A concept has been developed to restore the “Artashat Capital” archaeological site and transform it into a tourism hub, following nearly a year of studies carried out by the French Development Agency (AFD) in cooperation with Armenia’s Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport and the EU Delegation in Armenia.
The ministry said the concept was presented at the Komitas Museum-Institute, attended by Minister Zhanna Andreasyan, Deputy Minister Alfred Kocharyan, Head of Cooperation Section of the EU Delegation to Armenia Frank Hess, and a representative of the French Development Agency.
Welcoming participants, Andreasyan said the historic capital of Artashat is one of the most important symbols of Armenia’s statehood and remains insufficiently explored. According to the development concept, the site is expected to become one of the country’s most visited destinations in the coming years.
“This monument reflects our state traditions from centuries ago. The aim of the programme is to fully present and realise the site’s potential, both in terms of preserving and transmitting cultural heritage and developing it as a tourist destination. International experience and cooperation are essential in developing the roadmap, which will ensure a worthy approach to presenting the historic capital of Artashat to the public and tourists as a sign of respect for our history,” Andreasyan said, thanking all parties involved.
She added that engagement with cultural environments significantly changes perceptions of architectural thinking, design features and engineering infrastructure.
Andreasyan also said work has long been under way to make the Getamerdz district of the historic capital of Artashat more accessible to the public. Design work is ongoing for site improvement, road separation, restoration and reinforcement.
At the same time, construction of a modular centre, including a waiting area, is under way in cooperation with the community. Archaeological excavations were carried out in the Getamerd district in 2025 by order of the ministry, and a project has been commissioned for the reinforcement, restoration and improvement of the excavated sections. Steps are also being taken to further improve accessibility of the district for tourists.
Published by Armenpress, original at
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