The emblem of Artsakh: We are our mountains

The monument known as “We are our mountains” is a significant emblem of Artsakh, highly esteemed by the local populace, and featured on the Republic of Artsakh’s coat of arms. Made of volcanic tuff, the monument depicts an elderly man and woman, both carved from rock, embodying the mountain people of Karabakh. Affectionately referred to as “tatik-papik” (տատիկ-պապիկ) in Armenian, meaning “Grandmother and Grandfather,” this monument skillfully crafted by the talented Armenian sculptor, Sargis Baghdasaryan, in 1967, is situated at the entrance of Stepanakert, the capital of Artsakh.
The use of volcanic tuff in the monument’s construction signifies a deep connection between the land and the people. Despite resistance from the Soviet Azerbaijani administration during its creation, the monument was erected and has since become an iconic symbol of the region.