The Family of Arthur Tarkhanyan: Wife, Children, Personal Life
Arthur Tarkhanyan was not only an outstanding architect but also a man for whom family played a crucial role. Despite his constant occupation and creative obsession, he found time for his loved ones, and his home always remained a place of gathering, discussion, and inspiration.
Wife and Support on the Creative Path
Arthur Tarkhanyan’s wife was Zarema Kazbekovna Gubieva, a woman of strong character and deep intellect. She hailed from a princely Ossetian family whose members served in the Tsarist army, defending the southern borders of Russia and Armenia. Her grandfather participated in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878, World War I, and the Battle of Sardarapat.
Zarema was born in 1933 in Leningrad. However, during World War II, her family moved to Armenia, where her father was involved in the construction of the Yerevan Cable Factory. She graduated from the Chemistry Faculty of the Polytechnic Institute, but despite her education, she chose the path of supporting her family, dedicating herself entirely to her husband and daughter.
Arthur and Zarema met during their student years: he played on the basketball team, and she played on the volleyball team. Their union was based on mutual support and deep understanding. Zarema was keenly aware of how immersed Arthur was in his creative work but never reproached him for it. She created a cozy atmosphere where ideas were born, inspiring her husband to embark on new projects.
Daughter – Keeper of the Legacy
Arthur and Zarema’s daughter, Anahit Tarkhanyan, followed in her father’s footsteps and became an architect. She dedicated her career not only to her own projects but also to the preservation of her father’s legacy. For this purpose, she founded the “Arthur Tarkhanyan Center,” which is dedicated to studying and popularizing Armenian Modernism.
Anahit actively advocates for the preservation of her father’s landmark buildings, such as the “Russia” Cinema and the Zvartnots Airport terminal. In her interviews, she emphasizes that architecture is not merely physical objects but a cultural heritage that requires protection and respect.
Family as a Source of Inspiration
The Tarkhanyan family home was not just a residence—it was a true hearth of art, where architectural concepts were discussed, debates about contemporary trends took place, and new ideas were born. Friends, colleagues, and associates gathered here, including such prominent architects as Hrachya Poghosyan and Spartak Khachikyan.
Despite his fame, Arthur Tarkhanyan remained a modest person, avoiding publicity. He did not seek glory, but his works spoke for themselves. His family supported him in all his endeavors, and it is thanks to Zarema and Anahit that his legacy continues, inspiring new generations of architects.
Thus, family was not only a reliable support for Arthur Tarkhanyan but also the most important part of his creative journey, helping him overcome difficulties and creating the conditions for great achievements.