Yerevan Unveils Educational Playground Inspired by Armenian Inventors

A new public playground titled “Armenian Inventors: Science from the Inside Out” officially opened in Missak Manouchian Park, bringing together education, play, and science in the center of Yerevan. The project was launched by the Keron Development Foundation in cooperation with the Kentron administrative district and with support from Paper.

The new playground is part of an ongoing initiative aimed at improving public play spaces across the city. It follows earlier projects developed by the foundation, including “Karmrakhayt: Secrets of the Hidden River,” located in the Circular Park near Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, and “Vishapagorg: The Memory of the Tree of Life,” located in Khachkar Park near Republic Square. These spaces have been designed to combine the urban environment with cultural themes while encouraging children’s creativity.

The newly opened playground covers an area of about 700 square meters and is designed for children between the ages of 3 and 12. It follows international standards and aims to provide a safe, inclusive, and creative environment. Its concept is based on Armenian scientific thought, allowing children to explore ideas from science through play.

At the center of the playground stands a six-meter-high play tower, which serves as the main structure around which the rest of the space is organized. The area includes interactive features connected to physics, astronomy, and engineering. The design encourages children to learn through movement, exploration, and hands-on experience.

The playground is divided into several themed zones. The main tower area includes climbing nets, slides, and scientific panels that represent discovery and innovation. Another section offers interactive solutions such as a small labyrinth, designed to develop curiosity and logical thinking.

Inclusivity is a key part of the project. The space includes elements that allow children of different abilities to use the playground equally. The overall concept combines play and education, supporting children’s physical, social, and intellectual development while also introducing them to the achievements of Armenian scientists.

The opening ceremony brought together local officials and project partners. Among those who spoke were Kentron district head Petros Petoyan, Executive Director of the Keron Development Foundation Vanane Ararktsyan, and Executive Director of Paper Story company Karina Ayvazova. Tigran Avinyan also attended the event.

Petros Petoyan stated: “It is a dream and an idea that we had years ago that is becoming a reality today. And when we see the smiles of children in these playgrounds, we understand that we have truly done something right.”

Vanane Ararktsyan, Executive Director of the “Keron” Development Foundation, emphasized: “I welcome you all to the opening of our third and final playground. Like the previous two, this playground also includes educational elements. Here, children will, through play, naturally learn about Armenian inventors and their great inventions that changed the world. It may seem that we are doing something small — improving 700 square meters here, around 1,000 square meters near Republic Square, 2,000 square meters in the Circular Park, the library of Yerevan State Medical University, restoration of historical buildings to international standards, the Saryan stairs, and more. But we are convinced that well-maintained and beautiful public spaces, care, and a city transformed to the highest standards will change all of us and help our children become more developed and broad-minded.”

Karina Ayvazova, Executive Director of “Paper” company, stated: “We are very grateful to the ‘Keron’ Foundation for giving us the opportunity to become a big part of this beautiful playground. At ‘Paper,’ we believe that even the smallest steps can lead to big initiatives. We hope that our children will take such small steps of development here, which will lead to greater things in their future.”

The event took place in a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Activities organized for children included workshops, scientific experiments, and entertainment programs, along with refreshments, creating an engaging and educational experience for families attending the opening.

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