Armenpress News Agency, Armenia
May 20, 2017 Saturday


 Archaeologists discover early medieval tombstones in Aghdzk excavation site



YEREVAN, MAY 20, ARMENPRESS. Archaeologists have discovered early
medieval tombstones with Mesropian writings in the excavation site of
Aghdzk village, Aragatsotn province.

Hakob Simonyan, leader of the expedition of the excavation site, told
ARMENPRESS they are currently deciphering the records.

“We didn’t have early medieval record tombstones at all”, he said.

According to him, the expedition will carry out excavation-clearing
works in the area until autumn.

“We expect to find early medieval monumental structures in this area”,
he said, adding everything will be done for Aghdzk to become one of
the most important tourism destinations in Armenia.

Last year the biggest of the three relic-chests was opened, which was
excavated by archaeologists. The chest contained relics of Armenian
Kings.

The remains of Arshakuni Kings were interred in the Aghdzk royal tomb,
which dates back to mid 4th century.

A Basilica was built near the tomb in the 5th century, which was
reconstructed in the 19th century.

According to theEpic Historieswritten by the 5th-century
historianPavstos Buzand,after KingShapur IIthe Great
ofPersiacapturedAni-Kamakh, he tried to take the remains of Armenian
Kings to Persia. By doing so, the Persians believed the glory, luck
and bravery of the Kings would be taken to them.

However, The ArmenianSparapetVassak Mamikonian defeated the Persians
in the district ofAyrarat, recapturing the treasures and bones of the
Armenian kings.