Khachkar - Armenian cross stones

[Zohor]

Khachkar is one of characteristic elements in Armenian culture.



It is basically a stele which has carved cross in the middle, resting on the symbol of a sun or wheel of eternity, accompanied by vegetative-geometric motifs, carvings of saints or animals.



Each khachkar has unique pattern. They are of different sizes, up to almost 2 meters.



The tradition of carving khachkars probably started in the 9th century after liberation from Arabs. They are made as a focal point for worship, as memorial stones and as relics facilitating communication between the secular and divine. The khachkar is erected during a small religious ceremony. Armenians believe after blessing the khachkar, it possess holy powers which can bring all the good stuff.






You can see them in many cities with significant Armenian diaspora, for example here is one from eastern Poland symbolizing friendship between Armenians and Poles