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Field trips to historical and cultural monuments in Kotayk and Gegharkunik provinces were organized for participants in the “Culture and Nature” forum held within the framework of the 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.
The Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport said in a press release that the purpose of the visits was to introduce participants to Armenia’s cultural heritage and demonstrate its connection with biodiversity, nature and environmental protection.
Delegates and participants in the “Culture and Nature” forum visited Geghard Monastery, Garni Temple and the Symphony of Stones natural monument. Near Garni Temple, the Masunk traditional song and dance ensemble performed traditional songs and dances expressing the Armenian people’s cultural ties with nature.
An exhibition and sale of local products were also organized, with the participation of the Hovhannes Sharambeyan Museum of Folk Arts, the Teryan Cultural Center, local producers and artisans.
Participants then visited the Norashen Reserve in Sevan National Park, where they learned about the biological significance of Lake Sevan and the area’s rich biodiversity. At the Sevan Botanical Garden, guests were introduced to plant species growing in the area and adapted to local conditions, including species listed in Armenia’s Red Book.
At the pavilion area in the city of Sevan, the delegates had the opportunity to discover the works and products of local creators. The Armenian Cookery Traditions Development and Protection NGO presented Armenia’s culinary heritage through a demonstration of how a traditional dish is prepared. The program continued at the Sevan Cultural Center with a screening of the documentary film “People of the Lake: Sevan’s Fishermen.”
Filmed by the Sevan Youth Club NGO with the support of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Armenia, the documentary explores Sevan’s fishing culture, fishermen’s memories and their connection to the lake. The screening was followed by a discussion with the film’s subjects, Sevan’s fishermen, and concluded with a concert by the GAMMA Band.
The day’s cultural program continued at the Bohem art studio and tea house, where guests were served “Sevan tea,” made from local plant species, and took part in a creative workshop.