Dragon Stones Come Alive for a New Generation: The “Guardians of the Dragon Stones” Educational Campaign Has Begun

The Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography (IAE) of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, the NGO Culture as a Factor, and the OnOff Animation Studio have launched a series of regional events as part of the educational and cultural project “Guardians of the Dragon Stones.”

Following the official premiere held on May 27 at the Moscow Cinema in Yerevan, the project's scientific and creative team has already visited the communities of Armavir, Hrazdan, Charentsavan, Yeghvard, and Abovyan.

What is the Institute’s role? As the country's leading scientific center in the field, the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography provides the project's academic foundation and ensures its scientific accuracy. With the guidance of our specialists, all information about the dragon stones has been aligned with the latest archaeological excavation data. Through interactive talks led by the Director of the Institute, Arsen Bobokhyan, young participants gain archaeological knowledge and become informed guardians of our cultural heritage.

What to expect at each event:

• Screening of the animated short film “The Dragon and Vahagn”, based on Artavazd Yeghiazaryan’s book The Secret of the Dragon Stone.
• An interactive scientific talk on the mysteries of the dragon stones and the latest archaeological discoveries with Arsen Bobokhyan.
• Presentation of a brand-new song specially composed for the project by the band Tiezerk.
• Educational gift: Every young participant will receive the project's special interactive booklet.

Upcoming schedule:

???? June 11 – Ashtarak and Aparan

???? June 16 – Sevan and Gavar

???? June 18 – Etchmiadzin

Special prize for active participants

After the completion of the regional meetings, three interactive digital quests will be launched on social media platforms. Participants achieving the best results will have the opportunity to join an exclusive one-day scientific expedition to visit real dragon stones under the guidance of professional archaeologists.

Admission is free, but due to limited seating, advance registration is required.

The registration link and additional details are available in the comments.

Registration link:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetH5yfAOjdXKM0OjvBMMUfvG5cKde0mkv0WHYvjlyxsqP8SA/viewform

The project is implemented with the support of the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation and the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Armenia. The production of the film screened within the framework of the project was also supported by the Armenian Film Foundation.