Video: The 'Varem-Marem' Building in Gyumri is at Risk

In Gyumri, the historic old building known for its balcony in the film "Our Tango of Childhood" has been placed in jeopardy. The foundation of the building is being damaged under the pretext of road paving. This was reported by Sputnik Armenia.

It's worth noting that various authorities have announced plans for restoring the building multiple times, yet no action has been taken to date. Currently, active works are underway where old and beautiful tiles are being demolished with heavy machinery to pave the street.

"If they continue this way, they will cause even more harm to the building. It’s inhumane what they are doing. The building is a piece of our history. They said it should be restored; will they actually restore it?" said a local resident in an interview with the media.

It is mentioned that in front of the 'Varem-Marem' building, there is an art studio of the same name, where young artists have been taking on the task of promoting this historical building for several years, sharing the history of the building and its balcony with all visitors.

Previously, one could enter the building and go upstairs (it has always been dangerous, however). In 2022, it was closed because conditions had worsened, with dilapidated sections increasing. Currently, access to the balcony for photographs is prohibited, as it could collapse at any moment since only the facade and the outer walls are relatively preserved. The interior of this two-story large building has completely turned into ruins.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that there is an inscription on a stone above the building's door commemorating that the building was constructed in 1879.