About

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture (now: Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport) since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 403 monuments (comprising 4 volumes): 233 monuments from the Armenian settlement of Madras (Chennay), India, and 170 from Khlat District of Western Armenia. All the 4 volumes of the monument questionnaires were handed to the Ministry within the time limits set in the agreement. On the whole, the number of the documented Armenian monuments located outside the Republic of Armenia is now 4,440.

RESEARCH TRIPS

Research in Western Armenia remaining high on the list of the RAA priorities, we made an expedition there from 29 July until 27 August. By the way, most members of our research team are banned to enter Georgia; that is why we have to travel to Western Armenia via Iran (the border between Armenia and Turkey is closed): this takes us about 2 days (the same also refers to the way back), while the way via Georgia requires only 4 or 5 hours.

Research was carried out in Erzrum, Kars, Moks, Shatakh and Van-Tosp Districts as well as in Boon Sasun, Hazo-Khabljoz, Maratuk (Verin Kharzan) and Psank Districts of Sasun.

From 30 September until 14 October, studies were carried out in Rasht and Enzeli Cities of Iran.

Between 27 November and 1 December, a short trip was made to the cities of Kars and Ani in Kars Region.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Mravakank [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian, the fourth volume in the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia: the volume is devoted to two districts, Shahumian, which is under Azerbaijanian occupation, and Karvajar, which has been liberated by the Armenian troops. The volume saw the light thanks to the financial assistance of Ralf Yirikian, the General Manager of VivaCell-MTS (MTS Armenia CJSC).

2. Salmast (by Samvel Karapetian), the second volume in the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia, in English translation: published thanks to the financial assistance of Mr. Daniel Sahakian.

3. The Historical Monuments of Aghenjadzor, Taratumb, Karaglukh and Salli Villages [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian: published with the assistance of the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets.

4. Khojivank [in English] by Samvel Karapetian, the 19th volume of the RAA Scientific Research Series: edited by Boston-based Ara Ghazarians, published with the financial means of Shushik Martirossian.

5. A calendar for 2020 devoted to Parspatunik (Gharadagh), the next volume of the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES AND FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. Parspatunik (Gharadagh) and Khnus [in Armenian], the next volumes of the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia.

2. The Armenian Epigraphy of Georgia [in Armenian]; 3. The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian]. Both these works are based on data and materials gathered for over 37 years.

4. Armenian Fountains [in Armenian, Russian and English];

5. Hambardzum Yeramian’s Life and Activities [in Armenian].

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WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

During the year, the RAA websites raa.am (raa-am.com) and armenianarchitecture.am were enriched with new data.

The further development of the website based on Sargis Darchinian’s archives has been temporarily stopped: the already completed part of the website has undergone a format change, being adapted for a wider use as universal archives. To make these archives more widely used, we have started programming for the development of the converter ANSI – UTF-8. It will enable us to automatically convert all types of data entry done in the foundation with ANSI (ASCII) coding into unicode UTF-8 coding. This programming work is still underway. Once it is completed, the foundation will have an administrative website for domestic use which will enable us to coordinate all our completed studies and publications in a special database (ElasticSearch, MySQL).

IMAGE DIGITISATION

During the year, 17,647 images were digitised, with which the RAA database came to comprise a total of 553,000 images (535,353 as of the end of 2018).

3-D Modelling

In 2019 the RAA specialists worked out the 3-D reconstructions of the following monuments: Aghjkaberd Fortress of the historical Armenian capital of Ani, as well as the cave church and guest house of this ghost city. The 3-D modelling of Gagkashen Church of Ani is still underway.

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 370 monuments (comprising 4 volumes) from the Armenian settlements of Seydabad and Chinsurah (Chichra), India, and from Shenadzor and Sparkert Sub-Districts, Khizan District, Western Armenia. All the 4 volumes of the monument questionnaires were handed to the Ministry of Culture within the time limits set in the agreement. On the whole, the monuments documented since 2010 now total 4,040 (mainly from Western Armenia).

RESEARCH TRIPS

Research in Western Armenia remaining high on the list of the RAA priorities, we made an expedition there from 11 July until 9 August, and despite the current political tension, our studies proved quite fruitful. By the way, most members of our research team are banned to enter Georgia; that is why we have to travel to Western Armenia via Iran (the border between Armenia and Turkey is closed): this takes us about 2 days (the same also refers to the way back), while the way via Georgia requires only 4 or 5 hours.

Research was carried out in Baghesh, Bayazet, Timar, Mush, Sasun and Van-Tosp Districts of Western Armenia.

From 24 September until 22 October, studies were conducted in Gharadagh District, East Azerbaijan Province, Iran, to gather more information for the forthcoming RAA publication, Gharadagh (to be published under the patronage of Janet Mirzayan from Los Angeles).

During the year, we also worked in Artsakh, and in Aragatzotn, Ararat, Lori, Shirak, Syunik and Vayots Dzor Regions of the Republic of Armenia.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Artzke [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian, the third volume in the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia (published by the state order);

2. The Birthplaces of Genocide Survivors in the Epitaphs of Lebanon [in Armenian] by Lori Tashjian (published with the financial means of the RAA Foundation);

3. Northern Artsakh [in Russian] by Samvel Karapetian (published in Moscow on the initiative of Aniv Foundation and under the patronage of Artyom Kostandian);

4. A calendar for 2019 devoted to the fourth volume of the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia, Mravakank.

In March, thanks to the efforts of the RA Ministry of Diaspora, we at last received the RAA books (about 1.5 tons) that had been published in Beirut, Lebanon, in 2003 to 2004: for over 15 years, we were unable to organise the transportation of these books due to our financial hardships.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES AND FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. Salmast [in English] by Samvel Karapetian, the second in the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia: the English translation of the book, which started late in 2017, continued in 2018. The work will be ready for publication early in 2019.

2. Mravakank [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian, the fourth volume in the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia: this book, the preparation of which started during the year, will be ready for publication in February 2019.

3. Khojivank [in English] by Samvel Karapetian (edited by Boston-based Ara Ghazarian): the book will be published in 2019 under the patronage of Boston-based Shoushik Martirossian;

4. Khojivank [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

5. The Armenian Epigraphy of Georgia [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

6. The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian (to be published with the financial support of A. Tovmassian and several Armenians from London, UK). Both these works are based on data and materials gathered for over 35 years.

7. Hambardzum Yeramian’s Life and Activities [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

8. Armenian Fountains [in Russian] by Samvel Karapetian.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The RAA official website, raa.am, was enriched with new data; besides, certain structural changes were made to the new version of the website without the interruption of data entry.

Armen Gevorgian, the RAA programmer, studied the system NodeJs – ES6 – ElasticSearch as a new programming environment which will later be used to expand search possibilities in future projects.

This new environment has already been used for the programming of a trial version of a system of data entry and search in the website based on Sargis Darchinian’s archives, which was worked out in 2017.

During the year, we also continued uploading of data in the website armenianarchitecture.am.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

During the year, 19,058 images were digitised, with which the RAA database came to comprise a total of 535,353 images (516,295 as of the end of 2017).

3-D Modelling

In 2018 the RAA specialists worked out the 3-D reconstructions of the following monuments: the churches of Mezhenkert and Artzvaber, as well as the Cathedral, Karakhoran (Four-Apse) Church and bridge of the ghost city of Ani. The 3-D modelling of the guest house of Ani is underway.

For the forthcoming RAA publication entitled Mravakank, the 3-D reconstructions of the 1658 princely glkhatun (a type of traditional house) of Tzar and of the 1275 funerary memorial of Chapni have been prepared.

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 400 monuments (comprising 5 volumes) from the Armenian settlement of Calcutta, India, and from Karjkan District, Western Armenia. All the 5 volumes of the monument questionnaires were handed to the Ministry of Culture within the time limits set in the agreement. On the whole, the monuments documented since 2010 now total 3,470 (mainly from Western Armenia).

RESEARCH TRIPS

Research in Western Armenia remaining high on the list of the RAA priorities, we made a trip there in July 2017, and despite the current political tension, our studies proved quite fruitful. By the way, most members of our research team are banned to enter Georgia; that is why we have to travel to Western Armenia via Iran (the border between Armenia and Turkey is closed): this takes us about 2 days (the same also refers to the way back), while the way via Georgia requires only 4 or 5 hours.

Research was carried out in Arjesh, Gyavash, Karjkan, Khnus and Bagrevand Districts of Western Armenia.

From 20 March until 3 April 2017, several RAA members not banned to enter Georgia made a scientific trip to this country.

From 27 June until 10 July, studies were conducted in Salmast District, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran, to gather more information for the forthcoming RAA publication, Salmast District. Another research trip was made to Iran in October.

During the year, we also worked in Artsakh, and in Meghri District, Syunik Region, Republic of Armenia.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Salmast [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian, the second in the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia (published with the financial support of Daniel Sahakian, who is from Khosrova Village of Salmast District);

2. Azerbaijan Out of Civilization [in Armenian, Russian & English] by Samvel Karapetian (publication sponsors: architect Narek Sargissian and Mon-Arch Company);

3. A calendar for 2018 devoted to Salmast District.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES AND FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. Salmast [in English] by Samvel Karapetian, the second in the RAA 36-volume series entitled History of Armenia. The English translation of the book, which started late in 2016, is now underway, parallel with the page design of the completed parts. The work will be ready for publication early in 2019.

2. The Armenian Epigraphy of Georgia [in Armenian];

3. The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian] (to be published with the financial support of A. Tovmassian and several Armenians from London, UK). Both these works are based on data and materials gathered for over 35 years.

During the year, the RAA continued working at Sargis Darchinian’s archives.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The RAA official website, raa.am, was enriched with new data; besides, certain structural changes were made to the new version of the website without the interruption of data entry.

Parallel with this, the RAA completed the software development for the new (responsive, mobile-first) version of the website raa.am.

Certain software changes have been made to the programme Diary, which is intended for internal use.

The RAA continued software development for the website based on Sargis Darchinian’s archives. A preliminary version of the future website has already been worked out.

During the year, the RAA also worked on the design of a new section of the website raa.am which is to present the 3D reconstructions of destroyed historical Armenian monuments carried out by the specialists of the Foundation.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

During the year, 50,492 images were digitised, with which the RAA database came to comprise a total of 516,295 images (465,803 as of the end of 2016).

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 470 monuments (comprising 5 volumes) from the Armenian settlements of Surat and Agra, India, as well as from Karjkan District of Western Armenia. On the whole, the monuments documented since 2010 now total 3,270 (mainly from Western Armenia). Another 400 monuments will be documented in 2017.

RESEARCH TRIPS

Research in Western Armenia remains high on the list of the RAA priorities, but in 2016 no trips were made there due to the ongoing armed conflict between the local Turks and Kurds. Instead, studies were conducted in Georgia, where the RAA has been working for already many years.

From August until September 2016, the RAA carried out research in Urmia District, Iran. The field work which lasted for 30 days (some studies were also made in the districts adjacent to Urmia) proved highly efficient, the RAA supporters in Iran greatly contributing to its productivity.

During the year research was also carried out in Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

In 2016 the RAA started studies in Meghri District (the historical Armenian district of Arevik), Syunik Region, Republic of Armenia, faced with the fact that the lapidary heritage of the district has not been ever put into scientific circulation, and only a small part of its architectural monuments have been studied.

PLANNED TRIPS

Two research trips to Western Armenia (each for a month) are planned, indeed, if political circumstances prove favourable for this. In case this turns out impossible, field work is to be carried out in Georgia and Iran.

Studies are also planned in the liberated district of Karvajar, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), for the purpose of completing a forthcoming work on Shahumian District (Mravakank).

PUBLICATIONS

1. Another Genocide after the Genocide [in Armenian, Turkish & English] by Samvel Karapetian;

2. Vardzk no. 11 [in Armenian];

3. Vardzk no. 12 [in Armenian];

4. Artsakh: A Cartographic Album [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian (also available online in Russian & English);

5. The Historical Monuments of Kesab District [in English] by Raffi Kortoshian;

6. A calendar for 2017 featuring Armenian fountains.

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. Azerbaijan Out of Civilization [in Armenian, Russian & English] (to be published with the financial support of Mon-Arch Company);

2. Hambardzum Yeramian [in Armenian];

3. Khojivank [in English] (edited by A. Ghazarian, Boston, USA);

4. Northern Artsakh [in Russian] (translation sponsor: Artyom Kostandian from Moscow, RF);

It should be noted that the Russian translation of Northern Artsakh became possible especially through the strenuous efforts of Armen Khechoyan, an ardent and enthusiastic supporter of the RAA activities representing the Armenological journal Aniv (published in Minsk, Belarus).

5. Aristakes Tevkants [in Armenian];

6. Yeremia Tevkants [in Armenian];

7. The Armenian Settlements of India [in Armenian];

8. Caucasian Albania Proper [in Armenian];

9. The Birthplaces of Genocide Survivors in the Epitaphs of Lebanon [in Armenian] by Lori Tashjian;

10. Armenian Fountains [in Armenian, Russian & English] (prepared in partnership with the Armenological journal Aniv, Minsk, Belarus);

11. The Armenian Epigraphy of Georgia [in Armenian];

12. The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian] (to be published with the financial support of A. Tovmassian and several Armenians from London, UK);

13. Armenians in Daghestan;

14. Relics of Armenian Art in Syria [in Armenian and English] by Raffi Kortoshian;

15. The Birthplaces of Genocide Survivors in the Armenian Epitaphs of Lebanon [in Armenian] by Lori Tashjian;

16. Ermenice Ögrenim Kitabi, a Turkish-Armenian manual for self-tuition by Raffi Kortoshian, a revised version (first published in 2007);

17. Salmast District [in Armenian & English] (to be published within the book series History of Armenia with the financial support of D. Sahakian from Los Angeles, who is from Salmast in origin);

18. Varazhnunik (Khnus) District [in Armenian] (within the book series History of Armenia);

19. Hark (Bulanegh) District [in Armenian] (within the book series History of Armenia);

20. Mravakank [in Armenian] (within the book series History of Armenia; presenting the Azerbaijanian-occupied district of Shahumian, Republic of Artsakh, and the liberated district of Karvajar that has been renamed Shahumian);

21. Kajberunik and Bznunik (Arjesh and Artzke) Districts [in Armenian] (within the book series History of Armenia);

22. Arevik District [in Armenian] (within the book series History of Armenia);

23. Sargis Kamalian’s Literary Heritage [in Armenian];

24. Archimandrite Khachik Dadian’s Literary Heritage [in Armenian].

The literary heritage of both Sargis Kamalian and Archimandrite Khachik Dadian, containing important materials relating to Armenian archaeology, ethnography, folk-lore, epigraphy, topography and other important branches of Armenology, is almost entirely unpublished, due to which, their immense contribution to these fields remains unknown. To fill in this gap, the RAA has started the preliminary work of typing their handwritten works, after which they will be published.

