Monument to the Friendship Between the Estonian and Armenian Peoples

The Monument to the Friendship between the Estonian and Armenian Peoples in Tartu is located on Vabaduse Boulevard. The monument is crafted in a traditional Caucasian style, with inscriptions about the significance of the monument in Estonian and Armenian on its sides. In Armenian tradition, such monuments are called khachkars.

The History of Tartu’s Khachkar

Since ancient times, Armenia has had a tradition of commemorating great people and significant historical events with monuments that feature a water source. It is thought that thirsty passersby will stop here, drink the clean water, and remember those to whom the monument is dedicated. Perhaps some of them will also pray for them. The Monument to the Friendship between the Estonian and Armenian Peoples in Tartu is built on the same principle.

Armenians hold in high regard those who have done much for their people. One such individual was Khachatur Abovyan (1809 – 1848), who studied at the University of Tartu from 1830 to 1836. He is considered the founder of Armenian literacy and is also celebrated as a humanist and enlightener of society. The monument was gifted to the city of Tartu in memory of him.

The memorial is made of tuff, a light, cemented rock. The monument was created by Armenian sculptor Hakob Jivanyan, who presented it to the residents of Tartu on the 130th anniversary of Khachatur Abovyan’s death. The gift was made on behalf of the residents of Gyumri (known as Leninakan in Soviet times) in 1978. The monument stands on a shady avenue, which also features monuments to other notable public figures and important historical events.

Photo Gallery

Location on the Map

Other Interesting Places

• Another monument in a similar style is located in Haapsalu. This is the monument to Anne Hedvig Büll, situated on the city’s popular promenade.
• Near Tartu’s khachkar, there is a sculpture of Kalevipoeg. This is a monument to those who fell in the War of Independence.
• Additionally, on Vabaduse Boulevard, there is the Tartu monument to Kreutzwald. And closer to the Town Hall Square on the same boulevard, stands a monument to Oskar Luts, an Estonian writer.