“Yerevan to L.A.” a phrase echoing the journey of countless Armenians. Los Angeles boasts one of the largest Armenian populations outside of Armenia. That’s right. You don’t need to travel across the world. Just head to Little Armenia.
Little Armenia is a vibrant neighborhood east of the Hollywood Freeway. It extends to North Vermont Avenue. Once Thai restaurants give way to colorful murals, you’ll know you’re in the right place. Take a moment to marvel at the murals. Most of them have a story to tell.
Armenians have resided in California for a very long time. When Armenians first began settling in L.A., East Hollywood evolved into Little Armenia. It received its official title in 2000. The Armenians established several small businesses. Some are still present today. You can find automotive shops and grocery stores.
One of the most famous murals is on Hollywood Blvd and Winona. It’s on the wall of a local restaurant called Friends & Family. A local Armenian graffiti artist created this mural. It pays tribute to Armenian Genocide survivors. It also honors other countries that faced persecution. This is reflected by the flags. The mural highlights the political relationship between the U.S. and Turkey. The U.S. never officially recognized the Genocide for years. They wanted to maintain foreign relations with their allies.
Other remnants of Armenian life exist around Hollywood. Not far from the Genocide mural is another mural. This mural is next to an Armenian pharmacy. It shows the Statute of Liberty in the center. Traditional Armenian symbols are in the background. These include Mt. Ararat and an Armenian monastery. This mural illustrates the role the U.S. played. It provided safe refuge for Genocide survivors.
Walking down Hollywood Blvd. you can find Nairi Banquet Hall. You will also see Hrach’s Hair Studio. Taron’s Bakery and the Arbat Grocery and Deli are also there. A few blocks away is the Pilibos Armenian School. St. Garabed Armenian Church is on N. Alexandria Ave.
Meander streets flanked by tall skinny palm trees. Take note of the quaint optical shops. They have Armenian writings all over them. Then, visit St. Garabed Armenian Apostolic Church. Check out the beautiful stained-glass windows. You’ll feel like you’re standing inside a kaleidoscope. Intricately designed triangles surround you. They feature different shades, colors, and figures. See if you can find Armenia’s iconic snow-capped mountain Ararat. It’s on the bottom of the windows.
While Little Armenia may not be the only Armenian enclave in Los Angeles, it remains a significant cultural landmark. Here, the spirit of Armenia thrives. It is reflected in the art, businesses, and community. Though some say “Glendale is Little Armenia”, this neighborhood holds historical importance. It is where the community took root.
Little Armenia is a testament to the resilience. It embodies the rich heritage of the Armenian people in Los Angeles. As you explore this neighborhood, remember the stories. Remember the struggles, and the triumphs that have shaped this unique community. It’s a reminder that even amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, a piece of Armenia endures.