If you’re looking for a place to explore the rich history of Armenia, the Armenia National Museum is a must-visit. The museum, located in the capital city of Yerevan, is the country’s premier cultural institution and showcases a diverse range of exhibits covering the history of Armenia from prehistoric times to the present day. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Armenia National Museum, its history, exhibits, and other important details.
History of the Armenia National Museum
The Armenia National Museum was established in 1919, shortly after the First Republic of Armenia gained independence from the Ottoman Empire. Initially housed in a small building in Yerevan, the museum’s collections quickly grew, and in 1921, a new building was constructed to house the museum’s exhibits.
Over the years, the museum’s collections continued to expand, and in 1978, a major renovation was undertaken to modernize the museum and improve its facilities. Today, the Armenia National Museum is a world-class institution with a collection of over 400,000 objects.
Exhibits at the Armenia National Museum
The Armenia National Museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum is divided into two main sections: permanent exhibits and temporary exhibits.
Permanent Exhibits
The permanent exhibits at the Armenia National Museum cover four main periods of Armenian history: prehistoric Armenia, ancient Armenia, medieval Armenia, and modern Armenia.
Prehistoric Armenia
The prehistoric Armenia exhibit covers the period from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age and includes artifacts such as stone tools, pottery, and jewelry.
Ancient Armenia
The ancient Armenia exhibit covers the period from the Iron Age to the end of the Arsacid Dynasty in 428 AD. It includes exhibits on the Urartu civilization, the Kingdom of Van, and the Achaemenid and Hellenistic periods.
Medieval Armenia
The medieval Armenia exhibit covers the period from the rise of the Bagratid Dynasty in the 9th century to the fall of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia in the 14th century. It includes exhibits on Armenian architecture, manuscripts, and metalwork.
Modern Armenia
The modern Armenia exhibit covers the period from the 19th century to the present day and includes exhibits on Armenian culture, art, and industry.
Temporary Exhibits
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Armenia National Museum also hosts temporary exhibits on a wide range of topics, including art, history, and culture.
Visiting the Armenia National Museum
If you’re planning a visit to the Armenia National Museum, here are some important details to keep in mind:
Location
The museum is located in central Yerevan, on Republic Square.
Hours of Operation
The museum is open from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Sunday. It is closed on Mondays and national holidays.
Admission Fees
Admission fees vary depending on age and nationality. For adults, the fee is 2,000 Armenian dram (approximately $4.20 USD). Discounts are available for students, seniors, and children.
FAQs
- Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Yes, photography is allowed, but without flash.
- Are guided tours available at the Armenia National Museum?
Yes, guided tours are available for an additional fee. Visitors can arrange for a guided tour in advance or at the museum ticket desk.
- Are audio guides available?
Yes, audio guides are available in several languages, including English, for an additional fee.
- What is the best time of day to visit the Armenia National Museum?
The museum tends to be less crowded in the morning and early afternoon, so those times may be best for visitors who prefer a quieter experience.
- Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the museum is fully accessible for people with disabilities. Wheelchairs are available for visitors who need them.
Conclusion
The Armenia National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Armenian history and culture. With its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits covering thousands of years of history, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Armenia National Museum is well worth a visit.
References
- “National Museum of Armenia.” Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia, accessed April 30, 2023. https://culture.am/en/museum/3.
- “National Museum of Armenia.” Lonely Planet, accessed April 30, 2023. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/armenia/yerevan/attractions/national-museum-of-armenia/a/poi-sig/1353523/357165.
- “Armenia National Museum.” Armenian Tourism Development Foundation, accessed April 30, 2023. https://atdf.am/armenia-national-museum/.