Tigranakert Archaeological Excavations Reveal Unique Christian Mausoleum

YEREVAN — The archaeological excavations in Artsakh’s Tigranakert have revealed a unique Christian mausoleum, residential economic complexes have been opened as a result of diggings, the northern wall of the fortress built by King Tigran has also been found. Tigranakert is located near Maragha Village of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic.

This year the findings have taken the expedition to Amaras, where the eastern part of Grigorius’ Mausoleum has been found, which can help make new revelations about the early Christian period in Armenia.

According to the head of Tigranakert expedition Hamlet Petrosyan, there have been over 100 publications about Tigranakert over the past ten years of excavations, but there is no academic monograph presenting the phenomenon of monument.

“We are hopeful to open the fortress’ main entrance, which promises not only a magnificent architectural sample but also, I think, records about the city. In the central district’s Christian Square. we have unveiled the second church where we had unearthed a crypt under the Koran,”  Petrosyan told reporters on Friday, commenting on the results of the excavation.

He said they invited three foreign experts to collaborate with the team last year in an effort to raise worldwide awareness of the historical Armenian site. “Tigranakert needs to gain recognition today, so by inviting foreign specialists, we will raise awareness of the city in those countries as well. Apart from their academic significance, archaeological excavations are also important in terms of raising the society’s attention. All Armenians have been involved in the process. The excavations in Tigranakert are very important, as we need attention not only by the scientific circles but also ordinary people,” he explained.

He says the scientific and political circles in Armenia are indifferent towards the issue. Azerbaijan, in turn, does not stop holding most various actions and publishing articles to describe the research works in Tigranakert as political excavations.

“Tigranakert is one of the most powerful factors revealing the identity of Armenians of Artsakh and worldwide,” Hamlet Petrosyan told reporters.