khach

Khach is the transliteration of the Armenian word խաչ, which means cross. In English-language contexts, the term most often appears in reference to khachkars, carved Armenian cross-stones that serve as memorial markers or grave markers and are a distinctive feature of Armenian Christian art and heritage.

A khachkar is typically a vertical stone slab carved with a cross at its center, surrounded by decorative motifs such as rosettes, foliage, geometric patterns, and inscriptions. The carvings are usually relief work and may include religious verses, signatures, or dates. Khachkars have been produced since medieval Armenia and continued in various regions inhabited by Armenian communities, with regional stylistic differences across time and places. Common materials include basalt and tuff.

Culturally, khachkars are valued as religious monuments and as expressions of Armenian artistic and cultural identity. They are found at churches, monasteries, cemeteries, and public sites in Armenia and in Armenian communities abroad. The monuments range from simple, austere designs to highly elaborate compositions, reflecting regional workshops and contemporary revival efforts.

In addition to their primary religious and commemorative roles, the word khach also appears in Armenian personal names and place names, where it is tied to the root meaning cross. The term is most widely recognized today through the khachkar tradition, which continues to inspire restoration, study, and public display in museums and churches.