About Armenia

Armenia is a small, landlocked country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, where Europe and Asia meet. It has a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes.

Here are some key points about Armenia:

Geography

• Location: Bordered by Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Iran to the south, and Turkey to the west.
• Size: Covers an area of about 29,743 square kilometers.
• Capital: Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
• Landscape: Dominated by mountains, high plateaus, and river valleys. The highest point is Mount Aragats (4,090 meters). Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, is a major natural landmark.

Population

• Population: Approximately 3 million people (as of recent estimates).
• Ethnic Composition: Predominantly Armenian (over 98%), with small minority groups such as Yazidis, Russians, and Kurds.
• Language: The official language is Armenian, which has its own unique alphabet created in 405 AD.
• Religion: Most Armenians belong to the Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the oldest Christian churches.

Economy

• Armenia’s economy relies on industries like mining (copper, molybdenum), agriculture, and IT.
• Tourism is an emerging sector, attracting visitors with its historical sites, mountainous landscapes, and unique culture.
• It is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

History

• Armenia is one of the oldest countries in the world, with a history dating back over 3,000 years.
• In 301 AD, Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion.
• The country has a rich cultural heritage, including ancient monasteries, churches, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Geghard Monastery and the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral.
• The Armenian Genocide of 1915-1917, perpetrated by the Ottoman Empire, is a defining event in modern Armenian history.

Culture

• Cuisine: Features dishes like khorovats (barbecue), dolma, lavash (traditional flatbread), and Armenian brandy.
• Music and Dance: Rich traditions of folk music and dances, often accompanied by instruments like the duduk, which is recognized by UNESCO.
• Arts and Literature: Renowned for its medieval illuminated manuscripts and influential writers like Hovhannes Tumanyan.

Tourism Highlights

• Historical Sites:
• Garni Temple: A Greco-Roman pagan temple.
• Tatev Monastery: Accessible via the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway.
• Natural Wonders:
    • Lake Sevan
    • Dilijan National Park
    • Cave of Birds (Areni-1): One of the oldest wineries in the world was discovered here.

Interesting Facts

• The apricot is considered Armenia’s national fruit, and its color is reflected in the national flag.
• Chess is a mandatory subject in schools.
• Armenians take great pride in their diaspora, which numbers around 8-10 million worldwide.