Research on Armenian Architecture Hosts Book Launch for 6th ‘History of Armeni

Attendees at the Research on Armenian Architecture’s book launch event in Glendale, Calif.

GLENDALE – The Research on Armenian Architecture hosted a compelling book presentation on Gharadagh and its five regions—a district in the Paytakaran province of Greater Armenia (Մեծ Հայքի), now in modern-day Iran—at the Armenian Society of Los Angeles. The evening served as a unique opportunity for community members to attend an event dedicated to those with Gharadagh lineage.

The book launch brought back memories of earlier times, filled with laughter and shared reminiscence. Through engaging stories, rich architectural heritage, and thoughtful discussion, the event vividly brought history to life, reminding attendees that Armenian history is not only preserved, but actively celebrated.

Founded in 1982 in Germany by Prof. Armen Hakhnazarian, RAA is dedicated to researching and documenting Armenian cultural monuments across historical Armenia and diaspora communities. The organization later expanded to Glendale in 1996 and Yerevan in 1998, with RAA Armenia becoming a formal foundation in 2010. 

Jora Manoucherian, President of RAA/USA, on behalf of the Board of Directors, warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and attendees. He noted that RAA has digitized and archived approximately 690,000 photographs and documents, creating a truly unique collection of its kind.

He further explained that the RAA building, acquired and renovated in July 2023, includes a library named in honor of Samuel Karapetyan, housing more than 20,000 books, as well as an auditorium named after Armen Hakhnazarian.

Manoucherian also shared that the RAA Museum is currently under development and will feature letters of recognition, medals, artifacts collected during expedition trips, and other valuable materials.

The newly published sixth volume of RAA’s 36-volume “History of Armenia” series focuses on Gharadagh and its regions. Richly illustrated, the book features photographs, family trees, demographic data, and a comprehensive catalog of monuments, along with a detailed regional map. The work was initiated by the late historian and architectural expert Samuel Karapetyan and later completed by his wife, Emma Abrahamyan.

Published under the patronage of Janet Mirzayan, the research and volume were generously sponsored by her and dedicated to the cherished memory of her parents, Armenoohi Aparian and Hovhanes Melik Ghassemian. “I vividly remember my trip to Gharadagh when I was 13. These memories have left a lasting impression on me,” Mirzayan said. “I will always treasure my father’s stories.”

The volume highlights the history and architectural heritage of Gharadagh’s villages, with support from Armenian institutions and foundations.

The evening also included recognition of notable Armenians from Gharadagh, past and present, celebrating a legacy of resilience, culture, and achievement.

The program concluded with a reception, where guests were invited to enjoy a selection of traditional Armenian appetizers, along with champagne, coffee, and tea, and continued the evening with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 

To purchase a copy of the RAA’s latest volume, email [email protected].

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