In
ancient
times, frescoes and mosaic were a symbol of wealth and power. Only the
very rich could afford them. They were exclusively found in royal
palaces, nobility houses, temples and a limited number of recreational
centers. In many instances, frescoes and mosaic made a statement. A
public statement. They did send a message to the natives and foreign
countries. A message of culture, education, art and most certainly a
message of prosperity, wealth, economic
prosperity and military might.
Now, in the early times of Christian Armenia, those religious frescoes
will serve another purpose. In fact, one single purpose: The Christian
faith.
became the world’s largest custodian and depository
of religious relics, imageries, illustrated manuscripts, icons,
religious paintings, crosses carved stones, religious statues and
Christian decorative and ornamental memorabilia. In fact, the once upon
a time forbidden tabooed pagan tradition of sculpting deities in stone
and marble became Armenia’s favourite tool, medium and symbol of its
religious fervor.
The Katchkars are Armenian cross carved stones. But,
those stones symbolize the eternal life in Jesus Christ. They represent
the strong Armenian Christian Faith and remarkable Armenian religious
fervor. The katchkars are Armenia!