SARGIS DARCHINIAN’s ARCHIVES

The late photographer Sargis Darchinian spent most of his life diligently collecting information (photos, press publications, archive documents, etc.) on the Armenian monuments (including houses and public buildings) of Tiflis and Georgia in general. After his untimely death in 2013, his archives, containing thousands of photos as well as information regarding over 12,000 houses, were passed to the RAA through the efforts of Bishop V. Mirzakhanian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Georgia. Since 2015 the RAA has been working at these archives (around 190 thick folders) the complete development of which requires long-term activities.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The RAA official website, raa.am, was enriched with new data; besides, certain software additions and structural changes were made to it.

Parallel with this, the RAA started developing a new (responsive, mobile-first) version of the website raa.am.

Certain software changes have been made to the programme Diary, which is intended for internal use.

The RAA started software development for a website to be based on Sargis Darchinian’s archives. A preliminary version of the future website has been worked out.

Late in 2016, the RAA began designing two new sections of the website raa.am one of which is to present the restoration activities of the organisation and the other the 3D reconstructions of destroyed historical Armenian monuments carried out by the RAA specialists.

During the year, we also continued uploading of data in the website armenianarchitecture.am.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

During the year, 21,812 images were digitised, with which the RAA database came to comprise a total of 465,803 images (443,991 as of the end of 2015).

PRESS CONFERENCES

During the year, the RAA members participated in a number of press conferences presenting the activities of the foundation.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

On 24 February 2016, during the annual Haykian Awards Ceremony, Samvel Karapetian received a Special Prize from President of Armenia Serzh Sargissian for the project Another Genocide after the Genocide carried out in 2015 in commemoration of the Centenary of the Armenian Genocide (1915 to 2015). The Haykian Award, which was established in 2001 by the Youth Foundation of Armenia, a partner organisation of the President of the Republic of Armenia, aims at encouraging the achievements of youth organisations and the youth in general.

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 470 monuments (comprising 5 volumes) from Artzke District of Western Armenia. On the whole, the monuments of Western Armenia documented since 2010 now total 2,810. Another 470 monuments will be documented in 2016.

RESEARCH TRIPS

Research in Western Armenia remains high on the list of the RAA priorities, but in 2015 no trips were made there due to the ongoing armed conflict between the local Turks and Kurds. Instead, studies were conducted in Georgia, where the RAA has been working for already many years.

Research was also carried out in the Republics of Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

PLANNED TRIPS

Two research trips to Western Armenia (each for a month) are planned, indeed, if political circumstances prove favourable for this. In case this turns out impossible, field work is to be carried out in Georgia and Iran.

Between March and April 2016, field work is also planned in the liberated district of Karvajar, at present forming part of Shahumian District of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), for the purpose of completing another book entitled Mravakank.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Hayots Dzor [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian, the first volume of the book series entitled History of Armenia;

2. Hayots Dzor: A Map-Guide to Historical Monuments [in Armenian & English] by Samvel Karapetian;

3. The Restoration of Dad Monastery between 1997 and 2011 [in Armenian] by Samvel Ayvazian;

4. Another Genocide after the Genocide [in Armenian, Russian & English] by Samvel Karapetian;

5. The Historical Monuments of Arinj Village [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

6. Vardzk no. 1, English Version.

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. Aristakes Tevkants [in Armenian];

2. Yeremia Tevkants [in Armenian];

3. Khojivank [in Armenian];

4. The Armenian Settlements of India [in Armenian];

5. Caucasian Albania Proper [in Armenian];

6. Northern Artsakh (in Russian, translation sponsor: Artyom Kostandian from Moscow, RF);

7. The second volume of the book series entitled History of Armenia;

8. 3 to 4 issues of the journal Vardzk (at least electronic versions);

9. The Springs of Armenia [in Armenian];

10. Azerbaijan and Civilisation [in Armenian] (sponsor: RA Ministry of Urban Planning);

11. Armenians in Daghestan (supposed sponsor: RA Ministry of Diaspora);

12. Mravakank

It should be noted that the Russian translation of Northern Artsakh became possible especially through the strenuous efforts of Armen Khechoyan, an ardent and enthusiastic supporter of the activities of the RAA representing the Armenological journal Aniv (published in Minsk, Belarus).

BOOKS READY FOR PUBLICATION

1. Relics of Armenian Art in Syria [in Armenian and English] by Raffi Kortoshian;

2. The Birthplaces of Genocide Survivors in the Armenian Epitaphs of Lebanon [in Armenian] by Lori Tashjian;

3. Ermenice Ögrenim Kitabi, a Turkish-Armenian manual for self-tuition by Raffi Kortoshian, a revised version (first published in 2007).

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The RAA official website, raa.am, was enriched with new data; besides, certain software additions and changes were made to it.

Within the framework of a new project, the website armenianmonumentsimages.com was developed to enable users to carry out search of RAA archive photos. The programming of the website was implemented jointly with programmer Vardan Kocharian.

The RAA, in collaboration with Mariam Mosinian, has begun preliminary work for the programming of another website which is to expose the cultural genocide against Armenian monuments.

Certain software additions, regarding the entry of foreign archives, have been made to the RAA domestic database.

During the year, the RAA specialists also continued uploading of data in the website armenianarchitecture.am.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

During the year, 54,529 images were digitised, with which the RAA database came to comprise a total of 443,991 images (389,462 as of the end of 2014).

FILMS

In 2015 the RAA had to stop the production of documentaries due to financial hardships.

EXHIBITIONS

Cultural Genocide: The Value of Cross-Stones. The exhibition of cross-stones (khachkars) and photos (initiative by Yerevan City Hall), open in the park between Nalbandian and Hanrapetutyan Streets, Yerevan, RA, from 20 April until October 2015, commemorated the centenary of the Armenian Genocide (1915 to 2015). The exhibition also exposed the cultural genocide ongoing in Western Armenia since 1915 through photos and informative sign-boards provided by RAA Foundation.

Another Genocide after the Genocide. The exhibition exposing the cultural genocide perpetrated against the Armenian heritage of Western Armenia opened in the Architects’ Union of Armenia, Yerevan, RA, on 17 July.

Armenian Architecture in Iran. On 29 October 2015, Hovhannes Tumanian Museum, Yerevan, RA, hosted an exhibition of Armenian cultural monuments preserved in the historical Armenian districts of Iran (Artaz, Khoy, Salmast, etc.) and in the Armenian settlements of the country. The exhibition (in three languages: Armenian, Persian and English) was prepared by the RAA on the initiative, and under the patronage, of the Cultural Centre of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Armenia.

PRESENTATIONS

On 12 March 2015, the museum of Hovhannes Tumanian, Yerevan, RA, hosted the presentation of Hayots Dzor [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian, the first volume of the book series entitled History of Armenia.

Within the Fifth Armenian Media Forum (At the Foot of Ararat) Dedicated to the Centenary of the Armenian Genocide, held in Yerevan between 18 and 20 March 2015, Gayane Movsissian from the RAA made a report (on 20 March) on the condition of Armenian monuments in Western Armenia. The report was followed by the RAA documentary Another Genocide after the Genocide.

On 22 April 2015, Narekatsy Art Centre, Yerevan, RA, hosted the presentation of the documentary Bekhents or Kusanats Convent (director: Tiran Karapetian; script by Samvel Karapetian; reconstruction projects by architect-consultant Ashot Hakobian; 3D modelling by Pargev Frankian; music by Aydin Davoudi).

PRESS CONFERENCES

During the year, the RAA members participated in a number of press conferences (17 and 20 March, 19 May, 28 October and 16 December) presenting the new publications of the foundation.

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 470 monuments from Hayots Dzor and Arjesh Districts of Western Armenia. On the whole, the monuments documented since 2010 now total 2,340. More documentation is planned for 2015.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

Studies in Western Armenia remain high on the priority list of the RAA. Regretfully, due to financial hardships, in 2014 only a single trip was made to this land: it lasted from 2 until 25 July, our field work yielding over 5,000 photos, and about 120 measurements of various monuments.

As for 2015, we are planning two research trips to Western Armenia.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

During the year short trips were made to Tavush, Kotayk, Aragatzotn and Ararat Regions of the Republic of Armenia.

It should be noted that our studies in Kotayk Region were carried out under the patronage of Vardan Harutiunian, Chairman of the Board and Director General of GAZPROM ARMENIA CJSC, with the aim of preparing illustrated booklets presenting the brief history and cultural heritage of several local villages.

On 28 May 2014, a trip was made to Spitakavor Sourb Astvatzatzin Monastery and Proshaberd Castle, both in Vayots Dzor Region.

On 21 June the members of the RAA attended an exhibition held in Sardarapat, Armavir Region, on the occasion of the Day of Blacksmiths. They also visited the site and museum of Metzamor in the same region.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Project of a 36-Volume Series History of Armenia, a trilingual (Armenian, Russian & English) booklet presenting the new RAA series;

2. The Historical Monuments of Kaputan Village [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

3. The Historical Monuments of Kotayk Village [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

4. The Historical Monuments of Norgyugh and Mayakovski Villages [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

5. The Historical Monuments of Akunk and Katnaghbyur Villages [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

6. The Historical Monuments of Zar and Sevaberd Villages [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

7. The Historical Monuments of Kesab District [in Armenian] by Raffi Kortoshian (publication sponsored by Birthright Armenia Foundation);

8. Armenian Bridges: An Exhibition, a booklet in Armenian;

9. Armenia (second edition) [in Armenian, Russian & English] by Samvel Karapetian.

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. Aristakes Tevkants [in Armenian];

2. Yeremia Tevkants [in Armenian];

3. Khojivank [in Armenian];

4. The Armenian Settlements of India [in Armenian];

5. Caucasian Albania Proper [in Armenian];

6. Vardzk no. 1 (English version);

7. The Restoration of Dad Monastery between 1997 and 2011 [in Armenian] by Samvel Ayvazian;

8. The Historical Monuments of Arinj Village [in Armenian];

9. The Armenian Inscriptions of Lebanon [in Armenian] by Lori Tashjian;

10. Works [in Armenian] by Yeremia Tevkants;

11. The first (Hayots Dzor) and second volumes [both in Armenian] of the book series History of Armenia;

12. Two issues of the journal Vardzk [in Armenian];

13. Northern Artsakh & Javakhk (both in Russian, translation sponsors: Artyom Kostandian from Moscow, RF, and a benefactor from Javakhk);

14. Another Genocide after the Genocide [in Armenian, Russian & English].

It should be noted that the Russian translation of Northern Artsakh and Javakhk became possible especially through the strenuous efforts of Armen Khechoyan, an ardent and enthusiastic supporter of the activities of the RAA representing the Armenological journal Aniv (published in Minsk, Belarus).

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The development of the website www.raa.am was completed: now it is under testing and will be published in 2015.

Additionally, a new website is under construction for the presentation of the digital images of the RAA archives.

As part of our 2015 activities, we are also planning to develop another website called Cultural Genocide to expose the annihilation of historical Armenian monuments in Western Armenia.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

During the year 38,405 images were digitised, with which the RAA database came to comprise a total of 389,462 images (351,057 as of the end of 2013).

FILMS

Two documentaries, Shatakh and Kusanats (Virgins’) Convent, were released in 2014 together with a video material presenting the new RAA series of 36 volumes entitled History of Armenia.

On 20 February and in October 2014, the Architects’ Union of Armenia hosted the presentation of the films Gagkashen Church and Shatakh respectively.

During the year English subtitles were prepared for all the Armenian-language RAA documentaries that are available on RAA Armenia YouTube Channel.

At present the production of another documentary on Hayots Dzor District of Armenia Maior is underway.

EXHIBITIONS

On 4 November 2014, the opening of an exhibition of historical Armenian bridges (sponsor: ACBA-CREDIT AGRICOLE BANK) took place in the Museum of Hovhannes Tumanian, Yerevan, RA. It was held in commemoration of the 350th anniversary of the construction of a bridge (1664) in Ashtarak Town, Aragatzotn Region, RA, by merchant Grigor from Yerevan. The exhibition closed on 25 November 2014.

PRESS CONFERENCES

In 2014 the members of the RAA participated in several press conferences (17 January, 19 February, 10 December) during which they presented the new publications of the foundation.

PRESENTATIONS

On 20 February 2014, the presentation of the film Gagkashen Church (2013) took place in the Architects’ Union of Armenia (director: Tiran Karapetian; script by Samvel Karapetian), Yerevan.

On 23 September 2014, the RA Ministry of Diaspora hosted the presentation of The Historical Monuments of Kesab District [in Armenian] by Raffi Kortoshian.

On 27 September 2014, the presentation of the documentary Shatakh (2014) was held in the Architects’ Union of Armenia (director: Tiran Karapetian; script by Samvel Karapetian).

PRIZES AND AWARDS

In commemoration of the International Day for Monuments and Sites (18 April), in May 2014 the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia conferred a gold medal on Samvel Karapetian for his invaluable research activities in the field of monumentology, and his efforts for raising awareness of Armenian cultural heritage.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2015 presents the historical Armenian district of Hayots Dzor.

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 470 monuments during the year.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In 2013 two research trips were made to Western Armenia, one of them lasting from 21 July until 17 August, and the other from 22 September until 2 October.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

Chronologically speaking, our studies carried out in different regions of the country represent the following picture:

20 to 22 March – Tavush Region;

31 March to 2 April – Lori and Tavush Regions;

26 to 27 May – Lori and Tavush Regions;

6 to 13 July – Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor and Siunik Regions.

The trips to Tavush and Lori Regions also pursued the aim of carrying out work within the SOS Culture project, which was finally completed on 18 October 2013.

RESEARCH IN GEORGIA

From 4 until 12 May 2013, the RAA team worked in Georgia.

