“Temple of Lights”: New Illumination System Unveiled at Zvartnots Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum

YEREVAN — The Zvartnots Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum has officially launched a new artistic lighting system.

The new illumination was unveiled during a cultural event titled “Temple of Lights,” symbolically connecting the past and present of one of Armenia’s most remarkable historical monuments, according to the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports.

Among those attending the ceremony were Minister Zhanna Andreasyan, Deputy Minister Alfred Kocharyan, and numerous invited guests.

Specialists worked on the Zvartnots lighting project for nearly three years. The project was implemented by the ministry’s Service for the Protection of Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museums and Historical Environment. The total budget amounted to 26.2 million drams, including 19.8 million drams from the state budget and 6.4 million drams from the institution’s own funds.

Armen Hovhannisyan, director of the preservation service, noted that approximately 170 million drams in state investment has been made at the Zvartnots site over the past three years. Improvements have included the complete replacement of paving stones, upgrades to the irrigation system, restoration of the historic threshing floor, repairs to the museum building’s roof, and the implementation of the lighting project, with additional works planned.

According to Hovhannisyan, these investments are aimed at preserving and promoting the monument. Visitor numbers increased by nearly 15 percent during the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.

The event featured innovative lighting displays, installations, and animations that showcased the rich history of the Zvartnots Temple. A concert was also held, featuring live jazz music.