“Kerrkhach” and “Arevakhach” — The Real History of the Secret Symbols

  • by Editbeglari, May 22, 2026 in News
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In Armenian culture, the “Kerrkhach” or “Arevakhach” is considered one of the most ancient symbols of eternity, rebirth, and the continuity of life. For centuries, it has accompanied the Armenian people, appearing in petroglyphs, architecture, carpet weaving, miniature painting, and various forms of applied art.

This symbol is classified as a type of swastika. The word “swastika” originates from Sanskrit and means “well-being” or “wish for success.” In Armenian culture, it is known as the “kerrkhach” and had an exclusively positive and spiritual meaning long before it was used by Nazi Germany in the 20th century.

The sun crosses found in the ancient petroglyphs of the Geghama Mountains and Syunik regions are considered among the oldest examples of this symbol. They were often depicted through images of the sun or cosmic movement, with spiral and multi-winged forms.

In Armenian tradition, the right-turning sign was usually associated with the Sun, while the left-turning one was linked to the Moon. During the Middle Ages, the sun cross was also widely used in Armenian architecture, including on the walls of the city of Ani and in church ornamental carvings.

According to cultural scholars, the sun cross is an important component of the Armenian people’s historical memory and identity, preserved throughout millennia as a symbol of life and eternity.