PUBLICATIONS

1. The Historical Monuments of Voskepar [in Armenian and English] by Samvel Karapetian;

2. The Historical Monuments of Jiliza [in Armenian and English] by Samvel Karapetian;

3. Becoming the Master of Your Own Homeland [in Armenian and English] by Samvel Karapetian;

4. Goghtan District [in English] by Hovhannes Hakhnazarian (sponsor: Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation);

5. The Inscriptions of Aleppo [in Armenian] by Raffi Kortoshian (sponsor: Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation);

6. Lori Region: A Map-Guide of Historical Monuments [in Armenian and English] by Samvel Karapetian (Yerevan, 2013);

7. Tavush Region: A Map-Guide of Historical Monuments [in Armenian and English] by Samvel Karapetian (Yerevan, 2013);

8. Vardzk no. 8, 9 & 10 [in Armenian].

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. Aristakes Tevkants [in Armenian];

2. Yeremia Tevkants [in Armenian];

3. Khojivank [in Armenian];

4. The Armenian Settlements of India [in Armenian];

5. Caucasian Albania Proper [in Armenian], etc.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The updated version of www.armenianarchitecture.am was completed, and the design of www.raa.am underwent certain changes. At present the elaboration of a library programme is underway.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

The images digitised during the year amounted to 59,544, with which the RAA database came to comprise a total of 351,057 images (291,513 as of late 2012).

FILMS

In 2013 the RAA produced a documentary on Gagkashen Church of Ani (Gagkashen Church), the capital of the Bagratid Kingdom (961 to 1045) of Armenia. Apart from this, English subtitles were prepared for all the Armenian-language RAA documentaries that are available on RAA Armenia YouTube Channel.

SARGIS DARCHINIAN’S PHOTO ARCHIVES

On 9 November 2013, with the support of Bishop Vazgen Mirzakhanian, Primate of the Armenian diocese of Georgia, the RAA received the rich photo archives of Sargis Darchinian of blessed memory (he had died on 2 October of the same year), a major expert in the history and cultural monuments, particularly residential and public buildings, of Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia.

EXHIBITIONS

On 18 April 2013, the RAA opened an exhibition exposing the present-day state of historical Armenian monuments in Western Armenia in the Museum of Modern Art, Yerevan, RA.

“ARMENOLOGICAL THURSDAYS”

From 28 February until 11 April 2013, every Thursday the Museum-Institute of Alexandre Tamanian, Yerevan, RA, hosted the RAA lectures on the cultural heritage of Western Armenia. They were accompanied with the showing of the RAA films presenting the state of Armenian architectural monuments in Georgia, Azerbaijan and Western Armenia (at present: Eastern Turkey).

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE

On 23 March 2013, Armenia’s State Commission Coordinating Events for the Genocide Centenary held an international conference (Armenian Genocide: Challenges on the Eve of the Centenary) in Yerevan to discusss various issues concerning the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. It was attended by a number of prominent foreign and Armenian researchers, including RAA President Samvel Karapetian.

PRESS CONFERENCES

In 2013 the members of the RAA participated in 7 press conferences (7 January, 18 March, 18 April, 27 June, 23 & 30 October, 20 December) during which they mainly spoke about the new publications of the foundation.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

On 25 March 2013, when the second largest city of the Republic of Armenia, Gyumri, celebrated Freedom of Speech Day, Asparez Club of Journalists conferred a Special Prize on Samvel Karapetian for his activities in the field of publicism.

In March 2013 the Council of the Armenian Films Revival Cinema Centre gave a prize for the documentary Jugha produced by Research on Armenian Architecture Foundation. It was nominated as a National Film for presenting the history of the old city of Jugha and the destruction of its renowned cemetery between 1998 and 2005 by the Azerbaijani authorities of the Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan.

In 2013 the RAA was granted a Special Diploma of Europa Nostra Organisation in the category of Dedicated Service with special appreciation of its heritage preservation and conservation efforts.

A NEW MINIBUS

In May 2013, with the support of the RAA USA, the foundation purchased a Ford Transit minibus of 2003, which is particularly indispensable for the research trips to Western Armenia.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2014 presents the historical monuments of Caucasian Albania Proper (Boon Aghvank).

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 480 monuments during the year.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In October 2012 a research trip was made to Western Armenia.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

Within the SOS Culture project of the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), triggered in 2012 for a 24-month period within the framework of the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) of the European Union, a number of research trips were made to Shirak, Lori and Tavush Regions, RA.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

From May until June 2012, research was conducted into the monuments of the Armenian settlements of Iran.

RESEARCH IN NORTH CAUCASIA

In September 2012 a two-week research trip was made to North Caucasia (North Ossetia, Stavropol and Daghestan).

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH AND GEORGIA

In 2012 several research trips were made to Artsakh and Georgia.

PUBLICATIONS

1. The State of Armenian Historical Monuments in Azerbaijan and Artsakh by Samvel Karapetian, a three-language (English, French & Russian) booklet prepared at the request of the RA Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Moscow, 2012);

2. Ani 1050 [in Armenian, Russian & English] by Samvel Karapetian;

3. Three Monasteries of Artaz [in Armenian] by Armen Hakhnazarian;

4. Sourb Nshan Sourb Nikoghayosi Church, Tbilisi [in Armenian, Russian & English] by Samvel Karapetian, the first volume of a series entitled Documents of Armenian Architecture (sponsors: Arthur & Lily Seredian, RAA USA);

5. Nakhijevan by Samvel Karapetian, an atlas in Armenian & English;

6. Printing-Houses throughout the Armenian Homeland, a large map commemorating the 500th anniversary of the first printed book in Armenian;

7. Vardzk no. 5, 6 & 7 [in Armenian].

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The construction of the updated version of the RAA website (www.raa.am) continued in 2012.

The RAA database of images was enriched with new retrieval criteria; besides, a programme was elaborated for finding images missing from the website www.armenianarchitecture.am.

THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELLING

In 2012 the RAA specialists created 3D reconstructions of a number of architectural buildings some specimens of which were published in a large-scale album entitled Ani 1050, being also used in an RAA documentary, Hovvi Church.

The 3D modelling of Ani’s Gagkashen Church is still in process: it will be presented in a film on this monument early in 2013.

FILMS

Four documentaries were produced in 2012: Ani, Hovvi Church, A Day in Kakhet and Moks (available on RAA Armenia YouTube Channel).

EXHIBITIONS

Between 22 and 27 February 2012, the Green Hall of the RA National Assembly hosted the RAA exhibition of Armenian monuments in Turkey and Azerbaijan.

On 2 March 2012, the foundation presented the fruits of its 2011 activities and its plans for 2012 at ART-EXPO 2012, which was visited by President of the Republic of Armenia Serzh Sargissian.

On 30 March 2012, the RAA publications were presented at an exhibition held in Home Depo Trade Centre, Yerevan, RA.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2013 presents the historical Armenian district of Artaz.

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with an annual agreement signed with the RA Ministry of Culture since 2010, the members of the foundation documented 470 monuments during the year.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

Between 27 July and 24 August 2011, a research trip was made to Western Armenia.

RESEARCH IN INDIA

Between 9 February and 2 March 2011, studies were carried out in the Armenian settlements of India.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

From 10 June until 10 July 2011, research was conducted into the monuments of the Armenian settlements of Iran.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Collected Memoirs [in Armenian];

2. Javakhk [in English] by Samvel Karapetian;

3. Vardzk no. 3 [in Armenian & English] & 4 [in Armenian].

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

1. The State of Armenian Historical Monuments in Azerbaijan and Artsakh [in Armenian, Russian & English): prepared at the request of the RA Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

2. Three Monasteries of Artaz [in Armenian];

3. Sourb Nshan Sourb Nikoghayosi Church, Tbilisi [in Armenian, Russian & English], the first volume of the three-language series entitled Documents of Armenian Architecture;

4. Nakhijevan, an atlas in Armenian & English, etc.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

The development of the updated version of the RAA website (www.raa.am) continued during the year.

FILMS

In 2011 the RAA Film Department produced two documentaries: Khoshab District and Another Genocide after the Genocide (available on RAA Armenia YouTube Channel).

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Within a programme of the RA Ministry of Defence, some members of the RAA delivered several lectures, aimed at promoting awareness of the Armenian Homeland, in different military units of the Armed Forces of the Republics of Armenia and Artsakh.

EXHIBITIONS

From 10 until 11 February 2011, the RAA participated in ART-EXPO 2011 held in the Painters’ House, Yerevan, RA, on the initiative of the RA Ministry of Culture.

Between 10 and 31 May 2011, H. Tumanian Museum of Yerevan hosted an RAA exhibition which had the following heading: Azerbaijan: Enemy of Civilisation.

PRESENTATIONS

On 22 April 2011, the National Library of Yerevan hosted the presentation of the RAA books published between 2009 and 2011.

On 13 October 2011, the presentation of the programme ARMENIACA and its website was held in Tumo Centre, Yerevan, RA.

DONATIONS

In 2011 the RAA library was enriched with 200 books, mostly on Armenian Studies, from the collection of the late Aram Ohanian on the initiative of his sons, Sasun and David Ohanian.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2012 commemorates the 1,050th anniversary of proclaiming Ani capital of Armenia.

DOCUMENTATION OF MONUMENTS

In accordance with agreement no. 89, signed between the RAA and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia on 26 March 2010, 450 monuments were documented during the year.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In August and October 2010, the RAA members made two research trips to Western Armenia.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

From 5 June until 6 July 2010, within a programme of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia to carry out studies of Armenian architectural heritage outside the borders of the country, the working team of the RAA implemented research in the Islamic Republic of Iran (New Jugha, Teheran, Tabriz, Arak, Charmahal, Peria, Kyazaz, Kyamara, Gharaghan, Gyapla and Burvari Districts). The RAA research team also worked in the cities of Shiraz and Arak. In Shiraz City and in 122 rural places (7 of them stripped of their Armenian inhabitants since the repatriation of 1946) situated in these districts, 3,138 monuments were documented.

On the whole, our research in Iran yielded 20,000 photos of monuments, ancient sites and gravestones.

RESEARCH IN SYRIA

Between 4 December 2010 and 22 January 2011, members of the RAA Raffi and Liana Kortoshian carried out studies in Syria (Kesab, Latakia, Damascus, Lakka, Tartus, etc.). The total number of photographs taken during this trip is 3,800.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

Late in June 2010, the restoration of the guest chamber of Dadivank Monastery began under the financial assistance of the Government of the Republic of Artsakh. By the end of the year, the first floor of its eastern wing and the walls of its second floor had already been completed. Now preparations are underway for restoring the vault of its second storey (according to the restoration project, the guest chamber is planned to be used as a priest house).

On 1 July 2010, the restoration project of another monastic building, formerly used as an assembly hall, was completed. Its restoration is planned to begin in 2011.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Travel Notes [in Armenian] by Archpriest Yeghishe Geghamiants;

2. Vardzk no. 1 [in Armenian] & 2 [in Armenian & English];

3. The Wonders of Artsakh [in Armenian & English] by Samvel Karapetian;

4. The Islamic Monuments of the Armenian Architecture of Artsakh [in Armenian & English] by Samvel Karapetian.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

In 2010 a programme of Diary was developed by the RAA specialists who are now working out a system of retrieval to be enriched with the entries of the Diary.

During the year 1,884 toponyms, 5,737 monuments, and 13,625 quotations were added to the RAA database (www.armenianarchitecture.am).

IMAGE DIGITISATION

In 2010 34,775 images were digitised (on 68 DVDs), with which the total number of images in the RAA digital archives reached 198,218 on 3,320 CD/DVDs.

A GIFT TO H. TUMANIAN MUSEUM

Meeting the request of the curator of H. Tumanian Museum, in 2010 the RAA digitised 260 glass negatives of photographs taken by H. Tumanian himself between 1901 and 1923.

FILMS

In 2010 the RAA Film Department released the first film (Aghbak District) of the documentary series on the districts of Western Armenia. A video material, How to Decipher Armenian Cryptograms (director: T. Karapetian; music by Aydin Davudi) produced late in November 2010 explains the ways of the decipherment of encoded Armenian writings.

During a film festival held in St. Petersburg in December, Tiran Karapetian participated in a forum of the directors of the prize-winner films of the preceding years.

In 2010 Narek Harutiunian, Head of Narekatsy Art Centre, presented the department with a teleobjective.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

During the year, the members of the foundation delivered lectures in different military units of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia within a programme of the RA Ministry of Defence aimed at the enhancement of military and patriotic education. The talks were accompanied with the showing of the RAA films.

On 24 April 2010, S. Karapetian made a report on the condition of monuments in Western Armenia in the House of Officer, Stepanakert, Republic of Artsakh.

On 4 May 2010, S. Karapetian delivered a lecture on the condition of Armenian cultural monuments in the countries neighbouring the Republic of Armenia in Tsankarev Dom, Lyublyana, the cultural and congress centre of Slovenia.

EXHIBITIONS

In 2010, meeting the request of the Deputy Minister of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, the RAA provided images of Armenia for Shanghay Expo 2010 held in Shanghai City, China, between May and October 2010.

On 13 February 2010, the RAA presented the results of the 2009 monitoring of the most endangered monuments of the Republic of Armenia during EXPO 2010 held in the House of Artists, Yerevan, RA.

Between 12 and 19 April 2010, an exhibition was held in Aleppo and Latakia, Syria, to expose the cultural genocide ongoing in Western Armenia. It was attended by the students of Krtasirats and Cilicia Colleges as well as by those of the AGBU college, the College of Armenian Studies, Karen-Yeppe National Seminary and Petel Evangelical Seminary.

Between 9 and 11 July 2010, the RAA opened an exhibition commemorating the 770th anniversary of the consecration of Gandzasar Monastery (founded in 1216, consecrated in 1240) in Stepanakert and Gandzasar, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

Late in July 2010, an exhibition of the Patriarchal residences of the Catholicosate of Caucasian Albania (Aghvank) opened in Gandzasar Monastery, Martakert District, Republic of Artsakh.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

On 12 April 2010, Minister of Defence of the Republic of Armenia S. Ohanian conferred the Medal of Drastamat Kanayan on S. Karapetian for his devoted research into Armenian monuments.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2011 presents Sourb Khach (Holy Cross) Church of Aghtamar Island in Lake Van, Western Armenia.

