Carpet weaving in Armenia is a time-honored tradition dating back thousands of years. These intricate, colorful creations were not only utilitarian household items but also cultural symbols, passed down through generations as treasured heirlooms. Upholding this sacred heritage is the Megerian family, whose legacy in carpet craftsmanship spans over a century and crosses continents.
The story began in the early 1900s, when the Megerians emigrated to the United States, carrying with them a passion for Armenian textiles. In 1917, they officially founded their family business in New York City, initially focusing on the sale, cleaning, and restoration of antique and contemporary Armenian rugs. What began as a modest operation soon expanded into a global enterprise with collections that reflect the diverse history of rug-making.
Today, the Megerian brand showcases a wide array of styles including:
Armenian Collection – the heart of their tradition.
Tabriz and Sultanabad Collections – tributes to Persian and Central Asian designs.
Mamluk and Oushak Collections – reviving Egyptian and Anatolian classics.
Bijou Collection – capturing the elegance of Pakistani rug artistry.
Kazak, Savonnerie, antique, and modern rugs – each with its own regional story.
With flagship stores in New York, Zurich, and showrooms across Europe, the Megerians have become ambassadors of Armenian craftsmanship on the world stage. But one of their most treasured ventures remains close to home: the Megerian Carpet Factory in Yerevan.
Located at 9 Madoyan Street in Yerevan, the Megerian Carpet Factory is a unique destination where tradition, artistry, and hospitality come together. Here, visitors are welcomed not just as spectators, but as participants in the living legacy of Armenian rug-making.
The factory complex includes:
A museum housing carpets dating back to the 17th century, including rare, handcrafted pieces from the Megerian family’s private collection.
A working atelier where skilled artisans demonstrate every stage of rug production—from hand-dyeing wool with natural plant-based dyes to weaving carpets using the Armenian double knot technique, a method that incorporates over 160,000 knots per square meter.
An exhibition and sales gallery, where guests can admire and purchase authentic Megerian rugs.
The Megerian Carpet Restaurant, which delights visitors with traditional Armenian cuisine in a warm and authentic setting.
With 22 facilities across Armenia, the Megerian enterprise employs thousands and contributes significantly to preserving Armenia’s cultural identity. The family has reintroduced ancient dyeing methods using native plants, roots, and flowers from the Armenian highlands, reviving long-lost techniques in a modern context.
The factory has gained international attention, attracting celebrities and dignitaries alike. Notable visitors include Kim Kardashian West, whose Armenian heritage drew her to the site, and late-night host Conan O’Brien, who shared his colorful experience with millions of viewers.
