Noratus cemetery, Medieval cemetery in Noratus village, Armenia.

Noratus cemetery is a medieval burial ground in Noratus village, Gegharkunik Province, near Gavar and Lake Sevan. Its seven hectares hold almost a thousand khachkars, carved cross-stones, most covered with moss and lichen. Many bear a cross above a sun disc, framed by leaves, grape bunches, pomegranates or abstract patterns; several tombstones show weddings and farm life.

The cemetery began in the 10th century and later received additional khachkars during the Safavid era, when master craftsmen such as Kiram, Arakel, and Meliset carved new monuments. This period marked a peak in the artistic development of the burial markers.

Most khachkars carry a cross above a sun disc, with leaves, grape bunches, pomegranates or abstract patterns filling the rest of the stone. Some tombstones show carved wedding and farm scenes. At the grave of the 19th-century monk Ter Karapet Hovhanesi-Hovakimyan, visitors still pour water on the stone, drink, wash and break the vessel, leaving glass shards around it.

The cemetery lies about 90 kilometers north of Yerevan near Lake Sevan and is accessible by car or organized tours from the capital. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and allow time for walking across the large grounds.

During a medieval invasion, locals placed helmets on the khachkars and positioned swords against them to create the appearance of armed soldiers. This clever trick fooled attackers and protected the sacred site from destruction.