YEREVAN, APRIL 8, ARMENPRESS. The restoration of the building of ‘Camp Armen’ Armenian orphanage in Istanbul’s Tuzla district has been launched: digging works are already over, Anadolu reported.

Grigor Aghabaoglu – President of the Gedikpaşa Armenian Protestant Church and the School Foundation, said they aim to restore the historical orphanage which is partly demolished. He recalled that some part of the orphanage area has not been returned to them yet. “We believe that based on the promise given to us, the remaining part will be returned back. ‘Camp Armen’ will serve as a very beautiful cultural institution. It will keep alive the memory of Hrant Dink”, he said.

‘Camp Armen” summer orphanage was built thanks to efforts of Armenian orphans. The children living in the camp took part in the construction works. Over 1500 children lived, were educated, learned Armenian in the camp, including also Armenian journalist of Istanbul Hrant Dink.

On May 6, 2015 the demolition of the building started: 1/3 of the building was destroyed. A number of organizations, as well as individuals in Turkey tried to prevent the demolition of the camp. After long-lasting fight, in October, 2015 ‘Camp Armen’ was returned to the Gedikpaşa Armenian Protestant Church Foundation.