Those Who Know Them Best Esteem Them Most Highly.

History. Armenians, an ancient civilisation whose history is long, complex, and in many ways epic and heroic. The descendants of Aram the Brave and Haik the forefather and establisher of the first Armenian kingdom in third millennium BC. A nation who had Kings, Royal dynasties and a widespread Armenian empire since the first century BC. under King Tigran II the Great.

Religion. Armenians are the first nation to adopt Christianity as the official religion of the state (301 A.D.). Armenians created a rich and a colourful culture, alphabet and a socioeconomic structure that has allowed them to preserve their distinct way of life.

National Identity. The Armenian national identity is essentially a cultural one. From the historical depths of its culture and the dispersion of its bearers, it has acquired a richness and diversity rarely achieved within a single national entity, while keeping many fundamental elements that ensure its unity. Its bearers exhibit a strong sense of national identity. It is an identity strongly influenced by the historical experiences of the Armenians.

Literature. Armenians have a rich history of oral and written literature. During the nineteenth century, under the influence of a European interest in folklore and oral literature, a new movement started that led to the collection of oral epic poems, songs, myths, and stories.

Graphic Arts. Historically, Armenian art has been associated with architecture, bas-reliefs, stone engravings, steles, illuminated manuscripts, and tapestry. Since the Armenian Renaissance during the nineteenth century, interest in drawing, painting, sculpture, textiles, pottery, needlework, and lace has intensified. A new Armenian style of bright colors emerged in painting. An interest in landscape painting, rustic images, a focus on rural life, and ethnographic genre paintings were noticeable in Soviet Armenia. A national art gallery houses the works of Sarian, M. Avedissian, Hagopian, Soureniantz, and other artists.

Performance Arts. Armenia has a long tradition of musical art, dating back to prehistoric times, and Armenian musicians played a fundamental role in the modernization of oriental music during the nineteenth century. Armenian traditional music differs from its oriental counterparts by its sobriety.
The opera house, the theaters, and the concert halls are the pride of Armenians and have remained highly accessible to the general public. Armenian folk, classic, and religious music, as well as its composers, such as Komitas and A. Khatchadourian, have been known throughout the world.

Etiquette. Armenians put great emphasis on hospitality and generosity. There is also an emphasis on respect for guests.