Megerian Carpet Armenia: A Timeless Weaving Tradition

Megerian Carpet Armenia, located in Yerevan, is a celebration of Armenian carpet weaving, a tradition stretching back millennia. Founded in 1917 in New York by the Megerian family, the company has since established its main production base in Yerevan, reviving and preserving ancient techniques. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule, where visitors can witness the intricate process of carpet making firsthand. Skilled artisans demonstrate the traditional methods, using hand-spun wool and natural dyes derived from flowers, roots, and plants of the Armenian highlands. The company is known for reintroducing these natural dyeing methods to Armenia. Each carpet incorporates Armenian double knots, a technique recognized as one of the oldest and most durable in the world. On one square meter of carpet, 160,000 Armenian double knots are present. The on-site museum displays a rich collection of antique Armenian carpets, some dating back to the 17th century, each telling a story of Armenian history, beliefs, and legends. Some carpets are inspired by the era of the Old Kingdom of Armenia, reflecting the art and architecture of that time. One particularly touching story is about the “Shield rug”: during the genocide an Armenian mother cut the rug into pieces and gave each piece to her daughters and said if they lost each other they could find and recognize each other by this rug. After fifty years they met each other in New York. Megerian Carpet is committed to not only highlighting Armenian cultural heritage but also contributing to the economic development of the local community by providing employment and supporting artisan families. The Megerian Carpet Complex stands out as a proud symbol of Armenian cultural expression, combining traditional techniques with modern influences to preserve the ancient art of carpet weaving. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Armenian dishes at the on-site restaurant, enhancing the cultural experience.