OBITUARY

On 19 February 2009, Founding Director of the RAA, Dr. Armen Hakhnazarian, departed this life in Aachen, Germany.

On 1 March his memory was honoured at a ceremony held in Komitas House of Chamber Music, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia.

On 8 March Catholicos of All Armenians His Holiness Garegin II conducted a service in Echmiatzin Cathedral in memory of Armen Hakhnazarian.

On 17 April his cinerary urn was buried in the cemetery of Artashavan Village, Aragatzotn Region, Republic of Armenia, and the following day a requiem service was held in Saghmosavank Monastery in his memory.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

In 2009, within a programme of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia, the RAA carried out monitoring of the mostly endangered monuments of the country: the research team of the organisation made a number of trips to various ancient sites and monuments in different regions of the republic.

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH

In August 2009 the RAA members made a two-week trip to Artsakh.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

Between 22 October and 5 November 2009, S. Karapetian visited Iran at the invitation of Husk Centre and returned with over 8,000 photographs taken in Teheran, Tabriz, New Jugha, and Arak District. This trip proved a very good opportunity to verify the scope of further studies in the territory of Iran.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

In 2009 the monastic complex of Dadivank did not see resumption of construction activities, as it was found inexpedient to continue work on a small scale: it was necessary to wait for the investment promised by the Government of the Republic of Artsakh.

According to a previous arrangement between the late Armen Hakhnazarian and Archbishop Pargev Martirossian, Primate of Artsakh Diocese, specialists went on with the elaboration of restoration projects for the other parts of the monastic complex. During the year the guest chamber of Dadivank was measured, and a project was worked out for its restoration and future use as a priest house at the request of the Tourism Department of the Government of the Republic of Artsakh (it was later approved by the same department). The ruins inside and around the guest chamber were removed.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN CHAREKTAR MONASTERY

The excavations carried out in Charektar Monastery, Martakert District, Republic of Artsakh, at the request of the Tourism Department of the Government of the country, unclosed more than 10 inscribed cross-stones, tombstones, and other fragments. The restoration project (by architect Samvel Ayvazian) of the monument won the approval of the same department.

PUBLICATIONS

1. The Bridges of Artsakh [in Armenian, Russian & English] by Samvel Karapetian (published with the financial support of the Tourism Department of the Government of the Republic of Artsakh);

2. Armenia [in Armenian, Russian & English] by Samvel Karapetian (sponsor: ArmRusGasProm CSC).

Within its efforts to raise awareness of Historical Armenia, at the end of 2009, the RAA prepared and published 3 posters presenting Karin, Hayots Dzor and Moks Districts of Armenia Maior.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

In 2009 the archives of the RAA were enriched with 26,936 images written on 116 CDs (beginning with no. 3220, we started using DVDs), with which the total number of images digitised amounted to 163,443 on 3,252 CDs and DVDs.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

In 2009 the specialists of the RAA completed the development of a database for internal use which allows entry and retrieval of base maps.

The image database of the organisation was updated.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered talks (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia. Apart from this, weekly lectures (from January until March) were given in the Institute of Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia.

CONFERENCES

From 21 until 22 April 2009, some members of the RAA participated in the pan-Armenian conference The 21st century of Armenian Architecture (organised on the initiative of the Ministry of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia).

DONATIONS

In 2009 the RAA received the following donations:

1. A storage (Drobo 8 TRB) from Narek Harutiunian, Head of Narekatsy Art Centre;

2. Another storage (VEB USB 4 TRB) from Vazgen Khachikian, Head of the Social Security Service of the Republic of Armenia;

3. A laptop (HP Pavilion Entertainment PC) from Husk Centre, Iran.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

On 29 January 2009, on the initiative of David Sargissian, Curator of the National Library of Armenia, the Medal of Hakob Meghapart was conferred on Dr. Armen Hakhnazarian less than a month before his untimely death.

In 2009 the psychological documentary Silence was awarded the Diploma of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Armenia at the International Youth Film Festival Yes Em (It is Me). In the same year, it also won a Diploma for a Most Promising Beginning at the Open Student Film Festival Beginning held in St. Petersburg, RF.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2010 presents the bridges of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In 2008 two research trips were made to Western Armenia, one of them between 13 June and 10 July, and the other from 13 August until 9 September. During these trips, studies were carried out in Bash-Shoragyal, Nakhichevan (in the region of Kars), Kaghzvan, Shatakh, Moks, Khizan, Baghesh, Karjkan, Khoshab, Kogh, Olti, Tortum, and many other historical Armenian districts.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH

From 9 until 16 April, and from 18 until 22 October 2008, studies were conducted in Artsakh.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

The restoration of the monastic complex resumed in May 2008 parallel with the excavations and restoration of the church of St. Dad.

These excavations, carried out from 28 May until 5 June under archaeologist Gagik Sargissian’s supervision, unclosed a funerary cell (dimensions according to its plan: 107 x 72 cm; height: 130 cm) opposite the pedestal of a rectangular stone stele, in front of the apse of the church. The cell (probably, that of St. Dad), which is built of undressed stone without mortar, is covered with two large blocks of stone, its floor 260 cm lower than the base of the stele. Other archaeological finds unearthed in the cell include the remnants of a human body buried in a sitting position (samples of these bones have been sent to St. Petersburg, London, and New York for examination); broken pieces of a wooden chair, the stone head of a staff, a tiny piece of tile, and a glass fragment (2 cm). For the preservation and demonstration of the funerary cell, a small structure was erected over it according to a previously worked out project (its construction remained incomplete).

During the year the floor of St. Dad Church was finally slabbed; its sanctuary and the part in front of it were restored.

The roof of the monastic portico was completely restored; besides, restoration was also completed in the smaller basilica of Dadivank and its narthex, in both of which the roofs and floors were laid with slabs.

In the course of restoration activities, wooden doors were made for St. Dad Church, the basilicas, and portico.

In 2009 we are planning to do the following:

1. To work in the interior of the vestries of St. Dad Church, to establish a system of hydraulic insulation behind its northern wall, and complete the work connected with the funerary cell;

2. To carry out jointing in the basilica, its narthex, and among their covering slabs; to prepare a holy altar for the sanctuary of the basilica;

3. To correct the wrong stonework of the easternmost arch of the portico;

4. To attach bars on the windows and install the aforementioned wooden doors.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Akhaltskha [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian (sponsors: Calouste Gulbenkian and Tufenkian Foundations).

IMAGE DIGITISATION

In 2008 26,507 images were digitised and written on 277 CDs, with which the RAA digital archives came to total 136,507 images on 3,136 CDs.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered lectures (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia. Apart from this, weekly talks were given in the History Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia.

EXHIBITIONS

From 21 until 27 July 2008, within the Week of Hamshen organised in Yerevan, RA, the RAA held an exhibition of this district in Narekatsy Art Centre.

CONFERENCES AND OTHER EVENTS

On 10 to 11 April 2008, some members of the RAA took part in the conference Western Armenia Yesterday and Today held in Stepanakert, Republic of Artsakh.

Between 2 and 6 December, the RAA participated in the pan-Armenian cultural festival One Nation, One Culture.

On 14 December 2008, the presentation of two books, Javakhk and Akhaltskha, was held in Komitas House of Chamber Music, Yerevan, RA.

FILMS

In January and September, two of the members of the RAA Film Department visited Tbilisi, Georgia, to complete work on the psychological documentary Silence. Its presentation was held in Narekatsy Art Centre, Yerevan, RA, on 27 December 2008.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

On 10 June 2008, on the initiative of Tigran Torossian, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, the RAA and Dr. A. Hakhnazarian were awarded respectively the Diploma and Order of Honour of the National Assembly for the extensive research in the territory of Historical Armenia, and exceptional services for the preservation of Armenian identity. These awards also commemorated the 30th anniversary of the foundation of the organisation in Germany, and the 10th anniversary of its formal establishment in Armenia.

At the Third Pan-Armenian Contest of Electronic Content, held in the House of Moscow on 27 December 2008, the RAA was awarded the First Prize for the website www.armenianarchitecture.am. The organisation also won a prize in the nomination of Electronic Culture for the creation of the same website.

In 2008 S. Karapetian received a Diploma from the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia for his outstanding contribution to the study and restoration of historical Armenian monuments and sites.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2009 presents reliefs from the architecture of Artsakh.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

During our one-month trip to Western Armenia, made under the patronage of Calouste Gulbenkian Fund, studies were conducted in the districts of Artahan, Cheldr, Kars, Russian Basen, Kaghzvan, Surmalu, Bagrevand, Andab, Manazkert, Khlat, Artzke, Arjesh, Mush, and Bulanekh.

During the year two more trips were made to Western Armenia, one of them together with the Primates of Lori and Shirak Dioceses of the Armenian Church, Bishops Sepuh and Michael. The other trip became possible through the financial assistance of Hayk Film Studio.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

During the year, we continued our documentation activities (in process since 2006) in the regions of Gegharkunik (Ddmashen, Jil), Kotayk (Buzhakan, Solak, Bjni), Vayots Dzor (Gndevank, Arates, Yeghegis, Noravank), and Siunik (Aghitu, Vorotnavank, Tatev).

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF GEORGIA

In June and July 2007, two trips were made to Georgia (sponsor: Calouste Gulbenkian Fund) with an overall duration of three weeks. During this period, research was implemented into the Armenian historical monuments of the districts of Akhaltskha, Tzalka, Tetri-Tzegharo, Bolnis, Dmanis, Marneul, Khashur, Kareli, Gori, Kaspi, and Metskhet. We also worked in Tbilisi, the capital of the country, and returned with over 4,400 photos and 41 measurements.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

During the year, restoration projects were worked out for St. Dad Church, the smaller basilica of the monastic complex, its narthex, and portico (they were approved by the Monuments Preservation Department of the Republic of Artsakh).

The excavations carried out in the bema of St. Dad Church unearthed a skeleton (most probably, that of St. Dad), some wooden fragments of a throne, the surviving part of a wall, and some structure fragments of varying dimensions.

On 21 July the consecration of St. Dad’s remains was held, with the Primate of Artsakh Diocese, Archbishop Pargev, officiating at the ceremony (it was attended by the newly-elected president of the Republic of Artsakh, many church dignitaries, and high-ranking statesmen).

Until December the pilasters of the church and the upper parts of its walls were restored, and part of its prayer hall was paved.

Parallel with this work, the loosened mortar of the roofs of the smaller basilica, its narthex, and portico was removed together with the soil accumulated there. The roof of the basilica was re-laid with newly-hewn covering slabs of tuff; besides, the eastern and western pediments of the church were restored, and its floor was paved with basalt.

The narthex of the smaller basilica was restored with a gable roof which was covered with newly-hewn slabs of tuff. Its floor was paved with basalt, and its northern portal was restored.

The vault of the portico was re-laid with reinforced concrete, and a drainage ditch was dug at the juncture of the portico and basilica.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Northern Artsakh [in English] by Samvel Karapetian;

2. My Memoirs [in Armenian] by Sirak Sarhadian;

3. Ermenice Ögrenim Kitabi by Raffi Kortoshian (a Turkish-Armenian manual for self-tuition).

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

The Microtoponyms of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book includes about 6,000 microtoponyms, i.e., names of hills, mountains, rivers, tributaries, springs, waterfalls, fields, and even lonely trees, collected throughout the territory of Artsakh (field work and preparation of the volume completed through an ANSEF grant awarded in 2002).

The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian]

The work presents the detailed history of about 650 Armenian churches (both Apostolic and Catholic) situated in the territory of Georgia. Written on the basis of more than 4,000 published and unpublished sources, mainly found in the Armenian and Georgian archives, it includes over 1,000 photos as well as hundreds of archive and modern measurements.

The Historical Monuments of Artaz [in Armenian]

The book deals with the Armenian monuments of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

Nakhichevan [in Armenian]

An ANSEF grant awarded for an RAA project entitled Nakhichevan in December 2003 enabled us to complete a book offering a detailed history of Nakhichevan, which has been annexed to Azerbaijan since 1921. Totally stripped of its Armenian population since 1988, this region has continually suffered cultural genocide, in the aftermath of which, a great number of Armenian monuments and sites, including the renowned cemetery of Old Jugha with thousands of cross-stones, have been reduced to ruins, and even totally levelled to the ground.

Based on a vast amount of library and archive data collected throughout 20 years of investigation, the book is enriched with more than 1,000 photos, numerous maps, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

A Complete List of Monuments in Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The purpose of this work is to document the cultural monuments of Western Armenia, forming the bulk of the heritage of Historical Armenia, indicating their number, location and condition in every village and town.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The book includes all the lapidary inscriptions offered by different topographers who worked in Western Armenia until 1915. It also comprises tracings of inscriptions collected during the research and documentation activities of the RAA.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book contains about 3,600 Armenian lapidary inscriptions collected in Artsakh throughout many decades of field work.

A Chronological List of Aghvank Catholicoses and Primates of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The work treats the history of the Catholicosate of Aghvank (Caucasian Albania) from the 4th century A.D. until 1810. It also dwells on the primates of Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church from 1810 to the present times.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

In 2007 over 18,000 images were digitised, with which the RAA database came to total 108,000 images.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

www.armenianarchitecture.am

In 2007 the testing of the database continued, with some corrections made to it, and translation of the Armenian data into English.

The entries made during the year constitute:

1. 178 monuments;

2. 40 toponyms;

3. 172 images;

4. 592 citations regarding both places and monuments;

5. 53 inscriptions.

As of 31 December 2007, the database comprised the following data:

1. 5,011 monuments;

2. 1,668 toponyms;

3. 10,560 images;

4. 11,588 citations regarding both places and monuments;

5. 2,374 inscriptions;

6. 16,175 monuments described through AAT keywords.

The second, updated version of the database will be available online in January 2008.

www.raa.am

The site presents the activities of the organisation, its publications, exhibitions, articles, etc.

In 2007 the specialists of the RAA started developing a second version of this site.

AN IMAGE DATABASE FOR INTERNAL USE

In 2007 81,559 images were added to the database with at least a single describing feature, with which the total number of images came to 110,144.

The total number of images registered with at least a single describing feature is 107,244.

