Archbishop Shahan Sarkissian represented the Holy See of Cilicia in the “Faces of Memory: Newest Technologies for the Preservation and Restoration of Manuscript and Printed Heritage” international seminar, held from April 28 to May 1 at the Mesrob Mashdots Research Institute of Ancient Manuscripts (Matenadaran) in Yerevan.

For the fifteenth year, the seminar gathered Armenian and international specialists to discuss technological advances in preserving and restoring Armenian manuscript and printed heritage. The discussions culminated in a proposed declaration for international partnership and cooperation among institutions dedicated to preserving and sharing printed heritage.

Archbishop Sarkissian delivered a presentation highlighting the Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia’s vital role in rescuing and preserving Armenian manuscript heritage.

He called for “unconditional cooperation,” urging participants to deepen collaboration and share scientific expertise—especially crucial amid global instability, particularly in the Middle East and Lebanon.

Next week, as a continuation of the seminar, Sosi Sakayan, Secretary of the Cilicia Library of the Catholicosate, will participate in the manuscript restoration master classes.