Hovhannes Sharambeyan Museum of Folk Art

The Hovhannes Sharambeyan Museum of Folk Art, located on Abovyan Street in Yerevan, is a cultural center dedicated to preserving and showcasing Armenian folk art. The museum's origins trace back to the 1930s with the establishment of the Folk Art House by ethnographer Habetnak Babayan, whose collection formed the basis of the museum. Officially founded in 1978, the museum is named after Hovhannes Sharambeyan, a key figure in preserving and promoting Armenian folk art. The museum's collection comprises over 12,000 items, representing various facets of Armenian folk art. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring wood carvings, stone engravings, metalwork, ceramics, embroidery, miniatures, carpets, and paintings. The museum also highlights the works of self-taught artists, providing insight into the evolution and diversity of Armenian artistic expression. The building itself, dating back to the 1930s, adds to the museum's ambiance with its traditional Armenian architectural elements. The museum plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Armenian cultural heritage, bridging the gap between past traditions and contemporary arts and crafts. It organizes temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs for both locals and tourists, offering opportunities to engage with Armenian culture and learn traditional craft techniques.