“Ozhiti shenq”
Constructed in the 1890s by Levon Drampyan, a distinguished and philanthropic figure in the city, the opulent building emerged as a symbol of generosity. Levon Drampyan presented this lavish house as a wedding dowry to his daughter, Jawahir Drampyan, endearing it to the people of Gyumri, who fondly continue to call it the “Ozhiti shenq” Historical records unveil that, at a certain juncture, the building assumed a civic role as the municipality. In a cost-saving measure, Jawahir’s husband, Ter-Petrosyan, temporarily relocated municipal activities to their own residence.
In a historic episode during the defense of Alexandropol in 1918, General Andranik rallied the people from the balcony of this very building, inspiring them to form the Percussive Regiment. The “Ozhiti shenq” not only stands as a testament to familial generosity but is intricately woven into the city’s history, intimately connected to crucial moments during times of defense and community mobilization. In 1920, the peace treaty of Alexandropol was signed within the walls of this historic building, further solidifying its significance in the annals of Gyumri’s past.