Archaeologists uncover tombstone at 17th-century Armenian church

Archaeologists have discovered a tombstone during excavations at the site of the 17th-century Anapat Church in Old Khndzoresk, in southern Armenia.

The Service for the Protection of Historical-Cultural Reserves-Museums and Historical Environment said in a statement that a tombstone was uncovered in front of the church altar, bearing the inscription: “This is the tomb of Khachatur, Archimandrite and theologian, 1729.”

During the Middle Ages, Anapat Church was an important center of manuscript production and spiritual culture.

“Architecturally, it is a rectangular-plan, vaulted hall with a semicircular apse, with pairs of annexes located on either side. The church’s vaulted roof has completely collapsed, but a section of the eastern wall and the northern entrance with an arched lintel have been preserved,” the Service reported.

The excavations are being carried out by the Service for the Protection of Historical-Cultural Reserves-Museums and Historical Environment. The expedition is headed by archaeologist Artavazd Zakyan. The excavations are scheduled to continue until September 14.