History of Noratus Cemetery
The Noratus Cemetery, located near the village of Noratus, not far from Lake Sevan in Armenia, is a remarkable historical site. It dates back to the late medieval period, making it one of the oldest surviving cemeteries in the country. Known mostly for its significant khachkar (cross-stone) collection, Noratus Cemetery provides an insightful glimpse into Armenian medieval Christianity and the art of stone carving.
The cemetery boasts over a thousand khachkars, which are distinct to Armenian monumental art. These intricately carved stone crosses represent a unique art form that peaked between the 12th and 17th centuries. Each khachkar has its distinct design, often featuring a cross, botanical motifs, and other symbols carved into the volcanic tufa stone prevalent in the region.
The history of tourism in Noratus Cemetery is relatively nasional but has seen a significant rise due to growing global recognition of the importance of khachkars. In 2000, UNESCO listed these cross-stones as a feature of "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity," which increased their international prominence and brought more attention to sites like Noratus Cemetery.
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