An archer's bronze belt that was worn about 700 B.C. A silver coin that was minted before the time of Christ. A Bible that was printed in the 17th century. A "dog collar" that was worn by a victim of the Armenian Genocide in 1915.

These are just some of the fascinating objects that are part of ALMA's permanent collections--collections that include religious artifacts, inscribed rugs, folk costumes, metalwork, paintings, embroideries, currency, illuminated manuscripts, ceramics, home furnishings, photographs, musical instruments and more.

Some of the objects were part of extensive collections that were generously donated by private benefactors. But many items were cherished family heirlooms that were simply collecting dust in people's closets and attics. Over a dozen of ALMA's 100 volunteers are kept busy recording, photographing and cataloguing all the material that comes in every week. Other volunteers work in the conservation laboratories and in the Library.

While most of ALMA's holdings are kept in storage for inspection by researchers, at least 400 items are on exhibit at any given time. This means that exhibits change so that visitors can be assured of seeing something new when they return. ALMA has also recorded over 800 tapes of interviews with survivors of the Armenian Genocide, so that they can be heard by their grandchildren, by researchers, and by any visitor who wants to be inspired by their courage and strength.

For information about the AMLA exhibits, please visit the Exhibit page.