A MAP DATABASE FOR INTERNAL USE

At present the specialists of the RAA are developing a new database of maps which will also reflect the geographical coordinates of monuments fixed during our research trips.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered lectures (accompanied with slide presentation) on the cultural heritage of Historical Armenia. Weekly talks were also given in Narekatsy Art Centre in Yerevan, RA, and in the History Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia.

The documentary Jugha was shown in a number of educational institutions in Yerevan and different regions of the Republic of Armenia.

CONFERENCES

On 3 September 2007, Samvel Karapetian participated in an international conference on Studies of Caucasian Albania during which he made a report on the Armenian lapidary inscriptions of Caucasian Albania Proper (Boon Aghvank).

On 27 November he took part in another international conference (From Remembrance to Commemoration) with a report on the past and present state of the historical monuments of Western Armenia.

FILMS

In 2007 the Film Department of the RAA worked on the documentary Culture Beyond Law presenting the conditions of historical Armenian monuments in Georgia.

Narek Harutiunian, Head of Narekatsy Art Centre, supplied the department with a new computer and other necessary devices.

In 2007 Tiran Karapetian received the Prize of the President of the Republic of Armenia for the documentary Jugha, which also won the First Prize in the nomination of Documentary Films at the International Youth Film Festival Yes Em (It is Me).

PRIZES AND AWARDS

In 2007 S. Karapetian was awarded the Prize of the President of the Republic of Armenia for the following volumes: The Armenian Collection of the Caucasian Museum, The Armenians in Kakhet and Javakhk.

VAN

In 2007 the RAA purchased a Ford Transit van thanks to the financial contribution of the late Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, A. Margarian.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2008 presents the region of Akhaltskha.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

During our two research trips to Western Armenia, each of which lasted for almost a month, studies were carried out in the districts of Shatakh, Moks, Taron, Baghesh, Sasun, Aghbak, Khoshab, Berkri, Kars, Basen, Artahan, and Khotorjur. These trips became possible through the financial assistance of Calouste Gulbenkian Fund.

In the summer of 2006, one of the RAA members, Raffi Kortoshian, made another trip to Western Armenia under the sponsorship of Hayk Film Studio.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH

In November 2006 a ten-day research trip was made to Artsakh during which studies were conducted in the westernmost villages of Hadrut District: Arpagetik, Khetzaberd, Arevshat, and Hin Tagher. This field work became especially important as a number of monuments were photographed and measured for the first time.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

During the year the pavement of the bema of the main domed church (Katoghike) of the complex, underway since 2005, was completed.

The restoration of the monastic belfry, with its pyramid-shaped spire and pediments, was accomplished: its interior was covered with basalt slabs, and its front steps were restored.

The roof of the small domed church of the monastery was finally tiled, with its floor smoothed away and covered with cement and sand. A wooden door was set at its entrance.

The rotunda of the zhamatun (vestibule) was covered with glass roofing, and a wooden door was installed at its southern entrance. The earth accumulated in the north of the zhamatun was removed; the retaining wall of that part was fortified and erected to a height of 80 cm for the prevention of water permeation.

The floor of the portico was covered with basalt slabs.

The earth accumulated for centuries inside the church of St. Dad and covering it up to the bema was moved away.

The portico, basilica and narthex of the monastery were measured.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN THE CHURCH OF METZ PARNI VILLAGE

In 2006 restoration activities began in the church of Metz Parni Village, Lori Region, RA: its roof was repaired, and a new belfry and ramparts were built for the church (project by Samvel Ayvazian).

The preparation of the project and restoration of the monument were carried out through the financial support of Robert Okhanian from Metz Parni, the head of Spitak-2 Construction Company.

FURTHER RESTORATION ACTIVITIES

In 2006, meeting a request from the Holy See of Echmiatzin, the specialists of the RAA worked out a restoration project for the uni-nave basilica of Hovhanavank Monastery and its burial chamber. It was approved by Holy Echmiatzin’s Scientific Council on Construction Activities and by the Scientific and Methodological Council of the Monuments Preservation Agency of the Republic of Armenia.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Javakhk [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian;

2. Jugha [in English], an illustrated booklet by Armen Hakhnazarian.

In 2006 the RAA also published a large map of the Republic of Artsakh prepared at the request of the Department of Migration, Refugees and Resettlement attached to the Government of the Republic of Artsakh (sponsor: Artsakh Foundation, Beirut, Lebanon).

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

The Microtoponyms of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book includes about 6,000 microtoponyms, i.e., names of hills, mountains, rivers, tributaries, springs, waterfalls, fields, and even lonely trees, collected throughout the territory of Artsakh (field work and preparation of the volume completed through an ANSEF grant awarded in 2002).

The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian]

The work presents the detailed history of about 650 Armenian churches (both Apostolic and Catholic) situated in the territory of Georgia. Written on the basis of more than 4,000 published and unpublished sources, mainly found in the Armenian and Georgian archives, it includes over 1,000 photos as well as hundreds of archive and modern measurements.

The Historical Monuments of Artaz [in Armenian]

The book deals with the Armenian monuments of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

Nakhichevan [in Armenian]

An ANSEF grant awarded for an RAA project entitled Nakhichevan in December 2003 enabled us to complete a book offering a detailed history of Nakhichevan, which has been annexed to Azerbaijan since 1921. Totally stripped of its Armenian population since 1988, this region has continually suffered cultural genocide, in the aftermath of which, a great number of Armenian monuments and sites, including the renowned cemetery of Old Jugha with thousands of cross-stones, have been reduced to ruins, and even totally levelled to the ground.

Based on a vast amount of library and archive data collected throughout 20 years of investigation, the book is enriched with more than 1,000 photos, numerous maps, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

A Complete List of Monuments in Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The purpose of this work is to document the cultural monuments of Western Armenia, forming the bulk of the heritage of Historical Armenia, indicating their number, location and condition in every village and town.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The book includes all the lapidary inscriptions offered by different topographers who worked in Western Armenia until 1915. It also comprises tracings of inscriptions collected during the research and documentation activities of the RAA.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book contains about 3,600 Armenian lapidary inscriptions collected in Artsakh throughout many decades of field work.

A Chronological List of Aghvank Catholicoses and Primates of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The work treats the history of the Catholicosate of Aghvank (Caucasian Albania) from the 4th century A.D. until 1810. It also dwells on the primates of Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church from 1810 to the present times.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

In 2006 18,339 images were digitised and double-copied on CDs, with which the RAA database came to total 89,873 images on 2,617 CDs.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

www.armenianarchitecture.am

In 2006 the database of historical Armenian monuments was enriched with a “tree” of the Art and Architecture Thesaurus (AAT) with 4,225 key words.

In 2006 the database was enriched with:

1. 1,152 monuments;

2. 122 toponyms;

3. 1,603 images;

4. 3,282 citations regarding both places and monuments;

5. 614 inscriptions;

6. 16,175 monuments described through AAT keywords.

As of 31 December 2006, the database contained the following entries:

1. 4,833 monuments;

2. 1,628 toponyms;

3. 10,388 images;

4. 10,996 citations regarding both places and monuments;

5. 2,321 inscriptions;

6. 16,175 monuments described through AAT keywords.

At present the database is being updated.

AN IMAGE DATABASE FOR INTERNAL USE

In 2006 25,685 images were added to the database with at least a single describing feature.

The images of the database total 92,468.

The total number of images documented with at least a single describing feature is 83,865.

FILMS

In 2006 benefactors Armen Minassian, Zhirayr Markossian representing Aznavour For Armenia Foundation, and Narek Harutiunian of Narekatsy Art Centre supplied the Film Department of the RAA with some equipment of primary importance. Through the financial assistance of the RAA USA, the department produced a documentary on Jugha Cemetery (Jugha, director: Tiran Karapetian). The premiere of the film was held in Narekatsy Art Centre, Yerevan, RA, late in April. In May the English version of the film was shown in the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia for some Parliamentarians from the European Council who later arranged its showing in Strasbourg, France. On 15 December 2006, a year after the annihilation of Jugha Cemetery, the film was also shown in the Armenian Writers’ Union. During the year, it was broadcast on different Armenian TV channels.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered lectures (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia. Weekly talks were also given in Narekatsy Art Centre in Yerevan, RA; besides, during the year Yerkir Media TV broadcast Samvel Karapetian’s educational programme Awareness for the sake of Preservation.

EXHIBITIONS

In 2006, under the auspices of Foreign Minister of the Republic of Armenia Vardan Oskanian, the RAA prepared an exhibition of Nakhichevan, a historical Armenian region annexed to Azerbaijan since 1921. It was held in the city municipality of Strasbourg, France, and travelled to many other cities in Europe in 2007.

Early in December 2006, an exhibition of Western Armenia was held in the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2007 presents the results of the restoration carried out in Dadivank Monastery.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

During our trip to Western Armenia that lasted from July to August 2005, studies were implemented in Gyavash, Arjak, Khoshab, and Timar Districts, Van Province. The RAA team also worked in Khut, Brnashen, Basen, and other districts, Sasun Province.

From August until September 2005, Giorgio Bawai, one of the RAA’s European partners, conducted research in the historical Armenian province of Tayk together with his wife.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH

Late in March 2005, studies were carried out in Khatravank Monastery situated west of Khunkutala Village, Martakert District.

RESEARCH IN NAKHICHEVAN

In the summer of 2005, under the sponsorship of the RAA, Scottish researcher Stephen Sim made a trip to Nakhichevan to acquire information regarding the local Armenian monuments. Although he failed to complete his work (the Azeri authorities deported him from the country), he managed to visit a number of sites and monuments only to find out that they had been totally annihilated.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

During the year the restoration of the main domed church of the complex (Katoghike) was accomplished (sponsor: Edil Hovnanian, USA).

From August 2004 until 2005, the restoration of the zhamatun (vestibule) of Dadivank was carried out under the patronage of Edik Abrahamian from Teheran, Iran.

The year 2005 also marked the beginning and completion of the restoration of the belfry of the monastery through financial means donated by Margrit Hakhnazarian.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN ST. SARGIS MONASTERY OF USHI

The monastic complex of St. Sargis (5th to 18th centuries) is located half a kilometre west of Ushi Village, Aragatzotn Region, RA, 5 km north of Ashtarak Town, the capital of the region, at an altitude of 1,410 metres above sea level.

It occupies an area of 45 x 54 metres and consists of the following buildings: St. Sargis Chapel, Sourb Astvatzatzin (Holy Virgin) Church, a narthex, a belfry, a refectory, some cells, a vaulted guest chamber, utility rooms, and habitable ones, all of them surrounded by ramparts fortified by double-storied circular towers at the corners.

One of the centres of religious education in Armenia, St. Sargis Monastery was reduced to ruins by the earthquakes of 1679 and 1827.

The only surviving structure of the complex, St. Sargis Chapel, is in emergency condition although it bears some traces of repairs. It represents a single-nave vaulted building (exterior dimensions: 5.8 x 8 metres) of finely-finished basalt and a gable roof.

The foundation of the chapel is traditionally associated with Commander Sargis, the prince of Cappadocia (361 to 363), who was banished by Emperor Julian and found haven in Armenian King Arshak’s court. Later moving to Persia, he served in King Shapuh’s army, but was soon beheaded on the latter’s order for preaching Christianity and was buried in the village town of Namyan, Mazandaran Province. In the first decade of the 5th century, a delegation led by St. Mesrop moved St. Sargis’ remains to Armenia and interred them on an elevation not far from Ushi Village.

The restoration of St. Sargis Chapel began in the spring of 2004 and was completed in the spring of 2005.

FURTHER RESTORATION ACTIVITIES

In 2005 the Scientific Council of the Monuments Preservation Agency of the Republic of Armenia approved the restoration project of Hovhanavank Monastery, Aragatzotn Region, RA, and that of a church located in Metz Parni Village, Lori Region, RA.

PUBLICATIONS

In 2005 the RAA published an illustrated map (Beirut: Photogravure Zaven & Fils) in commemoration of the 1,600th anniversary of the creation of the Armenian alphabet.

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

Javakhk [in Armenian]

The book treats the history and cultural heritage of Javakhk with a special emphasis on the lapidary inscriptions of the region. It is enriched with numerous maps, photos, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

The Microtoponyms of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book includes about 6,000 microtoponyms, i.e., names of hills, mountains, rivers, tributaries, springs, waterfalls, fields, and even lonely trees, collected throughout the territory of Artsakh (field work and preparation of the volume completed through an ANSEF grant awarded in 2002).

The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian]

The work presents the detailed history of about 650 Armenian churches (both Apostolic and Catholic) situated in the territory of Georgia. Written on the basis of more than 4,000 published and unpublished sources, mainly found in the Armenian and Georgian archives, it includes over 1,000 photos as well as hundreds of archive and modern measurements.

The Historical Monuments of Artaz [in Armenian]

The book deals with the Armenian monuments of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

Nakhichevan [in Armenian]

An ANSEF grant awarded for an RAA project entitled Nakhichevan in December 2003 enabled us to complete a book offering a detailed history of Nakhichevan, which has been annexed to Azerbaijan since 1921. Totally stripped of its Armenian population since 1988, this region has continually suffered cultural genocide, in the aftermath of which, a great number of Armenian monuments and sites, including the renowned cemetery of Old Jugha with thousands of cross-stones, have been reduced to ruins, and even totally levelled to the ground.

Based on a vast amount of library and archive data collected throughout 20 years of investigation, the book is enriched with more than 1,000 photos, numerous maps, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

A Complete List of Monuments in Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The purpose of this work is to document the cultural monuments of Western Armenia, forming the bulk of the heritage of Historical Armenia, indicating their number, location and condition in every village and town.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The book includes all the lapidary inscriptions offered by different topographers who worked in Western Armenia until 1915. It also comprises tracings of inscriptions collected during the research and documentation activities of the RAA.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book contains about 3,600 Armenian lapidary inscriptions collected in Artsakh throughout many decades of field work.

A Chronological List of Aghvank Catholicoses and Primates of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The work treats the history of the Catholicosate of Aghvank (Caucasian Albania) from the 4th century A.D. until 1810. It also dwells on the primates of Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church from 1810 to the present times.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

In 2005 19,434 images were digitised and double-copied on CDs, with which the RAA database came to total 71,534 images on 2,275 CDs.

