Candle Light Vigil To The Armenian Genocide Memorial. Dusk was settling in over Yerevan Opera Theatre. Two giant flags were handled by dozens of uniformed youth. Thousands of people, many clutching torches or candles, had gathered to commemorate the victims of the Armenian Genocide in 1915. Over 1.5 million Armenians were slaughtered in the first genocide of the 20th century. The Armenians were Christian citizens who lived in the Ottoman Empire, current day Turkey.
Throughout the world, Armenians gather and honor on April 24th to remember their ancestors who perished. In Yerevan, hundreds of thousands of people pay their respects at the Armenian Genocide Memorial known as Tsitsernakaberd.
On April 23, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Youth organize a candle light vigil that will end at the Armenian Genocide Memorial at Tsitsernakaberd. Thousands march the 5 km walk throughout the city. The flags of both Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) are stretched and carried by dozens on its journey to Tsitsernakaberd. Young and old march, some solemnly, some breaking out in song. Torches and candles light the way, as the thousands overtake the streets. A priest and towering cross lead the procession.
How to get around in Yerevan? Check out this taxi guide.
After approximately an hour, the procession arrives at the Armenian Genocide Memorial. The group enters the center of the memorial to places flowers near the eternal flame and say a prayer. A nearly full moon hovers over the memorial. Candle Light Vigil To The Armenian Genocide Memorial.
Check out my visit on April 24th to the Armenian Genocide Memorial. Thanks for reading my visit on Candle Light Vigil To The Armenian Genocide Memorial.
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I was at the march last year and it was an unforgettable experience. Even if I’m not of Armenian origins I couldn’t be any more prouder to be part of the centennial in Yerevan.
We are all Armenians on April 24th. I am glad you got to share in that experience. It is a special day.
Unbelievable that this is still denied by Turkey over 100 years later. The Armenians are lovely people. I went in September 2014 and it coincided with their Independence Day party. Great fun!
I agree, it is a crime against humanity.
I agree, it is a crime against humanity. Glad you enjoyed your trip to Armenia!
1,500,000 Armenians were slaughtered.
1,500,000! And that was during the early part of the 20th century. Tragic.
all true stats
[…] to those who perished at the hands of the Turks. Yet on April 24th, the day of remembrance for the Armenian Genocide, is a day of solemn reflection. Many gather in the center of Yerevan near the Opera Theater built […]