The study of the Armenian epigraphic heritage of the Holy Land: A bibliographical survey
Keywords:
Holy Land, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Armenian churches and monasteries, Armenian inscriptions, graffiti, Church of the Holy SepulchreAbstract
The rich Armenian epigraphic heritage of the Holy Land has long been, and continues to be, a focal point for researchers, primarily due to its antiquity, scientific significance, and, in some cases, its uniqueness. The local Armenian epigraphic heritage dates to the period following the invention of the Armenian alphabet and has continued almost uninterrupted to the present day. These inscriptions are primarily found in significant Christian holy sites, such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Basilica of the Nativity, as well as in Armenian monasteries and churches. Unsurprisingly, the highest concentration of Armenian inscriptions is found in the holy sites of Jerusalem. However, studies from the 1970s and 1980s revealed that a significant number of Armenian graffiti can also be found along the route to Sinai, a path frequented by pilgrims. Armenian inscriptions and graffiti have been documented in places such as Nazareth, Bethlehem, Jaffa, Ramleh, and several other locations. Notably, new Armenian inscriptions continue to emerge during excavations and various projects throughout the Holy Land.
Despite this rich heritage and nearly a century and a half of efforts to collect it, a comprehensive compilation that will offer a complete overview of the Armenian epigraphic heritage of the Holy Land is still lacking. In this article, we aim to summarize key previous studies and emphasize the significance of ongoing research in this field.
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