WEBSITES AND PROGRAMMING

www.armenianarchitecture.am

In 2004 the specialists of the RAA worked out and developed an online database of historical Armenian monuments which enables users to carry out a multilateral search of historical Armenian places and monuments documented in a tree of hierarchy. Parallel with its testing in 2005, the database was enriched with:

1. 3,681 monuments;

2. 1,506 toponyms;

3. 8,725 images;

4. 7,714 citations regarding both places and monuments;

5. 1,707 inscriptions.

www.raa.am

The website presents the activities of the organisation, its publications, exhibitions, articles, etc.

AN IMAGE DATABASE FOR INTERNAL USE

In 2005 Windows Application Programme was worked out for the facilitation of image entry and description in an internal database which allows the RAA members to fill in many lines simultaneously, searching for, and filtering (finding), the necessary images. It shows the exact location of the images on CDs, making it possible to search monuments according to their names, type, the toponym of the place where they are situated, etc.

In 2005 58,000 images were added to the database with at least a single describing feature.

FILMS

Despite the shortage of technical means, in 2005 the RAA embarked on film production. The presentation of its first two documentaries, Varag’s Mr. Petros and Hambardzum Yeramian, was held in Narekatsy Art Centre, Yerevan, RA, earning the approval of both the audience and the local press.

The members of the RAA USA purchased a high-quality digital video camera for the Film Department of the organisation.

CONFERENCES

In 2005 the members of the RAA participated in a number of conferences, one of which was dedicated to the 1,600th anniversary of the creation of the Armenian alphabet, and another to the problems of Nakhichevan.

At a session of the Red Cross Organisation, one of the RAA members presented the activities of the organisation and the condition of Armenian monuments in the countries adjacent to the Republic of Armenia.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered talks (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia. Weekly lectures were also given in Narekatsy Art Centre in Yerevan, RA; besides, during the year Yerkir Media TV broadcast Samvel Karapetian’s educational programme Awareness for the sake of Preservation.

EXHIBITIONS

In April 2005 an exhibition exposing the destruction of Armenian architectural monuments in Western Armenia was held in the RA National Gallery and in Yerevan Research Institute and Repository of Manuscripts after M. Mashtots. Afterwards it travelled to a number of American and European cities, including Washington D.C., Los Angeles, London, Köln, Aleppo, Isfahan (New Jugha), Paris, Cannes, Nice and Marseilles.

CALENDAR

The RAA published two illustrated calendars for 2006: one of them presents Hamshen District and the other Javakhk.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

During our trip to Western Armenia that lasted from July to August 2004, research was implemented in Van-Tosp, Hayots Dzor and Timar Districts of Van Region.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH

Between March and April 2004, studies were carried out in Martakert District, where the following sites and monuments were measured and photographed: Jraberd, Kaghakateghi, the monasteries of Inne Masants, Yeghish Arakyal (Yeghishe the Apostle), Yerits Mankants, etc.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

During the year the restoration of the exterior of the main domed church of the monastery (Katoghike) continued; besides, its underdome square and gable roof were stoned, and its floor was flagged, all this work being accomplished in December. The church apse and its interior decoration are planned to be completed in 2005 (sponsor of all this work: Edil Hovnanian from the USA), after which its consecration will be held.

The zhamatun (vestibule) of Dadivank Complex represents a rare architectural building. Its restoration began in August 2004, after the approval of its project, worked out by architect Samvel Ayvazian, by the Scientific Council of the Monuments Preservation Agency of the Republic of Armenia. The work (sponsor: Edik Abrahamian from Teheran, Iran) is planned to be completed in 2005.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN ST. SARGIS MONASTERY OF USHI

The monastic complex of St. Sargis (5th to 18th centuries) is located half a kilometre west of Ushi Village, Aragatzotn Region, RA, 5 km north of Ashtarak Town, the capital of the region, at an altitude of 1,410 metres above sea level.

It occupies an area of 45 x 54 metres and consists of the following buildings: St. Sargis Chapel, Sourb Astvatzatzin (Holy Virgin) Church, a narthex, a belfry, a refectory, some cells, a vaulted guest chamber, utility rooms, and habitable ones, all of them surrounded by ramparts fortified by double-storied circular towers at the corners.

One of the centres of religious education in Armenia, St. Sargis Monastery was reduced to ruins by the earthquakes of 1679 and 1827.

The only surviving structure of the complex, St. Sargis Chapel, is in emergency condition although it bears some traces of repairs. It represents a single-nave vaulted building (exterior dimensions: 5.8 x 8 metres) of finely-finished basalt and a gable roof.

The foundation of the chapel is traditionally associated with Commander Sargis, the prince of Cappadocia (361 to 363), who was banished by Emperor Julian and found haven in Armenian King Arshak’s court. Later moving to Persia, he served in King Shapuh’s army, but was soon beheaded on the latter’s order for preaching Christianity and was buried in the village town of Namyan, Mazandaran Province. In the first decade of the 5th century, a delegation led by St. Mesrop moved St. Sargis’ remains to Armenia and interred them on an elevation not far from Ushi Village.

The restoration of St. Sargis Chapel began in the spring of 2004 and is planned to be completed in March 2005.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Northern Artsakh [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian (Beirut: Photogravure Zaven & Fils);

2. The Armenian Collection of the Caucasian Museum [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian (Beirut: Photogravure Zaven & Fils; sponsors: Hayk and Sose Vardapetian);

3. The Armenians in Kakhet [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian (Beirut: Photogravure Zaven & Fils; sponsor: Archbishop Sepuh Sargissian).

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

Javakhk [in Armenian]

The book treats the history and cultural heritage of Javakhk with a special emphasis on the lapidary inscriptions of the region. It is enriched with numerous maps, photos, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

The Microtoponyms of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book includes about 6,000 microtoponyms, i.e., names of hills, mountains, rivers, tributaries, springs, waterfalls, fields, and even lonely trees, collected throughout the territory of Artsakh (field work and preparation of the volume completed through an ANSEF grant awarded in 2002).

The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian]

The work presents the detailed history of about 650 Armenian churches (both Apostolic and Catholic) situated in the territory of Georgia. Written on the basis of more than 4,000 published and unpublished sources, mainly found in the Armenian and Georgian archives, it includes over 1,000 photos as well as hundreds of archive and modern measurements.

The Historical Monuments of Artaz [in Armenian]

The book deals with the Armenian monuments of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

Nakhichevan [in Armenian]

An ANSEF grant awarded for an RAA project entitled Nakhichevan in December 2003 enabled us to complete a book offering a detailed history of Nakhichevan, which has been annexed to Azerbaijan since 1921. Totally stripped of its Armenian population since 1988, this region has continually suffered cultural genocide, in the aftermath of which, a great number of Armenian monuments and sites, including the renowned cemetery of Old Jugha with thousands of cross-stones, have been reduced to ruins, and even totally levelled to the ground.

Based on a vast amount of library and archive data collected throughout 20 years of investigation, the book is enriched with more than 1,000 photos, numerous maps, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

A Complete List of Monuments in Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The purpose of this work is to document the cultural monuments of Western Armenia, forming the bulk of the heritage of Historical Armenia, indicating their number, location and condition in every village and town.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The book includes all the lapidary inscriptions offered by different topographers who worked in Western Armenia until 1915. It also comprises tracings of inscriptions collected during the research and documentation activities of the RAA.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book contains about 3,600 Armenian lapidary inscriptions collected in Artsakh throughout many decades of field work.

IMAGE DIGITISATION

In 2004 16,000 images were digitised and double-copied on CDs, with which the RAA database came to total 52,100 images (1,810 CDs). Unfortunately, we had to temporarily stop our digitisation activities late in September (having digitised 66,000 images by then) due to the failure of our scanner (UMAX PowerLook 3000).

DATABASE OF HISTORICAL ARMENIAN MONUMENTS

In January 2004 the RAA submitted a grant application to the Institute of Open Society for a project titled Creation of a Database of Historical Armenian Monuments (within Presentation of Cultural Heritage Via the Internet). Its completion envisaged 4 stages:

1. Detailed research into, and coordination of, the architectural properties of Armenian monuments;

2. Studies of the international standards used in the description of architectural monuments, and their identification with Armenian terms;

3. Website development;

4. Database testing and data entry.

The project won a grant of $ 9,200, $ 3,800 of which was intended for programming.

The tender announced on 20 February 2004 for the creation of an electronic database of Armenian architectural monuments was won by a group of programmers, headed by Vardan Kocharian, from Yerevan State University of Engineering.

Now the testing of the database and data entry are underway. The work is planned to be completed on 1 February 2005.

CONFERENCES

In May 2004 Dr. A. Hakhnazarian made a report on Atropatene Province, Iran, at a conference held by Dr. R. Hovhannissian in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered lectures (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia.

EXHIBITIONS

On 25 February 2004, the RAA opened an exhibition of Northern Artsakh in Alexandre Tamanian Museum-Institute, Yerevan, RA.

On 17 September 2004, with the aim of presenting the condition of Armenian monuments in the countries neighbouring the Republic of Armenia, the Assembly of European Armenians and the RAA jointly held an exhibition of Armenian architectural heritage in the House of the European Parliament, Brussels, Belgium. It was attended by a number of EP members as well as numerous guests and journalists. Margrit Hakhnazarian and Giorgio Bawai, members of the RAA Board, made speeches at the opening ceremony of the exhibition.

From Alphabet Creation to Electronic Culture: this was another exhibition held on 3 October 2004, during which A. Hakhnazarian and A. Gevorgian presented the electronic database of Armenian architectural monuments developed through a grant awarded by the Institute of Open Society.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

In May 2004 S. Karapetian received a Note of High Esteem and Appreciation from Mesropian Armenian Catholic College of Arts, Beirut, Lebanon.

In December of the same year, his work entitled Northern Artsakh was awarded Yeghishe State Literary Prize of the Republic of Artsakh.

CALENDAR

The illustrated, bilingual (Armenian and English) RAA calendar for 2005, which is dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide (1915), exposes the cultural genocide perpetrated in Western Armenia.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In 2003 the RAA members continued their research and documentation activities in Western Armenia.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLICS OF ARTSAKH AND ARMENIA

During the year the RAA continued its research and documentation activities in the Republic of Artsakh. Studies were also carried out in Khosrov Reserve, Ararat Region, RA.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

In November the restoration of the dome broach of the main domed church of the monastery (Katoghike) was accomplished. In the spring of 2004 we shall commence the pavement of its floor; besides, its drum square and gable roof are to be covered with stone (the work is sponsored by Edil Hovnanian from New York, USA).

The restoration of the zhamatun (vestibule) of the monastery is already underway (sponsor: Edik Abrahamian from Teheran, Persia).

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN ST. SARGIS MONASTERY OF USHI

The monastic complex of St. Sargis (5th to 18th centuries) is located half a kilometre west of Ushi Village, Aragatzotn Region, RA, 5 km north of Ashtarak Town, the capital of the region, at an altitude of 1,410 metres above sea level.

It occupies an area of 45 x 54 metres and consists of the following buildings: St. Sargis Chapel, Sourb Astvatzatzin (Holy Virgin) Church, a narthex, a belfry, a refectory, some cells, a vaulted guest chamber, utility rooms, and habitable ones, all of them surrounded by ramparts fortified by double-storied circular towers at the corners.

One of the centres of religious education in Armenia, St. Sargis Monastery was reduced to ruins by the earthquakes of 1679 and 1827.

The only surviving structure of the complex, St. Sargis Chapel, is in emergency condition although it bears some traces of repairs. It represents a single-nave vaulted building (exterior dimensions: 5.8 x 8 metres) of finely-finished basalt and a gable roof.

The foundation of the chapel is traditionally associated with Commander Sargis, the prince of Cappadocia (361 to 363), who was banished by Emperor Julian and found haven in Armenian King Arshak’s court. Later moving to Persia, he served in King Shapuh’s army, but was soon beheaded on the latter’s order for preaching Christianity and was buried in the village town of Namyan, Mazandaran Province. In the first decade of the 5th century, a delegation led by St. Mesrop moved St. Sargis’ remains to Armenia and interred them on an elevation not far from Ushi Village.

In December 2003 conservation activities were carried out in St. Sargis Chapel, the restoration of which will commence in the spring of 2004.

PUBLICATIONS

1. The Mayors of Tiflis [in Armenian & Russian] by Samvel Karapetian (Beirut: Photogravure Zaven & Fils; sponsors: Razmik and Violet Tadevossian, London, UK);

2. Julfa: The Annihilation of the Armenian Cemetery by Nakhijevan’s Azerbaijani Authorities [in English], an illustrated booklet by Armen Hakhnazarian.

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

Javakhk [in Armenian]

The book treats the history and cultural heritage of Javakhk with a special emphasis on the lapidary inscriptions of the region. It is enriched with numerous maps, photos, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

The Microtoponyms of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book includes about 6,000 microtoponyms, i.e., names of hills, mountains, rivers, tributaries, springs, waterfalls, fields, and even lonely trees, collected throughout the territory of Artsakh (field work and preparation of the volume completed through an ANSEF grant awarded in 2002).

Northern Artsakh [in Armenian]

An ANSEF grant awarded for an RAA project entitled Northern Artsakh enabled us to complete a book treating the history and cultural monuments of Northern Artsakh, a region covering the north-eastern lands of Historical Armenia. Based on a vast amount of library and archive data collected throughout 25 years of investigation, the work abounds in photos, maps, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

The Historical Monuments of Artaz [in Armenian]

The book deals with the Armenian monuments of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

Nakhichevan [in Armenian]

An ANSEF grant awarded for an RAA project entitled Nakhichevan in December 2003 enabled us to complete a book offering a detailed history of Nakhichevan, which has been annexed to Azerbaijan since 1921. Totally stripped of its Armenian population since 1988, this region has continually suffered cultural genocide, in the aftermath of which, a great number of Armenian monuments and sites, including the renowned cemetery of Old Jugha with thousands of cross-stones, have been reduced to ruins, and even totally levelled to the ground.

Based on a vast amount of library and archive data collected throughout 20 years of investigation, the book is enriched with more than 1,000 photos, numerous maps, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

A Complete List of Monuments in Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The purpose of this work is to document the cultural monuments of Western Armenia, forming the bulk of the heritage of Historical Armenia, indicating their number, location and condition in every village and town.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Western Armenia [in Armenian]

The book includes all the lapidary inscriptions offered by different topographers who worked in Western Armenia until 1915. It also comprises tracings of inscriptions collected during the research and documentation activities of the RAA.

