The symbolic monument of Artsakh, “We Are Our Mountains”, is under threat of complete destruction: warning by the Ombudsman for Cultural Heritage of Artsakh

Alarm: The symbolic monument of Artsakh, “We Are Our Mountains,” is under threat of total destruction. This was reported by the Ombudsman for Cultural Heritage of Artsakh, Deputy Chairman of the “National” historical-cultural NGO, Hovik Avanesov.

“‘We Are Our Mountains,’ also known as ‘Grandmother and Grandfather’ (in Western Armenian: Mamik and Papik), is one of the most iconic monuments symbolizing Armenian identity, historical memory, and cultural heritage. It was created in 1967 by sculptor Sargis Baghdasaryan and architect Yuri Hakobyan. Carved from red tuff and about 9 meters high, the monument is installed on a hilltop, symbolizing the inseparable, kinship bond between the land of Artsakh and its people.

The sculpture depicts an elderly Artsakh Armenian couple in traditional attire, standing shoulder to shoulder with a proud and steadfast posture. It has no pedestal, as if it emerges directly from the earth, embodying the deep roots of the people and their inseparable connection to their homeland. It is no coincidence that this work has also received high international recognition, being presented at a prestigious exhibition in the Italian city of Carrara and recognized as a value of world cultural heritage.

However, the history of the monument is not limited to cultural achievements. Even during Soviet times, it faced political resistance, particularly from the leadership of Soviet Azerbaijan. Despite these pressures, the monument was erected, becoming not only a work of art but also a symbol of resistance.

On September 19, 2023, following large-scale military actions launched against Artsakh by the Turkish-Azerbaijani tandem and the subsequent full occupation of Artsakh and forced displacement of its Armenian population, just days later—on September 29, the day of the capture of Stepanakert—Azerbaijani forces placed the Azerbaijani flag on the monument, demonstratively violating its historical and cultural significance.

In November 2024, photos and videos circulated on social media documented new acts of vandalism: damage was recorded on both the front and back sides of the monument, along with anti-Armenian and offensive inscriptions. The surrounding area of the monument was also damaged. At the same time, statements about the complete destruction of the monument are actively circulating in both official and unofficial Azerbaijani circles.

It is noteworthy that a similar scenario has already been applied to the St. Hakob Church of Stepanakert and the Holy Mother of God Cathedral, whose destruction was preceded by similar propaganda publications. This raises serious concern that the ‘We Are Our Mountains’ monument faces the same fate,” he wrote.