Khoren Vatinyan Soviet and Armenian architect Date of Birth: 14.02.1923 Country: Armenia

1. Early Life and Education
2. Architectural Career
3. Political and Architectural Leadership
4. Impact on Dilijan
5. Later Career
6. Honors and Recognition

Early Life and Education

Koren Vardanyanwas born in the Soviet Union as a Soviet and Armenian architect. He was also a state and party leader, joining the Union of Architects of Armenia in 1955.

During World War II, Vardanyan served in the Great Patriotic War from 1941 to 1943. He was demobilized due to injuries sustained during the conflict.

After the war, Vardanyan pursued his education at Yerevan Polytechnic Institute. He graduated in 1950 with a degree in architecture and construction.

Architectural Career

From 1950 to 1960, Vardanyan worked as an architect in Yerevan. His notable projects during this period include the educational building of the agricultural technical college in Oktemberyan, a dormitory for the same college, a residential building in Kirovakani, and a maternity hospital in Norashen.

Political and Architectural Leadership

Between 1960 and 1975, Vardanyan held several political positions. He served as chairman of the city council of people's deputies and later as first secretary of the Dilijan city committee of the Communist Party of Armenia. He was also an elected member of the Supreme Council of Armenia for three consecutive terms (6th, 7th, and 8th).

During his political tenure, Dilijan underwent a remarkable transformation under Vardanyan's leadership. He implemented a strategic development plan that propelled the town from a provincial settlement into a renowned health resort. Notable projects completed under his guidance include rest homes and sanatoriums such as Mountain Armenia, the House of Composers, and the House of Cinematographers.

Impact on Dilijan

Vardanyan's leadership had a profound impact on Dilijan, attracting prominent figures from various fields. Cosmonauts, composers, poets, artists, chess masters, and other notable individuals, including Valentina Tereshkova, Aram Khachaturian, and Tigran Petrosian, visited and enjoyed the town's therapeutic environment.

The town's prosperity was not limited to its tourism sector. Under Vardanyan's guidance, Dilijan gained vital infrastructure, including the electronics factory "Impulse," a department store, a cinema, and a school. The grateful citizens of Dilijan named a central street after him in recognition of his contributions.

Later Career

From 1975 to 1985, Vardanyan served as deputy chairman of the State Construction Committee of Armenia. While his primary responsibility was to oversee the preservation of the republic's historical architectural heritage, he continued to promote the development of his beloved Dilijan, developing the city's general development plan.

Honors and Recognition

Vardanyan received numerous orders, medals, and honorary certificates for his tireless work and service to his country. His awards include the Order of the Patriotic War (both first and second degrees), the Order of the Red Banner of Labor, and the Honorary Diploma of the Presidium of the Supreme Council of Armenia.