A monument to the victims of the genocide of the Armenian people in the Ottoman Empire was desecrated in the French city of Vienne.
This was reported by the Armenian embassy in France.
“We strongly condemn the act of vandalism against the Armenian cross-stone (khachkar) in Vienne. We call on the French authorities to investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement said.
The monument was smeared with paint. The khachkar is located on the territory of the Church of St. John the Baptist. According to the embassy, the French police have already begun an investigation.
This is not the first act of vandalism against Armenian monuments in France. In January 2023, a cross-stone in the city of Bourg-les-Valence was also desecrated.
Monument to the victims of the genocide of the Armenian people
The Monument to the Victims of the Genocide of the Armenian People, located in Yerevan, Armenia, is a solemn memorial complex dedicated to the 1.5 million Armenians killed during the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 under the Ottoman Empire. Officially opened in 1967, the site features a striking 44-meter-tall stele symbolizing the rebirth of the Armenian nation and an eternal flame surrounded by 12 slabs representing the lost provinces. It stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for international recognition of the genocide.
Armenian cross-stone (khachkar) in Vienne
The Armenian cross-stone, or khachkar, in Vienne, France, is a symbolic monument erected to commemorate the Armenian community’s presence and cultural heritage in the region. Installed in the 20th century, it reflects the history of Armenian diaspora settlement in France, particularly following the Armenian Genocide. This intricately carved stone cross serves as a place of remembrance and a testament to the enduring identity of Armenian people abroad.
Church of St. John the Baptist
The Church of St. John the Baptist is a historic Christian site often associated with various locations, most notably in Jerusalem, where tradition holds it marks the birthplace of John the Baptist. Its history dates back to the Byzantine era, with later Crusader and Ottoman reconstructions. The church serves as a significant pilgrimage destination, reflecting centuries of religious devotion and architectural evolution.
Cross-stone in Bourg-les-Valence
The Cross-stone in Bourg-lès-Valence is a historical monument dating back to the 16th century, originally serving as a boundary marker or a site of religious significance. Located in the Drôme department of southeastern France, it features intricate carvings and stands as a testament to the region’s medieval heritage. Today, it is preserved as a local cultural landmark, reflecting the area’s rich history and architectural traditions.
