Matenadaran is a renowned research institute and museum located in the city of Yerevan, Armenia. The name Matenadaran is derived from the Armenian words "maten" meaning "manuscript" and "dar" meaning "house of". Therefore, Matenadaran is essentially a "house of manuscripts".
The institute is home to one of the largest collections of ancient manuscripts in the world, with over 23,000 manuscripts and 4,000 fragments dating back to the 5th century. The manuscripts cover a wide range of subjects including history, philosophy, literature, art, and science.
Matenadaran is not only a repository of ancient manuscripts but also a research center where scholars and researchers from all over the world come to study and conduct research. The institute has a vast library, a conservation laboratory, and a publishing house.
The museum section of Matenadaran is open to the public and showcases a selection of the most valuable and unique manuscripts. Visitors can see illuminated manuscripts, handwritten books, and scrolls, some of which are decorated with gold and precious stones. The museum also has interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the history of Armenian literature and culture.
Matenadaran is not just a museum or a research institute, but it is also a symbol of Armenian culture and identity. It is a place where the rich history and heritage of Armenia are preserved and celebrated.