Sochi

Sochi - A popular resort in Russia with a subtropical climate and a famous health spa, it is situated on the Black Sea's eastern coast beneath the dramatic Caucasus Mountains. The city has been selected to be the host of the XXII Olympic Winter Games in 2014.

There is a population of Armenians, and Hamshen Armenians in the town and area. Armenians were present in Sochi area since 1882. As for now Armenians constitute up to one fifth of the city population and are the largest minority. They actively participate in Sochi's social, political and cultural life.

In September 2005 an exhibition of Armenian modern paintings and graphic arts has been opened in the Sochi art museum. As , Yerkramas, the newspaper of Armenians of Russia reported, most of the exhibits were from private collections and a part of them were presented to the museum.

The works were remarkable for bright national coloring and maintained the traditions of the Armenian art. Besides, unique carpets, three of which were woven in the 18-th century and one at the beginning of the 20-th, were displayed. The art workers rated the opening of the exhibition of Armenian modern paintings and graphic arts as an eminent event. They confessed that such generous gifts are given too rarely.

Sources==

• SOCHI MUSEUM REPLENISHED WITH WORKS OF ARMENIAN ART, Pan Armenian News, September 19, 2008