06/13/2026
Our next stop takes us to a site that was shrouded in mystery for a long time: the Jewish Cemetery of Yeghegis.
It is located on the southern edge of the village next to the Yeghegis River. You must use a small bridge to cross the river to get to the site.
While there is no definite historical evidence proving the existence of Jewish communities in Yeghegis and other parts of Armenia, this site tells a fascinating story. The gravestones were only discovered between 1997-1998, and excavations led by Professor Michael Stone and Dr. D. Amit between 2000-2003 revealed 64 whole gravestones and many fragments.
As you walk through the fenced territory near the woody forest, take a close look at the stones. Ten of them carry inscriptions in Hebrew and Aramaic, dating from 1266 to 1346. It is interesting to see that similarities between these and Armenian gravestones prove that the local Jewish community had adopted local cultural norms and traditions.
The inscriptions on the stones are also unique. They aren't just facts about a person's death; many are artistic and poetic statements. You can find some of the translations on the sign post at the entrance.
Certain parts of the site other than have been cleared of the trees and bushes, but other spots are kind of still in the forested areas. Can see how they used to look before they were discovered and why it took so long for them to be rediscovered.
The site has been open to the public for pilgrimage and official visits since May 2009.
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