For the second time, Azerbaijani state television has broadcast footage identifying the historic Harichavank Monastery in Armenia’s Shirak region as part of what it terms “Western Azerbaijan” cultural heritage. The program reportedly presents the medieval complex as Albanian religious heritage while omitting its Armenian origins.
The broadcast has drawn criticism from Armenian observers who characterize it as part of a systematic campaign to deny Armenian historical presence in the region. Critics argue such presentations distort historical facts and represent ongoing efforts to undermine Armenian cultural heritage claims.
The monastery complex, dating to the early medieval period, has long been recognized as a significant center of Armenian Apostolic Christianity. Historical records indicate it served not only as a spiritual hub but also as an important educational and cultural institution for Armenian civilization.
This latest broadcast follows similar previous programming that has drawn international concern from cultural heritage preservation advocates.