The Lapidary Inscriptions of Artsakh [in Armenian]

The book contains about 3,600 Armenian lapidary inscriptions collected in Artsakh throughout many decades of field work.

FILMS

Two film series, planned to be shown on several Armenian TV channels between February and March 2004, are underway in the RAA Film Department established in 2003 under director Artak Avdalian’s supervision.

CONFERENCES

On 26 March 2003, Dr. Armen Hakhnazarian participated in the conference Old Jugha: Lost Treasures held in the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia.

In November Dr. Hakhnazarian presented a report at another conference organised by Dr. R. Hovhannissian in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered lectures (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia.

Between 24 and 30 May 2003, on the initiative of the RAA’s American branch, S. Karapetian and A. Hakhnazarian delivered lectures in Los Angeles, Boston, Washington and Glendale (Armenak Ter-Petrossian Hall of Sourb Astvatzatzin Church, Twin Rynos Hall and Iranian Armenians’ Union). Alex Manukian Centre of the AGBU showed director Serozh Melik-Hovsepian’s (Paris) documentary on the historical monuments of the lands liberated during the war of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

EXHIBITIONS

On 13 February 2003, the RAA opened an exhibition exposing the annihilation of Jugha Cemetery in the Union of Architects of Armenia, Yerevan.

On 26 March 2003, another exhibition of Jugha Cemetery was held in the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

In 2003 Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia Aram I addressed a Bull of Gratitude and Blessing to S. Karapetian for his work in the field of Armenian architecture.

CALENDAR

The RAA published two illustrated calendars for 2004: one of them presents Northern Artsakh, and the other the Armenian cemetery of Jugha, Nakhichevan.

RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLICS OF ARTSAKH AND ARMENIA

During the year studies were conducted in different sites and monuments of Artsakh, thanks to which, the RAA archives were enriched with 860 photos, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

Research was also carried out in Khosrov Reserve, Ararat Region, RA, for the purpose of completing a scientific work on its medieval monuments.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

In 2002 the restoration of the main domed church (Katoghike) of the monastery began (sponsor: Edil Hovnanian from New York, USA).

The restoration of Dadivank Complex (elaboration of all projects and supervision of their fulfillment by architect Samvel Ayvazian) becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

PUBLICATIONS

1. The Historical Monuments of Javakhk [in Armenian], an illustrated map by Samvel Karapetian;

2. The Publishings of the Scientific Researches [in Armenian, Russian & English], a coloured booklet-directory on the scientific research works of the NGO (sponsor: Photogravure Zaven & Fils, Beirut, Lebanon).

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

Javakhk [in Armenian]

The book treats the history and cultural heritage of Javakhk with a special emphasis on the lapidary inscriptions of the region. It is enriched with numerous maps, photos, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

The Historical Monuments of Artaz [in Armenian]

The book deals with the Armenian monuments of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

A Guide to Khosrov Reserve [in Armenian & English]

This bilingual guide to Khosrov Reserve, one of the most beautiful landmarks in Armenia, can be useful for those wishing to get acquainted with its flora, fauna, geological structure, and historical monuments (prepared through a grant awarded by Hayastan All Armenian Fund).

FILMS

In November 2002 the RAA Yerevan Headquarters hosted the presentation of Serozh Melik-Hovsepian’s film on the historical monuments of the Armenian lands liberated during the war of Artsakh.

The RAA is planning to establish a film department under the supervision of director Artak Avdalian.

CONFERENCES

In November 2002 some of the RAA members participated in an international ICOMOS seminar held in Yerevan, RA.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered lectures (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia.

EXHIBITIONS

On 18 June 2002, an exhibition of Northern Artsakh opened in the History Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia.

From 26 July until 1 August 2002, an exhibition of the historical monuments of Javakhk was held in Nshan Palanjian Seminary, Beirut, Lebanon.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

In 2002 the Government of the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh) awarded S. Karapetian with the Medal of Mesrop Mashtots.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2003 bears the following heading: Let’s Preserve Our Values: Khosrov Reserve.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

During the 2001 trip, studies were carried out in Kars, Cesarea (Kayseri), in the monastery of Akhtamar, in St. Sargis Church of Khetzkonk Monastic Complex as well as in the city site of Ani and in Sourb Astvatzatzin (Holy Virgin) Monastery of Demirdoven. The RAA team also worked in the districts of Divrig and Datvan.

RESEARCH IN JAVAKHK AND IN THE REPUBLICS OF ARTSAKH (NAGORNO KARABAKH) AND ARMENIA

In July 2001 a 10-day trip was made to Javakhk with the aim of collecting further material for a scientific work on the historical monuments of the region.

From March until April (14 days) as well as from October until November (18 days) 2001, Samvel Karapetian carried out research in 17 villages in Askeran, Shushi, Hadrut, Martuni and Martakert Districts, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh). Studies were also conducted in the adjacent areas, with the local microtoponyms fixed on maps. As a result of these activities, the RAA archives were enriched with 950 photos, measurements and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

In August 2001 another short-term trip was made to Artsakh to complete the shooting of Serozh Melik-Hovsepian’s (Paris) film on the historical monuments of the liberated districts.

During the year research was also carried out in Khosrov Reserve, Ararat Region, RA, for the purpose of completing a scientific work on its medieval monuments.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

For some technical reasons, the restoration of the small domed church of the monastery (sponsors: Shahen and Martha Harutiunian, New York, USA) was delayed until the spring of 2002.

The restoration of Dadivank’s main church will be carried out through the financial assistance of Edil Hovnanian from New York, USA. The project, worked out by architect Samvel Ayvazian, has been approved by the Scientific Council of the RA Board of Preservation of Historical and Cultural Monuments.

The restoration of Dadivank Complex becomes even more important from a political standpoint as it proves that the liberated district of Karvajar has been inhabited by Armenians since times bygone.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Armenian Cultural Monuments in the Region of Karabakh [in English] by Samvel Karapetian;

2. Princely Palaces in Artsakh and Siunik [in Armenian] by Artak Ghulian (sponsors: Shahen and Martha Harutiunian, Los Angeles, USA)

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

Javakhk [in Armenian]

The book treats the history and cultural heritage of Javakhk with a special emphasis on the lapidary inscriptions of the region. It is enriched with numerous maps, photos, measurements, and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

The Historical Monuments of Artaz [in Armenian]

The book deals with the Armenian monuments of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

The Armenian Churches of Georgia [in Armenian]

The work presents the detailed history of about 650 Armenian churches (both Apostolic and Catholic) situated in the territory of Georgia. Written on the basis of more than 4,000 published and unpublished sources, mainly found in the Armenian and Georgian archives, it includes over 1,000 photos as well as hundreds of archive and modern measurements.

CONFERENCES

In 2001 the RAA members delivered reports at the following conferences: A Dialogue of Civilisations (Yerevan, 20 to 24 August); Christian Armenia as a Cross-Road of Civilisations (Yerevan, 19 to 21 September), and The Problems of Monument Preservation (Stepanakert, 7 to 9 November).

In May 2001 Alexandre Kananian, a representative of the RAA, participated in a conference held in Los Angeles, CA, USA, with a report on the monuments of the historical Armenian province of Tayk.

In July Samvel Karapetian presented a report on the historical monuments of Javakhk at a conference held in Beirut, Lebanon.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

In different educational institutions of Yerevan, the RAA members delivered lectures (accompanied with slide presentation) on the heritage of Historical Armenia.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2002 presents Dadivank Monastery.

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE RAA YEREVAN HEADQUARTERS

On 22 February 2000, the official opening of the RAA Yerevan Headquarters was held in the Institute of Art of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia thanks to the good will manifested by Levon Hakhverdian of blessed memory, then Director of the Institute.

The establishment of the RAA Yerevan Headquarters opened new horizons of activity. The members of the organisation started digitising its archives containing tens of thousands of negatives, positives, photographs, measurements, maps, and other materials accumulated throughout many decades.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In 2000 two research trips were made to Western Armenia for the purpose of documenting historical Armenian sites and monuments. During the first trip, which lasted a month, the RAA members worked in Caesarea, in the city site of Ani as well as in the districts of Diverek and Akn.

During the second trip, which was shorter, studies were carried out in Kars, Ani, Bagnayr, Tekor, Berkri, Shushants, in the monasteries of Varag and Aghtamar as well as in numerous other historical Armenian villages and towns. The RAA archives were enriched with about 1,800 photos and a large number of lapidary inscriptions.

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH (NAGORNO KARABAKH) AND ARMENIA

Between 26 March and 20 April 2000, the RAA team, headed by Samvel Karapetian, conducted studies in 19 villages of Askeran and Martakert Districts, Artsakh, for the purpose of collecting microtoponyms. The fruits of this research comprise about 800 photos, measurements and tracings of lapidary inscriptions.

In July of the same year, another trip was made to Artsakh for the shooting of a film (director: Serozh Melik-Hovsepian, Paris) on the historical monuments of the Armenian lands liberated during the war of Artsakh.

In 2000 Samvel Karapetian made two short-term trips to Khosrov Reserve, Ararat Region, RA, for the purpose of completing a scientific work on its medieval monuments.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

In 2000 the RAA continued the restoration of the small domed church of the monastic complex (the project of its restoration with stone, mortar and brick had been approved earlier, in 1999). In order to guarantee the firmness of the church, we had to procure the same building materials that had been originally used during its construction.

The work implemented in the small domed church of Dadivank in 2000 may be summarised as follows:

1. The vaulted cells in the west of the complex were repaired (they served as temporary dwellings for the builders).

2. The church roof was cleaned and partly rebuilt. The tiled cover of its southern vault was completed.

3. The dome cornices were reconstructed; their non-preserved and damaged sections were made anew of the same kind of stone.

4. The spire and its tiled cover were fully reconstructed.

5. The blackened plaster of the church walls was cleaned and the altar was repaired.

6. The hall columns being bent, the future condition of the church was highly endangered: this situation obliged us to rebuild the columns and reduce the amount of soil accumulated on its roof, something unforeseen by the project.

Further work was interrupted due to the cold weather of December.

The restoration activities carried out in 2000 under the supervision of Armen Mnatsakanian were sponsored by Shahen and Martha Harutiunian, Los Angeles, CA, USA.

REPAIRS IN ST. GEVORG (GEORGE) MONASTERY OF MUGHNI

St. Gevorg Monastery, which is located in Mughni Village, Aragatzotn Region, RA, consists of St. Gevorg Church and some monks’ dwellings.

In May 2000, when Archbishop Mesrop Ashjian initiated the renovation of the monastery, the RAA was entrusted with the elaboration of a project and the supervision of the process of repairs. The work implemented in the monastic complex may be summarised as follows:

1. Water was removed through outer slabs for the purpose of saving the church walls from getting wet.

2. The stone abodes of monks and the monastic library, which were absolutely unfit for use, were repaired with modern accommodations; in the meantime, their original features and appearance were retained.

The consecration of the monastery was held in September 2000 in the presence of His Holiness Garegin II.

PUBLICATIONS

Armenian Cultural Monuments in the Region of Karabakh [in Russian] by Samvel Karapetian (translation sponsored by the RA Foreign Ministry and Alek Stepanian, St. Petersburg, Russia)

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2001 (sponsor: lawyer Karl Ulbricht) presents a cross-stone from Handaberd Monastery, Karvajar District, Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In 1999 the RAA members made a one-month research trip to Western Armenia for the purpose of documenting historical Armenian sites and monuments. The team particularly worked in Akn, Diverek District, Sourb Khach (Holy Cross) Monastery of Aghtamar Island, Lake Van, as well as in the historical Armenian city sites of Van and Ani.

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH (Nagorno Karabakh)

During the year, two research trips were made to Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh): between March and April, the RAA team worked in Askeran and Martuni Districts, and in September to November, in the district of Martakert. These activities marked the beginning of large-scale, multi-lateral studies in Artsakh planned long before.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

In 1999 the RAA continued studies of the architectural monuments of the Iranian city of New Jugha (Julfa) according to a 1996 agreement signed between the organisation and Pardis State University, Iran. The results of the work carried out until 1999 were discussed at a meeting held in Teheran in November. The participants of the meeting also arranged plans for future activities.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

In the summer and autumn of 1999, restoration activities were carried out in the small domed church of the monastic complex. The project of its restoration with stone, mortar and brick had been approved earlier during the year. The work implemented may be summarised as follows:

July: provision and delivery of the necessary building materials (brick, timber, quicklime) and completion of lime slaking;

August: preparation of forms for the western and eastern parts of the vault; removal of the eastern arch and pendentive, and restoration of the western arch and pendentive;

September: completion of the timber casing of the southern side; restoration of the southern part of the vault and the stone masonry of the southern facade;

October: completion of the timber casing of the southern and eastern facades and their complete restoration;

November: covering of the church floor with stone slabs brought from Karvajar, and restoration of the altar section.

Further work in the monastery was interrupted due to the cold weather.

The restoration activities carried out in 1999 under the supervision of Armen Mnatsakanian were sponsored by John Vardan (Boston, USA) and the spouses Karen and Gustav Upmeier (Bilefeld, Germany).

PUBLICATIONS

Armenian Cultural Monuments in the Region of Karabakh [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian (sponsors: Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Melikian, Boston, USA)

CONFERENCES

In May 1999 various RAA partners from different countries (Iran, Egypt, Syria, USA, Germany, Switzerland and Poland) participated in a scientific conference on Armenian architecture with 10 reports. The conference was held by the RA Board of the Preservation of Historical Monuments.

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 2000 presents a cross-stone set in the portal of the ruined church of Sourb Nshan (Holy Sign) located in Takyaghaya (Keshishkend) Village, Karvajar District, Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

During the trip to Western Armenia, which was made in July 1998, studies were carried out in Sourb Amenaprkich (Holy Saviour) Monastery, located in the east of Trebizond City, as well as in the district of Hamshen, where the targets of research were particularly village houses, stone-built bridges and castles.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc. Most of these buildings have survived, but until very recently they were in a state of decay and even in emergency condition.

In the summer of 1998, after the removal of the soil and water accumulated around the church, some fragments of its former roof were revealed, a few undamaged tiles serving as patterns for making new ones.

