Major discoveries from Armenia’s 2025 archaeological season were unveiled on March 24, 2026, shedding new light on the region’s deep past.
At the center of attention was a newly identified Neolithic settlement in Yerevan’s Silikyan district. Led by archaeologist Hakob Simonyan, excavations uncovered an architectural complex of approximately 34 stone-built rooms, along with tools from a developed stone industry. Researchers believe this may be the oldest known settlement in the area, dating back around 15,000 years.
Equally significant were findings from the extensive “Ghrer” burial field spanning the Aragatsotn and Armavir regions. Covering roughly 300 hectares near sites such as Voskehat and Aghavnatun, the area includes burials from the Chalcolithic, Early and Late Bronze Age, and the Hellenistic period. Excavations conducted between June and November 2025 yielded a wide range of artifacts, including clay vessels, bronze daggers, gold and carnelian beads, a silver coin, ritual objects and obsidian tools. In total, more than 80 sites were studied, including over 60 burials, ritual structures and a section of an ancient roadway.
Research also highlighted early medieval rock-cut Christian complexes in the Kasakh Gorge, located between Hovhannavank and Saghmosavank. The area is rich in spiritual and architectural heritage, featuring sites such as the Red Monastery, the Hermitage of Gregory the Illuminator, and newly documented cave structures.
At Lori Fortress near Stepanavan, rescue excavations revealed new details about the medieval city. Archaeologists uncovered sections of a bathhouse overlooking the Dzoraget Gorge, complete with water systems, as well as a paved roadway constructed from reused stone fragments. Among the notable finds were fragments of a rare decorative tile depicting a peacock, which are now set for restoration.
The presentation brought together archaeologists, architects and researchers, sparking discussion on preservation and ongoing restoration efforts. Armenia’s past continues to emerge through systematic study and excavation.
