Days of European Archaeology 2024

From June 14 to 16, 2024, the State Non-Commercial Organization “Scientific Research Center of Historical and Cultural Heritage” presented interesting and educational programs within the framework of the “Days of European Archaeology” held in Armenia under the coordination of the Ministry of ESCS of the Republic of Armenia.
Within the framework of that event, on June 16, the Scientific Research Center of Historical and Cultural Heritage initiated the cleaning of the area of Artashavan St. Tadevos Church (13th century) and rearrangement and numbering of the stones of the demolished bell tower, in which specialists, archaeologists and just curious and caring citizens participated.
Those present also expressed their willingness to participate in the further restoration and preservation of the monument.
Special thanks to Ara Khzmalyan, director of Matenadaran, for joining us and supporting us.
The Church of St. Apostle Tadevos in Artashavan is located in the eastern part of the village, on the right edge of the Arjut river gorge. The church dates back to the 13th century and was rebuilt in the late Middle Ages. It is a three-nave basilica with a rectangular plan from the outside. The inner space is divided into 3 naves by 2 rows of 3 columns, the middle of which ends in the east with a semicircular altar, and the outer ones with rectangular sacristies. The bases of two opposite eastern columns have been preserved. The church had two entrances: from the west and from the south.
It is in ruins, the eastern wall and parts of the foundations of the western, northern and southern walls have been preserved. The altar has a preserved belfry with six columns and a hood-shaped roof. It was built of black and red tuff with lime mortar.
The church was destroyed in 1679, 1827 and 1840 by earthquakes. During the earthquake of 1679, the walls and roof of the church became dilapidated, and in 1827 it finally collapsed.