Charles Aznavour’s Statue Unveiled in the Heart of Armenia

The city of Yerevan has honored one of its most beloved sons — the legendary French-Armenian singer, songwriter, and National Hero of Armenia, Charles Aznavour. A new statue of Aznavour now stands proudly in Aznavour Square, in front of the iconic Moscow Cinema, reminding everyone of the lasting bond between the man and the nation that shaped him.

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This monument is a historic and emotional moment, arriving just in time for the 100th anniversary of Aznavour’s birth. While he was known around the world as a Parisian icon, Aznavour never forgot his Armenian roots. His legacy continues to inspire Armenians across generations and continents.

The statue was created by artist Davit Minasyan, whose winning design was chosen from more than 100 miniature models submitted by artists from around the world in an open competition. The selection process was led by the Yerevan Municipality and the Aznavour Foundation. Fittingly, the statue was cast in Gyumri, one of Armenia’s most culturally rich cities.

At the unveiling on July 18, a crowd gathered to witness this historic tribute. Among those in attendance were Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan, French Ambassador to Armenia Olivier Decottignies, government officials, and members of the Aznavour family — including his son, Nicolas Aznavour.

In his heartfelt speech, Nicolas shared that his father had a special connection to the square, often staying in a nearby hotel and gazing at the lively street below. “It is very touching to realize that from now on, once and for all, Aznavour will be here, in this square,” Nicolas said. “My father was in love with Armenia… He believed in the strength and power of this country… This statue belongs to the entire Armenian people, as well as to those people around the world who loved Aznavour and continue to love him.”

French Ambassador Olivier Decottignies, speaking in Armenian and French, emphasized how Aznavour’s two identities — Armenian and French — were inseparable. He called the statue a symbol of unity and memory, thanking those who made it possible and highlighting Aznavour’s cultural impact across the globe.

The statue represents a lifetime of love, sacrifice, and connection. Charles Aznavour sang for the world, but he sang from his heart as an Armenian. His voice carried the pain of genocide, the hope of survival, and the beauty of a culture that refused to disappear.

Now, with this sculpture permanently rooted in Yerevan’s center, future generations will walk past it and remember a man who carried Armenia with him everywhere he went — not only in song but in soul.

This is not just a statue. It is a promise. A promise that Armenia never forgets those who love her — and that she will always welcome them home.

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