Archeology

Ukhtasar – Armenia: Symmetry in Rock Paintings

On the slopes of Armenia’s volcanic massifs, entire galleries of rock paintings with agricultural themes can be found. These petroglyphs, dating back to the 4th-2nd millennia BC, may even be older according to recent data.

Agricultural Revolution

Around 7,000 years ago, the inhabitants of the Mountain Island transitioned to agriculture. This monumental shift brought complex changes to society’s economic life, shaping new historical and chronological principles.

Agronomy in Rock Art

The first farmers documented their agronomic practices through rock paintings. These artworks often feature symmetrical arrangements of zoomorphic figures, such as harnessed bulls, symbolizing both plowing and the earth’s fertilization.

Religious Significance

A key element in these drawings is the cross-shaped central axis, imbued with religious meaning. This symmetry reflects the spiritual and practical aspects of early agrarian life.

Visiting Ukhtasar

In the warm season, visitors can explore Ukhtasar’s agricultural gallery from the city of Sisian. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient agrarian culture of Armenia.

Artatsolum

Would you like to learn more about other archaeological sites in Armenia?

Learn more

Vigen Avetisyan

Recent Posts

Clowns of War: The Strange Battlefield Legacy of Medieval Armenian Theater

Long before "clown" became a synonym for children's birthday parties, the word described a hardened…

2 days ago

Dura-Europos and Ancient Armenia: A Crossroads of Priests, Inscriptions, and the Cult of Mithra

Introduction The fresco reproduced above — three white-robed priests, one wearing a tall conical hat,…

7 days ago

From Lake Van to Yerevan: The Bronze Helmet of Urartu, the First Armenia

The crested bronze helmet on the left of this comparison was not made by a…

2 weeks ago

A Tower Crowned by a Lion-Rider: Reading a Bronze Age Cult Vessel Through the Lens of the Armenian Highlands

A small, weathered piece of fired clay — barely 31 centimeters tall — sits today…

2 weeks ago

A Hand Reaching Through Three Millennia: The Bronze Pendant from Yeghvard

Pendant (Amulet) in the Shape of a Human Hand | 7th–6th centuries BC | Yeghvard…

3 weeks ago

Duduk (Tsiranapogh): The Ancient Voice of Armenia from the Bronze Age to UNESCO Heritage

Introduction The duduk (Armenian: դուդուկ)—traditionally known as tsiranapogh (ծիրանափող, “apricot-wood pipe”)—is one of the most…

4 weeks ago