SERVATIOS
NATIONAL CENTER
St. SERVATIOS Monument. Memorial in Yerevan, Armenia.
- About St. SERVATIOS -
Saint Servatios (Dutch: Sint Servaas; French: Saint Servais; Armenian: Սուրբ Սերվատիոս “Servatios"; died 13 May 384) was the first bishop of Maastricht in the Netherlands and Tongeren in Belgium. He was a Christian leader in the Low Countries and is recognized as one of the Ice Saints. As the bishop of Tongeren, he played a significant role during the Roman Empire and built the chapel in Maastricht.
According to historical accounts, Saint Servatios was born in Armenia, which was part of the Kingdom of Armenia that existed from 189 BC to 428 AD. He died on May 13, 384, and was buried in Maastricht. The feast day honoring him, the first Christian leader of the Netherlands and Belgium, is observed on May 13.
Today, Armenia stands as a formidable participant in international processes, confidently pursuing sustainable democracy and forging deeper ties with its European counterparts and institutions. We are a vital part of European civilization, grounded in our rich Christian heritage. The historical bond between Armenia and Europe is undeniable, marked by a legacy of mutual positive influence. Through this project, we are determined to emphasize this enduring connection by honoring St. Servatios. Also, it is important to preserve his memory and educate people about his life, works, and contributions.
The first bishop of Maastricht
Saint Servatios was the first bishop of Maastricht (Netherlands) and one of the first bishop of Tongeren (Belgium). He is Christian leader in the Low Countries and one of the Ice Saints. Saint Servatios was the bishop of Tongeren who played a role of some importance in the Roman empire and built a church in his hometown. Probably, he also built the chapel of Maastricht. His three basilicas - Our Lady in Tongeren, Our Lady Star of the Sea in Maastricht, and Saint Servatius in Maastricht - are among the most beautiful medieval monuments in the Low Countries.
According to history, Saint Servatios was born in Armenia, (The Kingdom of Armenia existed from 189 BC. to 428 AD). He was buried in Maastricht after his death (died 13 May 384). The holy day of the first Christian leader of the Netherlands and Belgium is 13th of May.
St. Servatios Monument
Today, Armenia actively participates in international processes and has chosen the path of sustainable democracy, along with deeper integration with its sister countries in Europe and European institutions. Armenia is an integral part of European civilization, rooted in its Christian heritage. Historically, Armenia and Europe have shared an inextricable connection and a mutually positive influence. With this project, we aim to emphasize this connection through the installation of a monument to St. Servatios. In addition to the historical ties between Armenia and the Netherlands, friendly relations have been maintained throughout history.
Today, the Netherlands consistently support the rights and security of Armenia and its people. The National Center Development Foundation has initiated the creation and installation of the monument in honor of St. Servatios in Yerevan. This event will be significant for strengthening bilateral relations and consolidating the historically close ties between the two nations.
St. Servatios Park in Yerevan, Armenia
The historical ties between Armenia and the Netherlands have fostered friendly relations for many centuries. Today, the Netherlands consistently supports the rights and security of Armenia and its people.
In downtown Yerevan, there are potential sites for installing a future monument and creating an Armenia–Netherlands Friendship Park. These sites could include abandoned Soviet-era parks that have lost their significance. Establishing this park would symbolize the restoration of Armenia's historical heritage and European unity through its friendship with the Netherlands.
