Glkhatun

an ancient type of Armenian dwelling that was widespread in mountainous regions of Armenia. It has been partially preserved in the 20th century. The glkhatun is a stone house with a stepped wooden roof supported by pillars. At the center of the vault is an opening for light and smoke, below which is an open hearth. Various auxiliary buildings are grouped about the glkhatun. Dwellings of this type were also characteristic of mountainous regions of Georgia and Azerbaijan.