Each culture possesses a certain original element which becomes a symbol of the entire national culture. In Armenia, such a symbol is the “khachkar”.  The word “khachkar” is formed by two Armenian roots: “khach” (cross) and “kar” (stone).  Historically, these cross stone monuments, cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Khachkar is an art - one of decorative-architectural sculptures based on the ancient national traditions, and made in a variety of shapes. Khachkars originated in the beginning of the 4th century right after the adoption of Christianity. Instead of the pagan altars in places allocated for churches and monasteries, wooden crosses were installed. Starting in the 9th century, being that the wood weathered quickly, the crosses were replaced by rectangular stone slabs, with images of crosses on them.  Khachkars were installed on various occasions, whether to commemorate a victory, a completion of another temple or bridge, or to thank God for a plot of land. They served as landmarks and very frequently as sepulchral monuments.

A cross surmounting a rosette or solar disc is a common design featured on a Khachkar, symbolizing a new eternal life. Under the cross they cut a circle: the circle with the cross on it symbolized celebration of Christian faith. Other slabs may feature a lily or palm décor, which stems from a symmetrical shape, giving a blossoming, vegetative appearance. Above the cross, it was customary to place Christian symbols, using one or all four of the evangelists: an eagle, a lion, a bull and an angel. For Armenians, they signified the four beginnings of the universe: fire, water, earth and air.

The stone-cutters who made Khachkars are called Varpets. Their art is still alive, and very much in demand.  Khachkars embrace the spirit of the Armenian people, and entire divinity of the Armenian Apostolic Church.  The largest cemetery with ancient Khachkars in Armenia is located near the settlement of Noraduz. A millennium of history is embodied in the Khachkars there, with ancient stones dating back to the 8th century.

Here, on the campus of St. Apkar Armenian Church of Arizona, one can find various examples of these Khachkars.  The Commemorative Monument and Khachkar Drinking Fountain were built on April 24, 2011 and unveiled on the 10th Anniversary of September 11, 2001.  These monuments were created as a memorial of all genocide and 9/11 victims, and symbolizes the rebirth of all nations. A Khachkar for Mom was created, unveiled and blessed in May of 2017 and is dedicated to all mothers.