Armenian Cross

The Armenian Cross, a khachkar type, is an important cultural and religious symbol located in the park at the junction of Tsimiski and Theotokis Streets, across from the Armenian Church and the offices of the Armenian community. It was installed in 1995 as a gift from the Armenian government to the city of Thessaloniki, in recognition of the support provided to the Armenian people.

The khachkar is a stone slab featuring a cross carved in the center, surrounded by intricate designs. The artwork was created by the artist Sarkis Danelian and includes a message of gratitude to the people of Greece and America at its base.

Khachkars hold deep religious and cultural significance, representing the reverence and faith of the Armenian people in Christianity. They are typically placed in prominent locations to commemorate significant military victories or to protect against the evil eye, misfortunes, and disasters. Additionally, they served as votive offerings for the salvation of the soul of a living or deceased person, making them important monuments in Armenian tradition.

The Armenian Cross is situated in a central area of Thessaloniki, offering visitors the opportunity to appreciate the art and history it represents while connecting the local community with the rich culture of the Armenians.