Artsakh -Karabagh. Sacred architecture

Overview & Synopsis

The article presents, in the introduction, the general characteristics of the architectural heritage of Artsakh: categories of preserved constructions and technical aspects. It then briefly discusses the monuments of the beginnings of Christianity and the Middle Ages (4th-11th centuries), in particular St Grigoris mausoleum in Amaras, Tzitzernavank basilica, and the first domed churches of Okhte Drni and Vankasar. The central chapter is devoted to the feudal period (late 12th-mid 14th century). This period is marked by the rise of monastic architecture, illustrated in particular by the complexes of Gandzasar, Dadivank and Gtich. The final chapter concerns the late Middle Ages and the modern period, characterized by a combination of tradition and European-inspired innovations; there are briefly presented, among others, Yerits Mankants monastery (1691) and St Savior cathedral of Shushi (1868-1887). This part ends with observations on sculpted decoration.