“We are our mountains” monument, which is also known as “Grandfather and Grandfather” (Mamik and Papik in Western Armenian), is one of the symbolic monuments of Armenian identity, historical memory and cultural heritage. It was created in 1967 by sculptor Sargis Baghdasaryan and architect Yuri Hakobyan. This monument, made of red tuff, with a height of about 9 meters, is placed on the top of the hill, symbolizing the inseparable blood relation between Artsakh land and people.
The sculpture represents elderly Artsakh spouses in traditional costumes, standing shoulder to shoulder, with a proud and steadfast attitude. It does not have a pedestal, it seems to come from the soil itself, embodying the deep roots of the people and the inseparable connection with the motherland. It is no coincidence that this work has also received high praise on international platforms, being presented at a prestigious exhibition organized in the Italian city of Carrara and being recognized as a world cultural asset.
However, the history of the monument is not limited only to cultural achievements. Back in the Soviet years, it faced political resistance in the face of open opposition from the leadership of Soviet Azerbaijan. Despite these pressures, the monument was erected, becoming a symbol not only of art, but also of resistance.
On September 19, 2023, just days after the large-scale military operations unleashed against Artsakh by the Turkish-Azerbaijani terrorist tandem and the subsequent complete occupation of Artsakh and the forced displacement of Artsakh Armenians, on September 29, the Azerbaijani forces placed the Azerbaijani flag on the monument on the day of the occupation of Stepanakert, demonstrably violating its historical and cultural significance.
In November 2024, photos and videos shared on social networks documented new cases of vandalism. damages and Armenian-hating, insulting writings were recorded in both the front and back parts of the monument. The surroundings of the monument were also damaged. At the same time, announcements regarding the complete destruction of the monument are actively circulating in the official and unofficial circles of Azerbaijan.
It is noteworthy that a similar scenario has already been applied to St. Jacob’s Church in Stepanakert and St. Astvamor Hovanu’s Cathedral, whose destruction was preceded by propaganda publications with the same content. This circumstance raises serious concern that the “We Are Our Mountains” monument faces the same fate.
Hovik AVANESOV
Artsakh cultural heritage ombudsman, vice president of “Azkayin” historical and cultural NGO
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