SQUARES AND PARKS
FREEDOM SQUARE
1924–1939
The square is located in the
area bounded by Tumanyan and Teryan Streets, as well as Mesrop Mashtots and
Sayat-Nova Avenues, along the axis formed by Northern Avenue and its
continuation, near the Alexander Spendiaryan National Academic Theatre of Opera
and Ballet.
Between 1924 and 1936, the
square complex was designed by Alexander Tamanyan, the founder of modern
Armenian architecture. It was created simultaneously with the construction of
the theatre building and during the Soviet period was known as Theatre Square.
In 1991, it was renamed Freedom Square in connection with the rise of the
Armenian national liberation movement and the Artsakh movement.
In 1957, on the theatre side of
the square, monuments were installed dedicated to the renowned Armenian poet
Hovhannes Tumanyan (architect: Grigor Aghababyan, sculptor: Ara Sargsyan) and
composer Alexander Spendiaryan (architects: Grigor Aghababyan, Fenix Darbinyan;
sculptors: Ara Sargsyan, Ghukas Chubaryan).
The grave of Alexander
Spendiaryan is located in the park surrounding the square.
Since 1988, the square has
hosted nationwide gatherings and demonstrations, as well as various cultural
events, concerts, and other public activities.
Freedom Square is one of the
most beloved places for Yerevan residents and visitors to the capital,
surrounded by green areas and cafés.