A khachkar is an outdoor, vertically erected flat stele, which, when in situ, is positioned in relation to the four cardinal points of the world; the western side has an ornamentally carved cross, accompanied by vegetative-geometric motifs, with animals (particularly birds), and sometimes with carvings of people.
The khachkar both stimulated and reflects the unique development of Armenian culture; it is one of the most characteristic symbols of Armenian identity. With its marvelous carvings, savior symbolism of the cross, and the notion of eternity, which is conveyed by the stele, the khachkar was one of the most respected and, due to its positioning under the open air, one of the most accessible saints. After more than a thousand years, the khachkar is also a contemporary cultural phenomenon; today hundreds of khachkars are still being created in Armenia.
Despite all this, the world does not know very much about khachkars. The meaning of the composition and symbolism of the khachkar is still unfamiliar to many. The main purpose of this web site is to present this unique element of a culture, to attempt to discover its origins, the patterns of its development, its usage, and the meaning and symbolism of the carvings and ornaments. A second important goal is to promote the preservation of these monuments. A goal of this web site is also to create close bonds and encourage the exchange of opinions and thoughts with all organizations and persons that are researching, creating, or simply interested in khachkars.
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A khachkar is an outdoor, vertically erected flat stele, which, when in situ, is positioned in relation to the four cardinal points of the world; the western side has an ornamentally carved cross, accompanied by vegetative-geometric motifs, with animals (particularly birds), and sometimes with carvings of people.
