A renewed space dedicated to Armenia’s rich textile traditions has opened in Dilijan, marking an important moment for the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage. The Dilijan branch of the Hovhannes Sharambeyan Museum of Folk Art has been transformed into a specialized museum focusing on Armenian textile art from traditional carpets and embroidery to lace and historic fabrics that reflect centuries of craftsmanship.
The transformation of the museum was made possible through the reconstruction of its historic 1896 building, carried out with the support of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia. As part of a cooperation memorandum, the Green Rock Foundation contributed to the creation of the museum’s renewed and modernized exhibition, becoming an official Friend of the Museum.
The opening of the exhibition is especially symbolic, as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the birth of Hovhannes Sharambeyan, one of the most influential figures in Armenian cultural life and a passionate advocate for the preservation of folk art traditions.
Visitors to the museum can explore a diverse collection of Armenian textiles, including carpets, embroidery, and lace that represent different regions, techniques, and historical periods. The exhibition brings together items from the museum’s own collection, private holdings, and state cultural funds, creating a rich narrative of Armenia’s textile heritage.
Reflecting on the initiative, Katya Bredikhina, Head of the Green Rock Foundation, emphasized the broader significance of the project:
“For us, preserving cultural heritage is not only about caring for the past, but also investing in the future of communities. The Armenian Textile Museum in Dilijan is a project deeply rooted in tradition while looking toward modern cultural development and sustainable community life.”