It was implemented within the framework of cooperation between the Ijevan branch of YSU, the University of Salzburg (Austria) and the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia.

The following speakers delivered speeches during the international symposium:

• J. Dum-Tragut (Center for Studies of the Christian East, University of Salzburg, author and initiator of the “Arakelots Monastery and Settlement” project),

• H. Abrahamyan (Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, member of the “Interdisciplinary Studies of Armenian Cultural Heritage” program, head of excavations),

• A. Papoyan (Research Center for the Restoration of Frescoes),

• G. Harutyunyan (Identity Foundation),

• The Europa Nostra delegation.

J. Dum-Tragut presented the “Arakelots Monastery and Settlement” project and future visions.

H. Abrahamyan touched upon the preliminary results of the excavations. It should be noted that the excavations of the Arakelots Monastery Complex started on April 8 and will last until April 23.

A. Papoyan presented the monastery’s frescoes, conservation and restoration issues.

G. Harutyunyan conducted a film viewing and discussion.

The Europa Nostra delegation presented the organization’s policy and vision in the field of cultural heritage preservation.

At the end, the symposium organizers thanked the YSU IB leadership for the warm welcome, all participants, speakers and guests for their active involvement, and meaningful discussions.