A statue of the legendary chansonnier Charles Aznavour has been unveiled at Yerevan’s Aznavour Square. The sculpture, created by Davit Minasyan, was cast in Gyumri. The unveiling ceremony was attended by Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan, and French Ambassador to Armenia Olivier Decottignies.
Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan stressed that the placement of the statue, a project initiated and funded by the municipality, carries special significance, Radar Armenia reports.
“We considered it important for this statue to be located in the square named after Aznavour — a setting that symbolizes his constant presence in our city,” Avinyan said.
He noted that the statue not only commemorates a great artist but also symbolizes the Armenian people’s contribution to global culture.
“Today, in Charles Aznavour Square, we are unveiling a statue that commemorates not only a great artist but also the role of the Armenian people in shaping international cultures. Born in Paris to a family of Armenian refugees, Charles Aznavour became one of the world’s most recognized musical figures — with over 1,000 songs, numerous films, and a legacy spanning more than 90 countries. He was someone instantly recognized here without translation or explanation — and remains so to this day.
Throughout the 20th century, Aznavour was regarded as one of France’s most significant cultural icons — embodying the values of his generation, the memory of Genocide survivors, and the human language of art. It was important for us to ensure his symbolic, permanent presence in this square named in his honor. For our people and our country, Aznavour will always stand by Armenia — regardless of time or belief,” Avinyan said.
Nicolas Aznavour, son of Charles Aznavour and chairman of the Aznavour Foundation’s board of trustees, shared memories of his father’s deep connection to Armenia during the ceremony.
“My father was passionately in love with Armenia. This was evident not only in his words but also in his actions. He carried Armenia in his heart and represented it on every global platform. He believed in the strength, power, culture, and future of this country. That’s why he encouraged us — his family — to come, settle, and live here, to continue his involvement, his commitment, and bring his ideals to life.
This statue belongs to the entire Armenian people, and to all who loved and continue to love Aznavour around the world,” Nicolas Aznavour said.
He recalled how, during visits to Yerevan, his father preferred staying in the hotel adjacent to this square. “He loved to stand on the balcony and watch the vibrant, history-filled square,” he noted.
“It is very emotional to know that from today, Aznavour will be here forever — in this square,” he added.
The statue installation was initiated and fully funded by the Yerevan Municipality.
