Armenian cross-stones art. Symbolism and craftsmanship of Khachkars | |
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Country | Armenia |
Reference | 00434 |
Region | Europe and North America |
Inscription history | |
Inscription | 2010 (5th session) |
List | Representative |
A khachkar (also spelled as khatchkar) or Armenian cross-stone[1] (Armenian: խաչքար, pronounced [χɑtʃʰˈkʰɑɾ], խաչ xačʿ "cross" + քար kʿar "stone") is a carved, memorial stele bearing a cross, and often with additional motifs such as rosettes, interlaces, and botanical motifs.[2] Khachkars are characteristic of medieval Christian Armenian art.[1][3]
Since 2010, khachkars, their symbolism and craftsmanship are inscribed in the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.[4]