Commemorative Medal of the Mekhitarian College, Buenos Aires, 1971

ANRO-1750

Obverse: A right-facing portrait of Mekhitar Abbot (1676–1749), the founder of the Mekhitarist Congregation, depicted with detailed features and clerical attire. The surrounding inscriptions read "ՄԽԻԹԱՐ ԱԲԲԱՀԱՅՐ" in Armenian and "ABATE MECHITAR" in Latin, alongside the dates "1676" and "1749," representing Mekhitar's birth and death.

Reverse: National flag of Argentina, enamelled with its characteristic blue and white stripes and central radiant sun. Surrounding the flag is the inscription "COLEGIO MEKHITARIAN BUENOS AIRES," commemorating the Mekhitarian educational institution in Argentina.

Specifications: 31.5x28.5mm, 9.76g
Artist / Engraver: Varisco
Mint:
Edge: Plain
Mintage:
Reference:
Image shown: ANRO collection inv. no.

The Mekhitarist College in Buenos Aires was established in 1956 by the Mekhitarist Congregation to serve the Armenian diaspora in Argentina. It was founded in the Villa Devoto neighborhood, where the Mekhitarists also established a monastery. The college was inaugurated to provide Armenian children with an education that combines academic rigor with the preservation of Armenian heritage, including the teaching of the Armenian language, history, and religion. Over the decades, the college has expanded its facilities and programs, becoming one of the primary educational institutions for Armenian-Argentines, fostering a sense of identity and community among the diaspora. The Mekhitarist Congregation’s long-standing tradition of excellence in education continues to guide the institution.