A Presentation of the Book “The Fortresses of Syunik: 9th–14th Centuries” Was Held at the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography.

n 24 June, the Library of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia hosted the presentation of an important scholarly publication. In 2026, architect Ara Zarian's comprehensive and richly illustrated monograph, The Fortresses of Syunik: 9th–14th Centuries, comprising 86 printer's sheets, was published in an edition of 150 copies.

The volume is devoted to the medieval fortresses of the historical province of Syunik in Greater Armenia. It was published upon the recommendation of the Academic Council of the Alexander Tamanyan National Museum-Institute of Architecture and issued by the AGBU Vahram Abtalian Cultural Foundation. The foreword was written by Professor Ashot Haykazun Grigoryan, Doctor of Architecture.

The publication consists of a foreword, the author's preface, and six main chapters that provide a comprehensive examination of the medieval fortresses and fortified architectural heritage of Syunik.

The presentation was attended by staff members from various departments of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography, as well as numerous invited guests. The audience was welcomed by the Institute's Director, Arsen Bobokhyan, Doctor of Historical Sciences. Emphasizing the scholarly and cultural significance of the monograph, he outlined the author's professional career and expressed his appreciation for Ara Zarian's many years of dedicated work.

The author also addressed the audience, noting that his interest in the fortresses of Syunik dates back to his student years at the Yerevan Polytechnic Institute, inspired and encouraged by his late father, the architect Armen Zarian. T

he presentation concluded with a question-and-answer session and an engaging discussion, during which participants had the opportunity to address both the contents of the volume and current issues in the study of Syunik's fortified architectural heritage.