Further work carried out in the monastic complex in 1998 may be summarised as follows:

1. A restoration project was worked out for the main domed church named Katoghike;

2. The small domed church was measured, and a restoration project was elaborated for it;

3. After the removal of the soil and stones accumulated around the church, some excavations and drainage were conducted there;

4. The western wall of the church was restored.

Many of the damaged underdome arches of the church and its tambour are built of stone and brick, due to which, their repairs will be rather complicated; probably, it will take 2 years to complete them.

The restoration activities carried out in the monastery in 1998 under the supervision of Armen Mnatsakanian were sponsored by Archbishop Mesrop Ashjian in memory of his brother Hakob Ashjian.

PUBLICATIONS

The State Policy of Georgia and the Monuments of Armenian Culture [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian

CALENDAR

The illustrated RAA calendar for 1999, published under the sponsorship of Karl Ulbricht, presents the monastery of Dadivank.

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH (NAGORNO KARABAKH)

In 1997 Samvel Karapetian continued research in Karvajar District, liberated since 1993, for the purpose of completing a work on the historical monuments of the liberated Armenian lands.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

In 1997 the RAA continued studies of the architectural monuments of the Iranian city of New Jugha (Julfa) according to a 1996 agreement signed between the organisation and Pardis State University, Iran. This research will be completed in 1999.

PUBLICATIONS

The Armenian Lapidary Inscriptions of Boon Aghvank [in Armenian] by Samvel Karapetian

FORTHCOMING BOOKS

Armenian Cultural Monuments in the Region of Karabakh [in Armenian, Russian and English] by Samvel Karapetian

THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE RAA IN THE UNITED STATES

In 1996 Research on Armenian Architecture (RAA) was established in Los Angeles, California, USA, with the support of Roubina Der-Sarkissian, Razmik Harutiunian, Marco Brambilla, Armen Janian and Mark Chenian, who became the first members of the American branch of the organisation, with Shahen Harutiunian as its President.

In April of the same year, a number of events (including two lectures on Karvajar District) were held to introduce the RAA activities and future projects to the Armenian community of Los Angeles.

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH (NAGORNO KARABAKH)

In the summer of 1996, Samvel Karapetian conducted 24-day studies in the liberated district of Kashatagh (Lachin).

RESEARCH IN IRAN

In 1996 the RAA and Pardis State University, Iran, signed an agreement under which joint studies are to be conducted in the Iranian city of New Jugha (Julfa) for the purpose of documenting its historical Armenian monuments. This research will be completed in 1999.

GARDMANK NEWSPAPER

In 1996, with the help of the RAA, the Union of Gardmank Armenians started publishing a newspaper presenting the history and cultural heritage of this ancient Armenian region located in the north-east of Artsakh Province, Armenia Maior. The editor-in-chief of the first three issues of the newspaper was Samvel Karapetian.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In August 1995 the RAA members made a trip to Western Armenia during which they worked in places lying on the shores of Lake Van. Studies were particularly carried out in the following monasteries: Matnavank, Sourb Harutiun (Holy Ascension) of Divabuyn, St. Hakob (Jacob) of Kaputkogh, Karmrak Sourb Astvatzatzin (also called Miandzn and Anen), Sourb Khach (Holy Cross) of Kurupash, St. Grigor (Gregory) of Salnapat, St. Sahak of Yererin, Sourb Astvatzatzin (Holy Virgin) of Argelan, St. Tade (Thaddeus) of Sukhurd, Ter Huskan Vordi Sourb Stepanos (St. Stephen) and others.

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH (NAGORNO KARABAKH)

In 1995 Samvel Karapetian continued studies of historical monuments in the liberated districts of Artsakh: Karvajar (Kelbajar), Kashatagh (Lachin), Kashunik (Ghubatli), Kovsakan (Zangelan), Jrakan (Jabrail), Akn (Aghdam) and Varanda (Fizuli). This work has been underway since 1993.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Armenian Churches in Georgia [in Armenian], a list and map by Samvel Karapetian;

2. The Cross-Stones of Javakhk [in Armenian], a booklet by Samvel Karapetian;

3. Republic of Nagorno Karabakh and Liberated Districts [in Armenian], a map by Samvel Karapetian;

4. Republic of Armenia [in Armenian], a map by Samvel Karapetian.

EXHIBITIONS

On 11 October 1995, Hovhannes Tumanian Museum, Yerevan, RA, hosted the opening of S. Karapetian’s exhibition of Armenian monuments located in the liberated districts of Artsakh. It was inaugurated by Minister of Culture Hakob Movses.

From 16 until 21 November, the exhibition was open in V. Papazian Theatre of Stepanakert, Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh).

OBITUARY

In June 1994 merited architect Armen Zarian, one of the members of the RAA Scientific Council, departed this life, leaving all his friends and relatives in deep mourning. One of the cordial supporters of the RAA, he always encouraged its members to continue their activities despite all hardships.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In 1994 the RAA members made 2 research trips to Western Armenia, during which they worked in the regions north of Lake Van as well as in the districts of Akn, Arabkir, Derjan and Khnus.

RESEARCH IN ARTSAKH (NAGORNO KARABAKH)

In 1994 a number of trips were made to the districts of Karvajar (Kelbajar), Kashatagh (Lachin), Kashunik (Ghubatli), Kovsakan (Zangelan), Jrakan (Jabrail) and Akn (Aghdam) to continue the research underway since 1993. In Karvajar alone, 521 monuments were documented, including 146 village sites, 37 churches and monasteries, 6 bridges, the same number of castles, 4 springs, 22 cemeteries, 28 secular buildings, 5 ancient sites and 267 cross-stones.

RESEARCH IN CAUCASIA AND THE REGIONS NORTH OF THE BLACK SEA

The RAA continues studies of the centuries-old Armenian architectural heritage in Caucasia and the regions north of the Black Sea. This difficult and sometimes even dangerous work is carried out by its chief partner in Yerevan, Samvel Karapetian.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

In 1992 the RAA and its partners continued studies in the historical Armenian districts of Iran (Artaz, Zarevand, Parspatunik) and the Armenian settlements (Hamadan, Mashhad, Tabriz, New Jugha, Peria, Charmahal) of the country. The work has been in process since 1988.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES IN DADIVANK MONASTERY

The monastic complex of Dadivank, situated in Karvajar District, Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), consists of various structures, including 4 churches, 6 chapels, its main domed church named Katoghike (1214), its principal church dating back to 1211, a zhamatun (vestibule, 1224), a belfry (1283), etc.

In September 1993 the RAA initiated the measurement of all the buildings of the monastic complex.

The 1995 activities first of all include the repairs and conservation of those monastic buildings which are in an emergency situation.

RESEARCH IN CAUCASIA AND THE REGIONS NORTH OF THE BLACK SEA

The RAA continues studies of the centuries-old Armenian architectural heritage in Caucasia and the regions north of the Black Sea with the help of its partners living in Armenia.

In 1992 4 research trips were made to Marneul and Bolnis Districts (historical Armenian province of Gugark) of present-day Georgia. Since the beginning of studies in Marneul in 1991, 308 monuments have been documented; as for Bolnis, there is still a lot of work to do there.

RESEARCH IN SYRIA

In the summer of 1992, the RAA started research in the district of Kesab, constituting the southern part of Historical Cilicia, for the purpose of documenting the heritage of Syrian Armenians. The work began with the measurement of the churches and stone houses of Kesab. The participants included architect Gevorg Yeramian and Marush Yeramian.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

In 1992 the RAA and its partners continued studies in the historical Armenian districts of Iran (Artaz, Zarevand, Parspatunik) and the Armenian settlements (Hamadan, Mashhad, Tabriz, New Jugha, Peria, Charmahal) of the country.

PUBLICATIONS

1. Nor-Djulfa, vol. 21 of Documenti di architettura armena [in English and Italian] by Armen Hakhnazarian and Vahan Mehrabian;

2. Getashen [in Armenian], a book by Samvel Karapetian;

3. Getashen [in Armenian], a folded leaflet by Samvel Karapetian;

4. Akhalkalak [in Armenian], a folded leaflet by Samvel Karapetian;

5. Republics of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh [in Armenian], an administrative map by Samvel Karapetian;

6. Kars Region [in Armenian], an ethnic distribution map by Samvel Karapetian.

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

During the 3 research trips made to Western Armenia in 1990, the RAA representatives worked in Khotorjur and Hamshen Districts, Tayk Province, in the regions lying north of Lake Van and in the Armenian villages located south of Trebizond.

RESEARCH IN CAUCASIA AND THE REGIONS NORTH OF THE BLACK SEA

The RAA continues studies of the centuries-old Armenian architectural heritage in Caucasia and the regions north of the Black Sea with the help of its partners living in Armenia.

In order to supervise this research, in the summer of 1990, the RAA and Land and Culture Organisation jointly set up a central body headed by Vahan Papazian.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

During the year, the RAA members continued studies in the city of New Jugha (Julfa), simultaneously working at the measurements and drawings of the local churches. Thanks to these efforts, our archives have come to comprise 3,000 photos. The targets of our 1991 activities are the houses and public buildings (schools, bath-houses, etc.) of the city.

In the summer of 1990, two trips were made to the district of Peria, where 20 villages were visited, with 10 churches photographed. Besides, the RAA archives were also enriched with over 900 images of tombstones.

The RAA members also worked in St. Minas Church of Vanak Village, St. Hovhannes (John) Church of Maragha City and in Tabriz, where the following churches were finally measured: St. Shoghakat, St. Sargis, Sourb Astvatzatzin (Holy Virgin) of Ghala Quarter and another church of the same name in Maralan Quarter.

The restoration of the northern apse of the church of St. Thaddeus the Apostle’s Monastery, in process since the summer of 1988, continued in 1990.

In the summer of 1990, renovation was also carried out in the chapel of St. Sandukht (probably, it will be completed in 1991).

We also continued the restoration of the church of the monastery of Sourb Stepanos Nakhavka (Stephen the Proto-Deacon), mainly concentrating our efforts on its roof and the adjoining walls.

After some preliminary preparations carried out in 1989, in 1990 we started removing the accumulated soil and stones from the immediate vicinity of the small church of Andreordi (15th to 16th centuries) located on the way from Julfa to Darashamb. This helped us unclose some ruined cells and the ramparts of the church. The repairs of the church exterior are scheduled for 1991 (the work is sponsored by Dr. Shahen Harutiunian).

RESEARCH IN WESTERN ARMENIA

In 1989 the RAA members made 4 research trips to Western Armenia. During the first two, they worked in Khotorjur and Hamshen Districts of Tayk Province. The third trip started in the district of Keghi and continued in the historical Armenian lands lying north of Lake Van. During the fourth trip, studies were carried out in the districts of Akner and Arabkir.

RESEARCH IN CAUCASIA AND THE REGIONS NORTH OF THE BLACK SEA

In the summer of 1989, Patrick Tonapetian, in partnership with the RAA, carried out studies in Caucasia and the regions lying north of the Black Sea for the purpose of documenting the monuments of Armenian settlements.

RESEARCH IN IRAN

In December 1989 the detailed measurements of 13 churches of New Jugha (Julfa), prepared during our 1988 studies in the city, were submitted to the Diocese Council of Jugha.

In 1989 the RAA and its partners continued studies in the historical Armenian districts of Iran (Artaz, Zarevand, Parspatunik) and the Armenian settlements (Hamadan, Mashhad, Tabriz, New Jugha, Peria, Charmahal) of the country. The participants of the work, in process since 1988, include Serozh Tilimian (Maku), Anahit Hovsepian (Maragha, Hamadan, Mashhad), Armine Yaghubian (Muzhambar), Anahit Mesropian (Salmast), Helen Arakelian and Lida Matevossian (Rasht, Urmia), Vahan Mehrabian (New Jugha) and Armen Hakhnazarian (the architecture of New Jugha churches).

In collaboration with Land and Culture Organisation, the RAA is working at a film (sponsor: Archpriest Bagrat Melkonian) on the repairs of the Armenian monasteries of the historical Armenian district of Artaz (at present: Maku District in Azerbaijan Province, Iran).

For over 25 years, since the early 1960s, the Iranian Cultural Heritage Organisation, Mirase Farhangi, has been implementing repairs and restoration in the Armenian monasteries of the historical Armenian district of Artaz. The work has been ongoing through the efforts of the Diocese Council of Atropatene (Azerbaijan) and the financial support of Land and Culture Organisation, with the RAA as one of the main participants of these activities.

In 1989 the NGO almost completed the reconstruction of the northern apse of the church of the monastery of Sourb Tadevos Arakyal (St. Thaddeus the Apostle), in process since the summer of 1988.

The year 1989 also saw the completion of the repairs of the roof of Sts. Poghos-Petros (Peter and Paul) Church of Sourb Stepanos Nakhavka (St. Stephen the Proto-Deacon) Monastery, underway since the autumn of 1988. Parallel with this, the western facade of Sts. Poghos-Petros Church was partly renovated, and the damaged semi-circular arches of the main monastic church were repaired. The work is to be continued in the spring of 1990.

In the summer of 1989, reconstruction continued in the church of Sourb Astvatzatzin (Holy Virgin) Monastery of Tzortzor re-erected in 1988 (in 1987 it had been dismantled, its stones being numbered and moved to a higher place not to be left beneath the water reservoir of Barun planned to be built nearby). Work was particularly carried out in the church roof and in its western and northern facades.

Apart from this, the RAA is also planning to start the renovation of the small church of Andreordi (15th to 16th centuries), located on the way from Julfa to Darashamb, in the spring of 1990.

The 1990 activities of the RAA also include the beginning of restoration in St. Gevorg (George) Church situated in the gorge of the river Tghmut, in the area between the villages of Marakand and Darashamb. It represents a central-domed structure of finely-dressed white stone dating from the 15th century. Abandoned and neglected for centuries, it is in an endangered state, its dome being on the verge of collapse.

MICROFICHE ON ARMENIAN ARCHITECTURE

In 1989 the RAA published the 7th volume of microfiche entitled Armenian Architecture, a project underway since 1983 under the patronage of physicist Vazgen Barseghian from New York, USA.

Each of the volumes of microfiche contains 4,000 to 5,000 images, measurements and texts not only from the RAA archives but also from the collections of Soviet Armenia’s Principal Department for the Preservation and Use of Monuments. After the 7th volume, the work stopped due to the shortage of financial means; besides, modern technologies already allowed the preservation of any form of data through digitisation.