jamport (Good trip)!