The cross, a symbol synonymous with Christianity, holds a unique and profound place in Armenian culture. Often referred to as the people of the cross, Armenians have integrated this symbol deeply into their national identity, earning their land the moniker “the land of the cross.”
Throughout Armenia, thousands of khachkars, or Armenian crosses, adorn the landscape. These intricately carved stone crosses offer a glimpse into the rich spiritual artistry of the world’s oldest Christian nation. The conversion of Armenians to Christianity in 301 CE marked the beginning of a new era, placing the cross at the heart of Armenian iconography.
When the Crusaders ventured into the Armenian Highlands, they encountered the deep-rooted tradition of Armenian cross veneration. The Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia, a strong ally of the European Crusaders, became a bastion of Christendom in the East. The Crusaders adopted various elements of Armenian culture, including castle building, art, and church architecture.
During the reign of Constantine I, the First Crusade saw Western European Christians marching through Armenia and Cilicia en route to Jerusalem. The Armenians in Cilicia formed powerful alliances with the Frankish Crusaders. Godfrey de Bouillon, a Crusader leader, adopted the design of the “Jerusalem Cross” from Armenian iconography.
Pope Gregory XIII, in his Ecclesia Romana, praised the Armenians for their unwavering support during the Crusades. He highlighted their enthusiasm, faith, and courage in aiding the Crusaders with horses, provisions, and command.
The friendly relations between Armenians and Crusaders often led to intermarriages. Godfrey’s brother, Baldwin of Boulogne, became the first Duke of Edessa (Armenian Urha, Urfa) by adoption as the son of Armenian Prince Thoros of Urha. Baldwin’s marriage to Prince Thoros’s daughter further cemented these ties, making her the first Queen of Jerusalem.
Founded around 1080 by the Rubenid dynasty, the Kingdom of Armenian Cilicia was an offshoot of the larger Bagratid family, which had ruled Armenia and Georgia. The Armenian royal house of Bagratuni (Georgian Bagrationi) later established themselves as rulers of Iberia (modern Georgia), spreading the use of the Jerusalem Cross to Georgia in the 14th century.
The medieval monk Thomas à Kempis eloquently captured the significance of the cross: “In the Cross is salvation; in the Cross is life; in the Cross is protection from our enemies; in the Cross is the infusion of heavenly sweetness; in the Cross is strength of spirit; in the Cross is joy of spirit; in the Cross is the excellence of virtue; in the Cross is the perfection of holiness.”
Since 2010, Armenian Khachkars, their symbolism, and craftsmanship have been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, recognizing their unique contribution to world heritage.
This article explores the origins of the Jerusalem Cross, highlighting the profound influence of Armenian culture and the enduring legacy of their spiritual artistry.
Image Source: PeopleOfAr
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