Noratus (Cross-Stones)
Region
Gegharkunik
Distance from Yerevan
92.7 km
Type
Monastery/Church
In the Armenian world, khachkars (cross-stones) can be found almost everywhere, as they are one of the most distinctive expressions of Armenian cultural heritage. The largest khachkar field in the world is located in Noratus village, in Gegharkunik Province, one of the oldest settlements in the region. The village cemetery, also known as the Noratus Khachkar Field, is famous for its multitude of khachkars. About 900 khachkars stand there—the oldest dating to the 9th century, and most to the 13th–14th centuries. Previously, the Julfa (Jugha) cemetery in Nakhichevan, with its 2,500 khachkars, was the largest, but it was destroyed by Azerbaijan between 1998 and 2005. Numerous talented stone masters worked in Noratus, including Melikset the Carver, Nerses, Kiram, and others. In addition to the cemetery, the village and surrounding areas contain other monuments as well.
Interesting
facts about Noratus (Cross-Stones)

Facts



Weather in Gegharkunik
The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Noratus depends on the weather conditions.