[Matenadaran | Yerevan "The fountain of human knowledge resting in the fortress of ancient manuscripts"]

[Matenadaran | Yerevan "Fountain of human knowledge resting in the fortress of ancient manuscripts"]

— A sturdy stone structure towering overhead. Once inside, the world of ancient manuscripts that have been spinning for over a thousand years quietly lives on —

Matenadaran is a research institute and museum of ancient manuscripts completed in 1959. A stone statue of founder Mesrop Mashtots (who invented the Armenian alphabet) prays at the entrance, and it is one of the world's largest collections of manuscripts and parchments, with approximately 23,000 manuscripts and parchments stored in it .

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📍[Location]
53 Mashtots Street, at the foot of the hill a little north of the old town. Conveniently accessible within walking distance of the subway station ().

🕰️[Visiting times]
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 21:00. If you visit during the day, the shadows of the stone architecture and the colors of the ancient manuscripts are beautifully enveloped in a calming light.

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✨Recommended points
• The world's largest collection of Armenian manuscripts. Approximately 23,000 items are lined up, and manuscripts from the 5th century to the Middle Ages are particularly valuable .
• Some are written in multiple languages, such as Greek, Arabic, and Persian, and you can feel the history of cultural exchange .
• You will be captivated by the artistic illuminated manuscripts and intricate miniatures (illustrated paintings). There is also an exhibition of restoration techniques, so you can see the craftsmanship up close
• The building has a heavy feel like a "fortress of knowledge." The Mashtots statue at the entrance welcomes you like a guide on your journey .

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🎒Tips and advice
• The building is quiet, so you can enjoy the beauty of the manuscripts while maintaining a sacred atmosphere! • It's interesting to take a guided tour (in English or other languages) to learn more about the historical background of the manuscripts and the story behind their restoration.
• There are areas where you can take photos, so don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone. 📸
• The museum shop also has replica manuscripts and postcards, so they're great souvenirs. ♪

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