In the remote splendour of the high, green mountains of Kelbadjar, Kharabakh, an Armenian archaeological expedition is uncovering fantastic ancient Armenian monastical treasures.

There is a team of three highly respected Armenian and Artsakh archaeologists leading the excavations: Mr. Hamled Petrossian, Archaeologist and group leader, Mr. Vartkes Safaryan, Archeologist and Ms. Louda Kirakossian, Architect. They will continue their mission until 30th August, 2004.

The monastery, located up a steep and gorgeous climb, is notable due to certain rare design and decorational features, combined with the fact that it is believed to be the most prestigious of its type in the surrounding region. Certain inscriptions on one khatchkar suggest that the actual monastery itself dates from the 12th century.

The monastery is in the Kelbadjar region of Kharabakh, a region of historical Armenia, which has been in Armenian hands since 1993.

In the desire by Armenia and Azerbaijan to convince the on-looking International Community of the justness of their separate causes, the conflict has morphed into various non-military spheres. The sphere in question here is the historical accuracy of the anthropology of the area, as both sides wish to prove their ancestral claim to the land.

With the resettlement of Armenians in a village nearby, the project also offers employment to the locals, and a chance to re-forge their spiritual links with the land.

There have been over 50 khatchkars found at the site. This is an indication as to what was its commanding position in society. Some of the earliest examples even date from the 9th century, and have simple characteristics when compared to some of the more intricate and ornate designs that grace other parts of the site.

Around the site also lie the piles of cut-stones and tiles, with which the plans are to reconstruct the structure of the monastery, with its bell-tower, which have fallen into ruin and disrepair; this will compliment the planned restoration of the artistic artefacts that have been found.

Detailed analysis of the site has been taken, and it has been estimate that it will take 2 or 3 years, with elaborate care and the current level of labour, to achieve the ambition of restoring the monastery for the public. Also in the vicinity is a mountain-top fortress, which will be a twin attraction.

The archaeological digs are the initiative of YERKIR, (Union of Non-Governmental Organizations for Repatriation and Settlement) and were made possible through sponsorship of Hartounian family (New Jersey, USA).