Matenadaran, also known as the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, is a research institute and museum in Yerevan, Armenia, dedicated to the study and preservation of Armenian manuscripts. The institute was founded in 1959 and named after the creator of the Armenian alphabet, Mesrop Mashtots.
Matenadaran houses over 17,000 manuscripts and other historical documents, including illuminated manuscripts, medieval chronicles, and medical texts. The collection includes works from the 5th century to the 19th century, and it is considered one of the largest collections of Armenian manuscripts in the world.
In addition to its vast collection of manuscripts, Matenadaran also features exhibitions that explore the history and culture of Armenia. These exhibits cover a range of topics, including art, literature, and religious traditions. The museum also offers lectures, conferences, and educational programs for students and scholars.
Matenadaran is an important cultural institution in Armenia and has contributed significantly to the preservation and dissemination of Armenian cultural heritage.