The Fresno County Archaeological Society and the Fresno State Art History Program welcomed Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian on Monday, April 6, for a lecture titled “Armenia: Discovering the Pre-History of an Ancient Land.”
Dr. John Pryor, retired Professor of Anthropology at Fresno State, welcomed the audience to the presentation. Dr. Pryor then introduced Dr. Wannasarn (Saam) Noonsuk, Associate Professor of Asian Art and Archaeology at Fresno State, and Vice President for Programs of the Fresno County Archaeological Society/ Archaeological Institute of America San Joaquin Valley Chapter, who introduced Prof. Der Mugrdechian.
“Archaeologists have long recognized the significance of this region,” explained Prof. Der Mugrdechian, as he pointed to Armenia on a map.
Located at historic crossroads between Europe and Asia, modern Armenia today represents only about one-tenth of the broader historical Armenian homeland. The region is characterized by a high, mountainous plateau that has played a key role in its cultural and historical development.
The lecture was organized chronologically, guiding the audience through key periods of Armenian prehistory and early history, along with associated cultures and archaeological discoveries.
Beginning around 9,500 BCE, Prof. Der Mugrdechian discussed Karahunj (kar meaning “stone” and hunj referring to the “sound of air”). Often interpreted as a megalithic observatory predating Stonehenge, Karahunj reflects early human engagement with astronomy and the natural world.
Moving approximately into the period between 4,000–2,000 BCE, Prof. Der Mugrdechian highlighted evidence of early metallurgy and advanced agricultural practices, suggesting significant technological development in the region.
A major focus of the lecture was the Areni-1 cave complex (dated to around 4,000 BCE), where archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest known leather shoe, as well as what is considered the earliest known winery.
Transitioning into the 17th century BCE, Prof. Der Mugrdechian discussed the Metsamor culture, noting its early settlements and ritual clay vessels that provide insight into Bronze and Iron Age belief systems and ceremonial practices.
Prof. Der Mugrdechian also examined the Kingdom of Urartu (9th-6th c. BCE), often regarded as the earliest identifiable Armenian kingdom. This civilization demonstrated advanced construction techniques, particularly the use of tufa stone in architecture. The site was rediscovered in modern times during urban expansion in Yerevan.
The lecture concluded with a discussion of the Temple of Garni, a Greco-Roman style structure built in the 1st century AD. The temple illustrates cultural interaction and architectural exchange between Armenia and the broader ancient world. Although it was destroyed by an earthquake in the 17th century, it was later reconstructed during the Soviet period, preserving its historical significance.
Following the presentation, the audience members posed many thoughtful questions, drawing from their own experiences, knowledge and travels to foster a better understanding of prehistoric Armenia.