His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Visits the Armenian Heritage Walk
- kyle3934
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 17 hours ago
During his visit, His Eminence strolled the Walk and took in the many thoughtful details carefully woven into the design. He admired the more than 60 boulders procured from Armenia that line both sides of the walkway, each distinct in color, size, and geometry, and meticulously positioned.
Architect Simon Koumjian III explained the biblical significance behind many of the site’s design elements, including the boulder wall known as Abstract Ararat. Landscape designer Ned Moore described how the plantings and trees throughout the site reflect species found in Armenia and how the landscape will evolve and bloom throughout the seasons. His Eminence was also impressed by the lighting design presented by contractor David Hoplamazian from Mayfield Site Contractors, which includes a continuous illuminated channel along both sides of the walkway curbing, spotlights beneath each tree, and focused lighting on the Young Meher statue.
Finally, Armenian Heritage Walk Board Members Mike Santerian and Steve Barsamian shared plans for future commissioned artworks celebrating Armenian heritage, to be installed in five pre-designated locations throughout the site.
Reflecting on the experience, His Eminence shared:
“I feel so proud that I made this visit to the Armenian Heritage Walk. I’m deeply impressed because there are so many details which come not only from the mind of the architect, but also from the heart. It’s filled with love. It’s filled with vision.”
Although the day was bitterly cold, the visit was warmed by a profound sense of unity, along with the heartfelt words and blessing offered by His Eminence.
He continued:
“This is indeed not a job, but a mission. It’s a sacred mission… God saw that it was good. I say that whatever you are doing is indeed great, with a capital ‘G.’!”
The tour concluded with Armenian Heritage Walk Board Member Kurk Selverian expressing his deep appreciation for His Eminence’s support of the project and for taking the time from his busy schedule to visit the site. Kurk shared that the inspiration for the Armenian Heritage Walk comes from the legacy of those who came before us and emphasized the profound gratitude the Armenian people hold for the United States of America. He added, “While the Armenian Heritage Walk is located in Philadelphia, it is a project the entire Armenian community across the nation can take pride in.”
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