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Matenadaran: Armenia's Treasury of Manuscripts

Explore Armenia's Matenadaran, a world-renowned manuscript library and museum, showcasing the nation's rich history, culture, and literary traditions.

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The Matenadaran, officially the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, stands as a testament to Armenia's rich cultural and intellectual heritage. Located in Yerevan, it houses one of the world's largest collections of Armenian manuscripts, showcasing centuries of history, science, and art. Visitors can explore ancient texts and marvel at the intricate artistry of medieval bookmaking.

A brief summary to Matenadaran

Local tips

  • Photography inside may require an additional fee, so inquire at the ticket counter.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the manuscripts.
  • Visit on the last Saturday of the month for free admission if you are a citizen of Armenia.
  • Check the working hours in advance, as they may vary, and note that the museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Yerevan Opera Theater (Freedom Square), walk north along Mashtots Avenue. The Matenadaran is located at the upper end of the avenue, approximately a 15-20 minute walk. The route is straightforward and offers views of Yerevan's architecture. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Republic Square, take bus numbers 26, 27, 33, or 63 towards Mashtots Avenue. Alight near the Matenadaran. Alternatively, take the Yerevan Metro to Marshal Baghramyan station, from where it is a 10-minute walk to the Matenadaran. A single ride on public transport costs AMD 100.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Yerevan. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Republic Square) to the Matenadaran typically costs between AMD 800-1200, depending on traffic and the taxi company. Ride-sharing services like GG Taxi and Yandex Taxi are also available.

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Discover more about Matenadaran

The Matenadaran, named in honor of Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet, is more than just a museum; it's a research institute and a repository of national memory. Its collection, dating back to the 5th century, includes over 20,000 manuscripts and 300,000 documents in Armenian and other languages, such as Greek, Arabic, Persian, and Latin. These manuscripts cover a wide range of subjects, including history, geography, philosophy, medicine, and art, providing invaluable insights into the medieval world. The institute was formally established in 1959, though its roots trace back to the 5th century. The current building, designed by Mark Grigoryan, opened in 1957 and is adorned with statues of prominent Armenian figures. A new building, designed by Arthur Meschian, was added in 2011 to accommodate the growing collection. Inside, visitors can view not only the manuscripts themselves, but also mosaics and frescoes depicting important moments in Armenian history. The Matenadaran's collection includes the Etchmiadzin Gospel, dating back to the 6th-7th centuries, and the Homilies of Mush, a massive 28kg manuscript. The institute continues to collect, restore, and digitize manuscripts, ensuring that Armenia's intellectual heritage is preserved for future generations. It also serves as a research center, studying Armenian writing, textology, and medieval book painting. A visit to the Matenadaran offers a unique opportunity to connect with Armenia's past and appreciate the enduring power of the written word.

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