Alexander Tamanian facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Alexander Tamanian Ալեքսանդր Թամանյան
500 Armenian dram banknote honoring Tamanian
Born	March 4, 1878 Yekaterinodar, Kuban Oblast, Russian Empire (now Krasnodar, Russia)
Died	February 20, 1936(1936-02-20) (aged 57) Yerevan, Armenian SSR, Soviet Union
Nationality	Armenian
Occupation	Architect
Buildings	Armenian Opera Theater
Projects	Main Layout of Yerevan

Alexander Tamanian (Armenian: Ալեքսանդր Թամանյան, born March 4, 1878 – died February 20, 1936) was a famous Armenian architect. He was born in Russia but became very well known for his amazing work in the city of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. He designed many important buildings and even helped plan entire cities! Tamanian used a style called neoclassical, which means his buildings often looked like ancient Greek or Roman temples, but with a special Armenian touch.

Tamanian's Life and Amazing Work

Alexander Tamanian was born in 1878 in a city called Yekaterinodar (now Krasnodar) in Russia. His father was a banker. He studied at the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts and finished in 1904. His early designs showed a love for the neoclassical style, which was popular then. He designed homes and other buildings in Russia before moving to Armenia.

Statue of Alexander Tamanian at the steps of the Yerevan Cascade

In 1914, he became an important "Academician of Architecture." This means he was recognized as a top expert in building design. In 1917, he was even chosen as the Vice-President of the Academy of Arts.

A big change happened in 1923 when Tamanian moved to Yerevan, Armenia. He became the main person in charge of new construction there. He was like the chief engineer for the local government. He helped build up the construction industry and designed plans for many towns and villages. These included Leninakan (now Gyumri), Stepanakert, and Echmiadzin.

One of his most important jobs was creating the first main plan for the modern city of Yerevan. This plan was approved in 1924. Tamanian's unique style helped turn Yerevan from a small town into a modern capital city. It became an important center for industry and culture.

He used the neoclassical style, but he also added Armenian touches. For example, he used red tuff stone, which is common in Armenia. He also included traditional Armenian carvings on the stone.

Some of his most famous designs in Yerevan include:

• The first hydroelectric power station (ERGES-1) built in 1926.
• The amazing Opera and Ballet house (built between 1926 and 1953).
• The famous Republic Square (designed from 1926 to 1941).

Tamanian also worked to protect old historical buildings in Armenia. He led a committee that focused on saving these important landmarks.

Tamanian married Camilla Edwards, who came from a well-known family. His sons, Gevorg and Yulius Tamanian, also became architects. They continued their father's important work.

Alexander Tamanian passed away in Yerevan on February 20, 1936. He is buried in the Komitas Pantheon, a special cemetery for famous people in Yerevan.

Institute Museum after Alexander Tamanian, Yerevan

Famous Buildings He Designed

Alexander Tamanian designed many important buildings in Yerevan. Here are some of them:

• Aghasi Khanjian’s mansion – 1920s
• Andrei Sakharov Square – 1924
• Freedom Square – 1924-1939
• Republic Square – 1926-1977
• University Observatory – 1926
• First Hydroelectric Power Plant – 1926
• State Medical University – 1927-1955
• Institute of Zoology and Veterinary – 1928
• Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology – 1929
• Institute of Physiotherapy – 1930, 1932, 1939
• Engineering University – 1932, 1935
• University of Architecture and Construction – 1935
• Children's Hospital – 1939
• National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre – 1933, 1940, 1953
• Government House – 1941, 1952

Designing Whole Cities!

Plan of Nubarashen settlement in Armenia by the architect Alexander Tamanian, 1926

Tamanian didn't just design single buildings. He also created the overall plans for many towns and cities in Armenia. This means he decided where streets, parks, and important buildings would go. Some of the places he planned include:

• Yerevan
  • Nor Arabkir town
  • Nubarashen, 1926
• Ejmiatsin
• Stepanakert, 1926