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King of the Forest: Dilijan's Arboreal Monarch

Discover the King of the Forest in Dilijan, Armenia: a unique sculpture blending art and nature in the heart of the 'Armenian Switzerland'.

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The King of the Forest is a monumental tree sculpture created in 1967 by Ara Sargsian, located near Aghasi Khanjian's former summer residence in Dilijan. This unique landmark embodies a forest deity, with its human-like form watching over the surrounding woods.

A brief summary to King of the Forest

  • PVP6+QHC, Dilijan, AM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the area has various paths perfect for exploration.
  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and capture breathtaking photos as the sun rises.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, making the most of your time in this serene location.
  • Consider visiting during the fall to experience the stunning autumn colors that enhance the landscape.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Dilijan city center, head northwest on Myasnikyan Street. Continue onto G. Zoryan Street for about 4.5 kilometers. Follow the pathway leading to PVP6+QHC, keeping an eye out for signposts and natural markers along the way. The walk will take about 1 hour.

  • Public Transport

    From the Dilijan bus station, take a minibus heading towards the outskirts of Dilijan. Inform the driver that you want to get off at the stop nearest to PVP6+QHC. The fare is approximately 200 AMD. From there, walk about 1 kilometer along the road towards the coordinates 40.736939, 44.861399.

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Discover more about King of the Forest

Nestled within the lush forests of Dilijan, Armenia, the King of the Forest stands as a unique testament to the region's rich cultural and natural heritage. This monumental tree sculpture, created in 1967 by renowned Armenian sculptor Ara Sargsian, is located in the vicinity of what was once Aghasi Khanjian's summer residence. Sargsian, inspired by a giant tree with outstretched branches, transformed it into a figure resembling a human embracing the forest. The sculpture embodies a forest deity, watching over the inhabitants and protecting them from evil spirits. Previously, in 1923, Sargsyan had created a wooden statue titled "Goatman," representing a divine figure from ancient Greek mythology associated with the forest. In 1967, he revisited and reimagined this work, giving it a new look and renaming it "King of the Forest." Visitors to the King of the Forest can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Dilijan National Park, exploring the surrounding hiking trails and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The site serves as a captivating oasis, blending history and nature in a memorable experience.

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