Noratus Cemetery Tourism

Noratus Cemetery, also known as Noraduz Cemetery, is an extensive medieval cemetery located in the village of Noratus, near Lake Sevan in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. Renowned for its large cluster of khachkars, traditional Armenian cross-stones, the cemetery boasts over 800 khachkars dating back to the 9th through 17th centuries. These exquisitely carved stones feature intricate designs and are considered an essential representation of Armenian cultural heritage. They depict cross motifs, rosettes, and sometimes carvings of people or scenes from daily life. Noratus became a particularly significant site for these khachkars after the destruction of khachkars in the city of Julfa, Nakhchivan by the Azerbaijani government. Many of the stones in Noratus feature carvings by the master carver Poghos. In addition to khachkars, the cemetery has numerous tombs and mausoleums, reflecting the area’s long history and its significance as a ritual site. Noratus Cemetery is covered with lichen due to its age, which only underscores its historical ambiance. It's a place of profound silence and reflection, offering visitors not only a chance to connect to Armenia's past but also to its enduring traditions and craftsmanship.