This postcard, issued in 1987, features the Erebuni Museum in Yerevan, a key cultural and historical site in Armenia dedicated to the ancient Urartian civilization.
What is shown on the postcard
The postcard depicts the main building of the Erebuni Museum, rendered in reddish tones, likely from tuff stone characteristic of Armenian architecture. The facade is adorned with massive bas-reliefs: a stylized face, possibly a deity or king, and a long frieze featuring figures that allude to Urartian culture. The building is elevated on a stone-clad base, with wide staircases leading up to the entrance. Well-maintained green landscaping with shrubs and potted flowers surrounds the museum. Several visitors are seen on the pathways and stairs. The word “EREVAN” is prominently displayed in the upper left corner of the postcard.
Historical note
The Erebuni Museum was inaugurated in 1968, coinciding with the 2750th anniversary of Yerevan’s founding. It is situated at the foot of Arin Berd hill, where the fortress-city of Erebuni was established in 782 BC by Urartian King Argishti I. The museum building was designed by architects Shmavon Azatyan and Baghdasar Arzumanyan, with the facade’s bas-reliefs sculpted by Ara Harutyunyan. The museum houses thousands of archaeological finds unearthed during excavations of the Erebuni and Teishebaini (Karmir Blur) fortresses, testifying to the rich history of the Urartian Kingdom and the origins of Yerevan.
Present day
Today, the Erebuni Museum continues its operations as a significant archaeological and historical center. It is home to an extensive collection of artifacts, including cuneiform tablets, weapons, pottery, jewelry, and household items, which allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the Urartian civilization and its impact on the region. The museum remains an important educational and cultural platform, attracting both local residents and tourists from around the world.
Location (map)
Address: 38 Erebuni St, Yerevan 0021, Armenia
Coordinates: 40.141528, 44.519944
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Identified by the museum’s name and its depiction.
Questions and answers
- In what year was the Erebuni Museum opened? The Erebuni Museum was opened in 1968.
- Who were the architects of the Erebuni Museum? The museum building was designed by architects Shmavon Azatyan and Baghdasar Arzumanyan.
- What kind of exhibits are housed in the Erebuni Museum? The museum houses thousands of archaeological finds, including cuneiform tablets, weapons, pottery, jewelry, and household items, discovered during excavations of the Erebuni and Teishebaini fortresses.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Yerevan from 1987.
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