Sanahin, Zvartnost to be restored in Armenia

Among Armenia's historical monuments, Surb Gevorg and Sanahin are in the gravest situation, Doctor of History Ashot Piliposyan, Science Director, Monument Restoration Center, told journalists, referring to an opinion by a special government commission.

Under the Armenian government's decision of 1998 the Sanahin monastery was placed under the jurisdiction of Holy Echmiadzin. However, the Armenian Ministry of Culture was to exercise control over the monastery.

In cooperation with the Government, the Center elaborated a restoration and preservation program for 26 monuments. Piliposyan said that serious work is to be carried out soon at the Zvartnots temple, Metsamor archeological reserve and Sanahin monastery.

"You know that Sanahin is in the UNESCO World Heritage List, and we are most careful about it" Doctor of History, Professor Hakob Simonyan told journalists.

Experts from New York University visited Metsamor a fortnight ago and prepared a research program. Also, under an agreement, a presentation is to be held at New York University, and an illustrated book is to be published, Prof. Piliposyan said.