Armenian museums offer free admission on 16 May

Museums across Armenia will offer free admission on 16 May as part of the annual “Night of Museums” initiative, ahead of International Museum Day on 18 May.

According to the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, this year’s International Museum Day theme, “Museums Unite a Fragmented World”, highlights the role of museums in fostering cultural dialogue, mutual understanding and the preservation of shared values.

Participating museums will host exhibitions, educational programmes, workshops, public discussions and special tours designed for visitors of all ages.

On 16 May, museums taking part in the programme will remain open from 11:00 until midnight, giving visitors the opportunity to explore collections through interactive events and late-night cultural activities. Admission will be free throughout the day.

The ministry said the initiative aims to strengthen public interest in cultural heritage, deepen ties between museums and the public, and emphasise the role of culture in building a more cohesive society.

International Museum Day was established in 1977 by the International Council of Museums. The “Night of Museums” programme was launched in France in 2005 with the support of UNESCO and the Council of Europe. Armenia joined the initiative later that year.