Matenadaran
Erevan
The Matenadaran, officially known as the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, is located in Yerevan, Armenia, and stands as the largest center for the storage, study, and dissemination of Armenian manuscripts. Established in 1959 from the nationalized Armenian Church collection formerly housed at Etchmiadzin, it combines the roles of a museum, archive, and scientific institution. The Matenadaran holds the most extensive collection of Armenian manuscripts globally, many of which are included in UNESCO's Memory of the World register. Named after Mesrop Mashtots, the inventor of the Armenian alphabet, whose statue adorns its façade, the institute symbolizes Armenia's rich literary and cultural history. It not only preserves medieval manuscripts saved from destruction during invasions and genocides but also actively promotes scholarly research and public education. The building itself is a landmark in Yerevan, attracting visitors interested in Armenian heritage, medieval art, and manuscript studies. The Matenadaran continues to expand its collection through donations and serves as a vital center for understanding Armenian identity and history through its ancient texts.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to check the official website for current opening hours and special events, such as international conferences on manuscript studies. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to avoid queues. The best time to visit is during weekdays when the museum is less crowded. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours are offered and can enrich the experience by providing detailed context about the manuscripts and Armenian history.
Faits intéressants
- •The Matenadaran's collection is included in UNESCO's Memory of the World register.
- •The name 'Matenadaran' derives from Middle Persian words meaning 'repository of books or manuscripts.'
- •Thousands of Armenian manuscripts were destroyed during invasions and the Armenian Genocide, making the surviving collection invaluable.
- •The statue of Mesrop Mashtots, the inventor of the Armenian alphabet, stands prominently in front of the building.
- •The Matenadaran also functions as a research institute, hosting international conferences on ancient manuscripts.
Histoire
The origins of the Matenadaran trace back to medieval Armenian manuscript repositories located in monasteries such as Haghpat and Sanahin.
The earliest known repository was at the Etchmiadzin Catholicosate in the 5th century.
Over centuries, thousands of manuscripts were lost due to invasions by Seljuk Turks, Mongols, and others.
The modern Matenadaran was established in 1959, consolidating manuscripts nationalized from the Armenian Church and those returned from Moscow after World War I.
Its collection grew from a few thousand manuscripts in the 19th century to the largest Armenian manuscript repository today, reflecting Armenia's turbulent history and dedication to preserving its literary heritage.
Guide du lieu
Main Exhibition Halls
These halls display a vast collection of Armenian manuscripts, including religious texts, historical documents, and illuminated works dating from the medieval period onward. Visitors can admire the intricate calligraphy and artwork that illustrate Armenia's rich manuscript tradition.
Mesrop Mashtots Statue20th century
A prominent statue of Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet, stands in front of the Matenadaran building, symbolizing the institute's dedication to Armenian literacy and culture.
Research Institute Facilities
The Matenadaran also houses academic and scientific facilities dedicated to the study and preservation of manuscripts, hosting scholars and international conferences.
Contact
Téléphone: (010) 562578