Խաչքար՝ Գրիգոր և Մամքան Մամիկոնյանների, Khachkar in Vagharshapat, Armavir province, Armenia (14.1.9)
The khachkar for Gregory and Mamikon Mamikonian is a stone cross carved from tuff in Vagharshapat, named "All Savior" for its religious meaning. Its surface features religious scenes, saint figures, crosses and decorative patterns including carved suns and moons, images of Jesus Christ and holy figures.
The khachkar was carved in 1279, possibly by a craftsman named Vahram, at the request of two patrons. It originally stood 25 kilometers east of Vagharshapat in the village of Urtzadzor, but was moved to its current location beside the church clock tower in 1968 for protection.
This khachkar displays carved religious symbols including crucifixion scenes, saints, and figures of faith that reflect Armenian Christian traditions in stone. The design combines Christian imagery with traditional Armenian decorative patterns like palm and lily motifs, showing how faith and local artistic heritage are woven together.
The khachkar sits beside the church clock tower on the northern wall, easy to locate when visiting that area. Although weathered by centuries, the detailed carvings remain visible and reward close observation and reflection.
The khachkar was likely made by the same craftsman or workshop responsible for several similar carvings across Armenia, suggesting a specialized artist with a recognizable style. Armenian inscriptions carved into the stone praise the figures depicted and explain their religious and historical importance.
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