You can see Wishing Trees in many locations across Armenia. Typically they are found close to churches, monasteries and chapels, and frequently close to a stream or riverbed. Legend has it that a wish will come true after a person ties his or her handkerchief to a tree branch and walks around the tree seven times. Each handkerchief represents a wish or a prayer that the supplicant hopes will be granted by God.

In Armenia, the wish tree tradition is very old. Churches and monasteries were built, starting in the 4th century AD, after Christianity was proclaimed the state religion in 301 AD. To this day, near many ancient churchyards and small roadside chapels, you can see a tree that is festooned with handkerchiefs and rags.

I found this wishing tree beside the Azat River bed near Geghard Monastery, with its beautiful and ancient chapel built into the rock mountainside.

Did I make a wish myself? You bet I did!

Take the road less traveled,

Beth

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