I did not learn Armenian as a child so as an adult I am struggling to grasp the language. However, I am very determined to learn it as I build my future here. Learning a new language as an adult is always a challenge, but learning a language as ancient as Armenian seems like an added layer of difficulty.
It is not completely clear when the Armenian alphabet was first invented, but in 405 AD Mesrop Mashtots “reinvented” the alphabet. He essentially uncovered what was already linguistically in place and reorganized it to have God as the start and end of the alphabet. He placed the letter A at the beginning which stands for Astvats meaning God and the last letter was K which stands for K’ristos meaning Christ. The last few letters were added in the 12th century to accommodate for foreign languages. The desire for Mesrop Mashtots to create the alphabet in 405 AD was so that the Bible could be translated into Armenian as Christianity was quickly spreading throughout the country. The Armenian alphabet is considered a cultural treasure among Armenians who are very proud of their language.
In 2005, on the 1,600th birthday of the alphabet, architect Jim Torosyan created the alphabet monument just outside Yerevan. The giant letters carved from volcanic rock are strategically scattered throughout an open field. This monument is stunning to visit in all seasons. In the winter, the giant letters are covered with pure white snow and in the warmer months the letters are surrounded by wildflowers and lush grass. No matter the season, this monument always carries a feeling of silent power. As you look up at the massive and beautifully carved letters you cannot help but be in awe of such a longstanding ancient language.