Armenian Minister of Culture Hasmik Poghosyan commented on public discontent over Sanahin monastery at news conference in Yerevan.

Sanahin monastery, founded in the 10th century and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is currently on the verge of demolition, left in a dilapidated state.

Earlier, Armenian society demanded resignation of the Catholicos of All Armenians with 1560 favoring the idea of Karekin II excommunication, while 221 voted against, according to Facebook poll.

The public mood was triggered by Karekin II’s statement, where he said, “I don’t care about the churches located in the mountains,” when asked to address the issue of Sanahin monastery complex.

As the Minister noted at news conference in Yerevan, the cultural heritage of Armenia is too extensive for the issue to be controlled solely by the state and church without any public support.

The Minister cited the Odzun monastery, with a special reconstruction fund created, as an example.

“Many constructions are currently in need of restoration; so the priority should be given to the most damaged historic monuments,” Ms. Poghosyan explained.