The crosses Held in the collection of the Diyarbakır Archeology Museum

The cross, which constitutes a significant group among liturgical artifacts, is one of the most important religious symbols in the Christian world. It symbolizes Jesus Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, and victory, and is believed to possess sacred power. In Christian belief, the cross has become a symbol of human salvation and, over time, has taken its place as an indispensable element in religious ceremonies, military rituals, and victory celebrations. Additionally, this symbol, which is used in different forms by various denominations, offers important insights into the social, political, artistic, and religious structures of Christian societies. In this respect, the cross has gone beyond being merely a religious object and has become a means of cultural expression, gaining many different meanings and functions throughout history. This study provides a comprehensive examination of twenty-seven liturgical artifacts bearing cross symbols housed in the Diyarbakir Archaeology Museum. These artifacts include pectoral crosses, reliquary crosses and processional crosses. The works have been arranged chronologically, classified by form, and examined in technical detail. This detailed scholarly study aims to contribute to the limited existing research on these artifacts and enhance their recognition and understanding. Within this scope, the technical features, materials used, decorative elements, and iconographic meanings of the pieces have been analysed to offer a scientific description and cultural interpretation. Due to the large number of liturgical artifacts in the museum, the study focuses solely on the cross-bearing artifacts selected and approved by the museum. Through these pieces, material preferences, technical details, and design characteristics were evaluated to gain insights into the economic conditions, cultural interactions, artistic understanding, and religious-spiritual structure of the period. Furthermore, the role of these liturgical objects in worship and daily life, their functions in ceremonies, and the concepts they symbolize were analysed to highlight their significance within the religious and cultural context of the Diyarbakir region. Keywords: Cross, Liturgical Artifacts, Christian Art, Diyarbakir Archaeology Museum, Iconography