The khachkar of Bjni

This khachkar stands in the historic village of Bjni in Kotayk Province. It is one of the finest and most accomplished examples of medieval Armenian sculpture. Bjni is known for its mineral waters and for the 11th-century church complex of Surb Astvatsatsin. The village stretches along the bank of the Hrazdan River, surrounded by orchards and rocks.

In the central arched field of the khachkar is a cross with leaf-shaped ends and a rosette at its centre, with small figures on both sides of its base. Below the cross, small crosses stand in a row of arches, and further down is a large round rosette. The side panels are filled with crosses and interlace ornament, and inscriptions are carved on the upper cornice and in small frames.