Artificial Lighting Systems in a Medieval City Using the Example of Ani

Artificial lighting in the medieval city of Ani, a significant urban center in Armenia during the 10th–11th centuries, was not only an aesthetic element but also a powerful tool for social hierarchy and cultural expression. Analysis of architectural monuments, written sources, and archaeological materials reveals that light shaped the visual environment of Ani, emphasizing its functional and symbolic roles—particularly in church complexes where it reinforced power, facilitated communication, and conveyed religious meanings. The study underscores how lighting systems reflected broader societal structures while contributing to the reconstruction of medieval urban environments with a focus on authenticity.

Baeva, O. V., & Kazaryan, A. Yu. (2025). Artificial Lighting Systems in a Medieval City Using the Example of Ani. Light & Engineering, (03-2025), 12–17. Internet Archive. https://doi.org/10.33383/2025-030