Charles Aznavour statue unveiled in Yerevan

A statue of legendary French-Armenian singer Charles Aznavour was unveiled in Yerevan’s Charles Aznavour Square, in front of the Moscow Cinema, on July 18. The sculpture, created by David Minasyan, depicts Aznavour singing his iconic song “La Bohème”.

During the inauguration ceremony, Nicolas Aznavour, co-founder of the Aznavour Foundation, expressed deep gratitude to those who helped bring the project to life. He emphasized that the statue belongs not only to the Armenian people, but also to the millions of admirers worldwide who continue to cherish Aznavour’s legacy.

“My father always stayed at the Hotel Yerevan during his visits to the capital, and he loved to gaze out over this square from his balcony,” Nicolas recalled. “It was a place full of life and history. It is deeply moving that from now on, he will be forever present in this very square.”

He spoke about his father’s enduring love for Armenia that went far beyond words and found expression in Aznavour’s many efforts and initiatives to support the country

“He carried Armenia in his heart and championed it on every global stage. He believed in the strength and potential of this country, its culture and future. That’s why he encouraged his family to settle here and help fulfill his vision,” Nicolas added.

French Ambassador to Armenia Olivier Decottignies also addressed the event, noting that while Aznavour was very much a Parisian, he never forgot his Armenian roots.

“The placement of this statue symbolizes the unity of his dual identity — Parisian and Armenian,” the ambassador said. “He often said, ‘I am 100% Armenian and 100% French.’”

Sculptor David Minasyan shared his creative process, revealing that when the competition for the statue was announced, he felt strongly that Aznavour’s image should break from tradition.

“I realized his statue should have no pedestal. Aznavour didn’t need one. He had to be in flight and that’s how I sculpted him,” Minasyan explained.