Biodiversity in Armenian Culture

The page is run by the project’s volunteers Armine Arshakyan and Kristina Baghdasaryan

Armenia’s rich biodiversity has left an indelible mark on the culture, beliefs, and traditions of its people for centuries. The diverse ecosystems of the Armenian Highlands—from forests to alpine meadows and mountain rivers—not only provided livelihoods but also shaped national identity.

Armenian folklore is rich with myths and tales about nature. In the epic of David of Sassoun and other legends, animals and plants often appear as symbols or helpers. The bear, the eagle, and other native animals have become symbols of bravery, wisdom, and strength.

In Armenian art and architecture, natural motifs hold a prominent place. In the patterns of khachkars (cross-stones), manuscript miniatures, and temple ornaments, depictions of local flora and fauna are often found. Motifs of pomegranate, grapevine, and wheat, which grow abundantly on Armenian soil, have become symbols of fertility and abundance.

The traditional way of life of Armenian rural communities has always been closely connected with nature. Since ancient times, Armenians have developed agricultural practices adapted to local natural conditions. This traditional knowledge has been passed down from generation to generation, ensuring a sustainable relationship between humans and nature.

In the Armenian calendar of holidays, many celebrations and rituals are dedicated to nature and its cycles. Vardavar, Ascension, and other festivals symbolize the rebirth of nature, fertility, and the connection between humans and the environment.

In modern Armenia, there is an increasing emphasis on the need for nature conservation and sustainable development. The preservation of Lake Sevan, the forests of Dilijan, and other biodiversity hotspots has become not only an environmental issue but also a cultural one, aimed at safeguarding national heritage.

Thus, in Armenian culture, biodiversity and ecosystems are not merely natural resources but an integral part of national identity, spiritual values, and historical memory.

Lions. Rock temple in Geghard

Lion in the decoration of the throne. Echmiadzin


Birds on the temple portal in Geghard


Eagles on the temple capitals in Zvartnots

Images of domestic animals and plants

Monument to David of Sasun in Yerevan

In progress…

Bird letters

https://barevarmenia.ru/tourinfo/chudo-armyanskogo-alfavita/
https://sarkissirakanyan.wixsite.com/sarkissirakanyan/alfavit-slovar
https://www.armmuseum.ru/news-blog/2022/9/7/-it-is-what-makes-armenia-different-armenian-alphabet#:~:text=%D0%9D%D0%B0%20%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%BE%D0%BC%20%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B5%20%D0%B1%D1%83%D0%BA%D0%B2%D1%8B%20%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%BC%D1%8F%D0%BD%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BE,%D0%B2%20%D0%A1%D0%BE%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D1%8B%D1%85%20%D0%A8%D1%82%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B0%D1%85%20%D0%B8%20%D0%9A%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B0%D0%B4%D0%B5.