“Saryan Steps”: A New Urban Space in Yerevan

The renovation and transformation of the steps on Saryan Street, leading to the Composers’ Union, along with the adjacent area, has been completed. The project was implemented through the cooperation of the administrative district of Kentron, the Keron Development Foundation, and Mane Tiles company.

On September 29, at 18:30, the opening ceremony of the “Saryan Steps” took place. The event began with welcoming remarks from Petros Petoyan, the administrative district of Kentron; Vanane Ararktsyan, Executive Director of the Keron Development Foundation; and Anzhela Manukyan, Executive Director of Mane Tiles. The representatives of the three parties then cut the symbolic red ribbon together, after which the Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra gave a surprise live performance right on the steps, creating a festive atmosphere and offering unforgettable moments to guests, participants, and passersby.

The “Saryan Steps” project was launched in June 2024 with the goal of transforming this part of Yerevan into a vibrant public space. Reflecting the artistic heritage of Martiros Saryan, it has become another renovated urban area for residents and visitors of the city.

From the very beginning, Mane Tiles initiated a unique concept for the project by fully reproducing Martiros Saryan’s “Armenia” painting, crafted from 1,620 handmade ceramic tiles. The Mane Tiles team developed a special tile format, ensured the production and technological processes, and carried out installation and precise adaptation to the steps.

Thanks to the efforts of the Keron Development Foundation, the sidewalk adjacent to the steps, previously used as a parking spot, was fully returned to pedestrians. New lighting systems were installed; all basalt tiles on the four platforms of the steps and the sidewalk were replaced; additional decorative lighting was added; the railings were renovated; and the side tiles underwent laser polishing. The project also included landscaping of the surrounding area and the full renovation of the small park at the top of the steps.

As a result, the “Saryan Steps” have been transformed into a modern, comfortable public space, becoming a favorite destination for both locals and tourists – creating a new urban environment where people can meet friends, relax, take photos, and simply enjoy the rhythm of the city.

During the ceremony, the Mane Tiles team also assembled a mosaic of this section of Saryan Street, made up of 100 handmade ceramic tiles, and presented it as a gift to the Martiros Sarian House-Museum. Among the attendees was also Martiros Saryan’s granddaughter, Ruzan Saryan.