The collection of approximately 17,000 manuscripts includes almost every sphere of Armenian ancient and medieval science and culture - history, geography, philosophy, grammar, law, medicine, mathematics, literature, miniature and others, as well as manuscripts in Arabic, Persian, Greek, Syrian, Latin, Ethiopian, Indian, Japanese, etc.

Preservation work achieved by the Matenadaran brought instant recognition to this great Armenian manuscript depository. Individuals both in Armenia and foreign countries often donate manuscripts and preserved fragments to the Matenadaran.