ՄԱԼԽԱՍԵԱՆ ՀԱՅԿ / MALKHASIAN HAYK
(arm)
«Զօրաց Քարեր» Յուշարձանի Ուսումնասիրութեան Որոշ Նոր Արդիւնքներ 
Some new results of the study of “Zorats Qarer” Megalithic monument (platform 2) 

Bazmavep 2021 / 3-4, pp. 149-199

One of the observation platforms (Platform 2) we discovered in 2020 at the ''Zorats Qarer'' megalithic monument is thoroughly analyzed here. It is lo­cated in the northern wing of the megalithic row and is related to N 158 and 160 menhirs, clearly indicating two directions on the northern horizon. In ad­dition, it was found that the same stone N158 has two observation angles on it, which are also studied. Comparisons have been made between menhir N158 and the previously identified N197 and 198 angular stones. In general, the bright stars visible in 4 distinct directions are discussed depending on the time, and the results are combined with the data obtained before (Gr. Broutian, H. Mal­kha­syan, 2021). The relations of the most likely observed stars and their mytho­lo­gical characters have been analyzed in detail, combined with Armenian (as well as other nations) folklore and ethnography, religious-ritual (as well as Christian) and calendar facts, the stages of the culture of cereal cultivation, as well as archeological material known in the Armenian Highlands. The results of a comprehensive comparative research have made it possible to conclude that the Platform 2, and the stones N158 and 160 in operation with it were used in 9000 BC as ancient observational tools, which is the time the Armenian Protohaykian calendar originated.