Armenian government to allocate funds for excavations of Arshakuni dynasty sepulcher

Prime Minister of Armenia Hovik Abrahamyan visited on July 28 Aghzk community (former Dzorap) in Aragatsotn province to familiarize himself with the process of archeological excavations in the village.

The government press office said that excavations were carried out in the area in the past, but they were left unfinished, and after the PM made a visit to Aghzk last year and saw the 4th century buildings such as a chapel, a basilica and the sepulcher of the kings of the Arshakuni dynasty,   he promised to allocate funds and gave instructions about the resumption of archeological work.

The archeological team head Hakob Simonyan informed the prime minister about the results of work done in the first stage, the remains found at the site, and the archeological team’s proposals regarding the next stages.

Hovik Abrahamyan said the preservation of historical and cultural heritage is in the focus of the attention of the government that will continue providing funds for the completion of excavations.

Armenian Minister of Culture Hasmik Poghosyan said for her part  that on the instructions of PM Abrahamyan, a program on the development of archeology was drafted and submitted to the government. She said the program has important scientific and educational goals as it is aimed at selecting  the most significant monument and site in every region in order to implement educational and tourist projects.