King of the Forest to become favorite destination for visitors to Dilijan
One of Dilijan’s symbols—the unique tree sculpture “King of the Forest”—now features an information plaque, and through QR codes visitors can learn not only the audio story of its creation, but also about the work of sculptor Ara Sargsyan. The initiative was undertaken by the “Sareer” cultural NGO and the Ara Sargsyan House-Museum Support Foundation. The project was implemented with the support of “Green Rock”.
The installation of the information plaque marks an important step toward preserving the city’s cultural heritage and enhancing its tourism appeal. This unique work of art, long regarded as one of Dilijan’s defining symbols, is now presented to the public in a renewed format, highlighting its historical, cultural, and artistic significance.
The “King of the Forest” is a unique creation by Ara Sargsyan, installed directly on a living tree among its branches in Dilijan. It is a rare example of the harmonious fusion of art and nature, where the sculpture appears to become part of the forest itself. Made of fired chamotte, it has endured rain, snow, and wind for nearly 60 years, remaining a living symbol of Dilijan’s spirit and a testament to the artist’s deep respect for nature, said Anna Sargsyan, Director of the Ara Sargsyan House-Museum, founder of the House-Museum Support Foundation, and the sculptor’s granddaughter, during the opening ceremony.
The “King of the Forest” is an exceptional example of the intertwining of nature and art, reflecting the spirit and identity of Dilijan’s landscape. The information plaque provides visitors with a more comprehensive understanding of the sculpture’s history, its conceptual significance, and its role in shaping the city’s cultural memory. The initiative is aimed not only at preserving artistic heritage but also at promoting cultural tourism.
According to Erna Revazova, founder and president of the “Sareer” cultural NGO, we often fail to realize how many treasures are hidden in Armenia’s picturesque corners and how deeply artists have loved and been inspired by their homeland.
The “King of the Forest” is a vivid example of this approach. Once a symbol and guardian of Dilijan’s refreshing forests, the sculpture was unjustly forgotten. Today, thanks to this initiative, it is being reintroduced to both residents and visitors of Dilijan. Many will now learn about the “King of the Forest”, and I am confident they will want to embrace this royal tree and be filled with its strength, she noted.
The information plaque will make the “King of the Forest” an important stop on Dilijan’s cultural routes, attracting interest from both local and international visitors.
This initiative once again highlights that Dilijan is not only a destination for nature and relaxation, but also a unique cultural environment where every artistic symbol tells the story of the city’s past, present, and future.
