Armenian Genocide Memorial Khachkar

Amidst the towering grandeur of St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney stands a poignant testament to history: the Armenian Genocide Memorial Khachkar. This intricately carved cross-stone, a gift from the Armenian community, whispers tales of resilience and remembrance. The Armenian Genocide Memorial Khachkar was unveiled and blessed in December 2018. It commemorates the horrific events of 1915, when over 1.5 million Armenians were murdered or deported from their ancestral lands. The genocide began on April 24, 1915, with the arrest and murder of Armenian leaders. The remaining population faced unspeakable atrocities. They were forced to renounce their faith or face death. The Armenian Genocide Memorial Khachkar stands as a symbol of remembrance for these victims. The khachkar is made of tuff stone, a rose-hued volcanic rock unique to Armenia. This stone is considered sacred by Armenians. Sculptor Artak Hambardzumayan meticulously hand-carved the one-tonne stele over four months. The unveiling ceremony was attended by NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, whose own grandparents were orphaned during the genocide. The Armenian Genocide Memorial Khachkar at St Mary’s Cathedral is not just a monument. It’s a living testament to the strength of the Armenian spirit. It serves as a solemn reminder of a tragic chapter in history, urging us never to forget the atrocities of the Armenian Genocide. It stands as a beacon of hope for a future free from such horrors. The Armenian Genocide Memorial Khachkar also represents gratitude from the Armenian community to St Mary’s Cathedral for hosting a commemorative liturgy in 2015. This liturgy marked the centenary of the Armenian Genocide. The presence of the Armenian Genocide Memorial Khachkar in such a prominent location ensures that the memory of the genocide is kept alive. It stands as a symbol of hope for a future where such atrocities are never repeated.