Tombs of the Ukanants Princes

Historical Overview

In the northwestern part of the Hamazaspi Gavit, near the wall of Haghpat Monastery, lies the cemetery of the Armenian Ukanants princely family. It consists of tombstones and three small chapels located in the center, which are the main monuments of this dynasty. These structures have a unique strict style and are rare examples of medieval funerary architecture. This area is one of the most impressive and mysterious corners of the Haghpat Monastery.

The central tomb-chapel belongs to a representative of the Ukanants family, Bishop Varsegh, the abbot of Haghpat Monastery. His brother, the Armenian prince Kurd, passed away in 1220, and a chapel-tomb was built for him on the southern side. The tomb on the northern side was built in 1211 on the grave of Ukan’s grandson Najmaddin and his sons Vahram and Sambat.

Architectural Description

The chapels are arranged side by side from south to north. On the roof of each chapel, there is a khachkar, which is considered a true masterpiece of Armenian craftsmen. Currently, the khachkar in the central chapel is missing. According to the account of a 19th-century historian, it was already not in place during his time.

The entrances to the chapels are from the west. Their frames are fully adorned with beautiful carved sculptures and fine engravings. The upper parts of the western, northern, and southern walls slightly protrude and are decorated with intricate patterns. The pedestals of the khachkars on the roof are also covered with carved sculptures. Such decorative designs are characteristic only of Haghpat Monastery and are also found on the large gavit.

In front of the chapels, at ground level, are the tombstones of the representatives of the Ukanants family.

About the Ukanants Family

This family traces its origins to Ukani, who lived in the 12th century. His great-grandson, Vasak, was the husband of Vanenu, the daughter of King Khorik of the Kingdom of Lori. It is also known that Ukani’s grandson, Najmaddin, and his sons Sambat and Vahram were honored representatives of the Georgian court and were subjugated to the Armenian Zakaryan princes.