Aghitu Memorial Pillar

The Aghitu Memorial Pillar is an exceptional monument of early medieval architecture in the historical region of Syunik. It was erected in memory of three Syunik princes who triumphed in battles against the Persians. The monument is located within the historic cemetery of Aghitu village, alongside 13th–14th-century khachkars (cross-stones) and tombstones. However, the memorial itself dates back to the 6th–7th centuries, making it one of the region’s earliest and most unique architectural structures. The pillar bears resemblance to the 5th–6th-century Odzun monument, standing at a height of 15 meters. Its base consists of two piers and horizontal cornices, forming a two-tiered arcade. It is built from finely hewn stone blocks and features a rectangular pedestal with an octagonal column set between two rectangular pillars. The column is topped with a lavishly decorated Corinthian-style capital, and the upper part of the monument is crowned with a three-part arch structure adorned with intricate floral carvings. Originally, a sculptural cross stood at the summit, fragments of which still survive.