Armenian PM: The open air hall of Moscow Cinema is an architectural
rather than cultural-historical value

2010-03-17 18:46:00

ArmInfo. We have consulted with experts and they have confirmed that
the open air hall of Moscow Cinema is an architectural rather than
cultural-historical value, Prime Minister of Armenia Tigran Sargsyan
said in the parliament today.

Not all of the buildings with good architecture are of cultural or
historical value and not all of them need state protection. "When
deciding to destroy the open air hall we kept in mind the positions of
the Armenian Apostolic Church and the owner of the territory. If the
parties show respect for each other’s positions, the discussion of
this issue may give positive results," Sargsyan said.

To remind, Moscow Cinema has been built in the place of destroyed
St.Peter and Paul Church, the oldest church of Yerevan (XV). The
Government is planning to build a new church in the place of the
cinema’s open air hall. The decision to destroy the hall has received
wide public response. Over 60 public figures have urged Prime Minister
Tigran Sargsyan to cancel the Government’s decision. Hayas
organization from Australia is collecting signatures in support of the
hall. Over 5,000 people have already stood up for the facility.
President of the Union of Architects of Armenia Mkrtich Minassyan says
that the Government did not consult with experts when adopting the
decision.