We Are Our Mountains
Monument Large basalt monument symbolizing local mountain people
We Are Our Mountains, a carved tuff monument above Stepanakert, serves as an emblem of local Highland identity; visitors photograph the twin figures and learn about regional history and craft traditions.
We Are Our Mountains is a monumental rock sculpture located on a hill north of the city of Stepanakert in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. It depicts two stylized elderly faces carved from native stone and is an emblematic symbol of the local mountain people.
The work was created by sculptor Sargis Baghdasaryan and completed in 1967. It has served as a cultural and civic landmark since its installation and is visible from the surrounding city.
The monument sits on a low hill overlooking the urban area of Stepanakert (Khankendi) and is easily visible from the city center.
- Local name: Commonly called "Tatik Papik" in the local language, the name is often translated as Grandmother and Grandfather and the monument functions as a civic emblem.
How to Get to We Are Our Mountains #
The monument sits on a hill overlooking the main settlement known as Stepanakert/Khankendi in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Access depends on political conditions and local border controls; check up-to-date travel advisories and local authorities before attempting to visit.
Tips for Visiting We Are Our Mountains #
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light on the stone faces and to avoid political demonstrations that sometimes occur near the monument.
- The figures are carved from local tuff in 1967 by Sargis Baghdasaryan - look for tool marks and the weathering pattern that gives the faces their craggy look.
- Be aware of local sensitivities and the contested status of the region; treat the site as a cultural landmark first and foremost.
Best Time to Visit We Are Our Mountains #
Best visited in late spring through early autumn for pleasant conditions and clearer skies; political situation can affect access - check local advisories.
Weather & Climate near We Are Our Mountains #
We Are Our Mountains's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -3°C to 27°C. Moderate rainfall (502 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -3°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -2°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with 96 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 17°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. The driest month with just 15 mm and partly cloudy skies.
