SEARCH RESULTS

This brief article is an excerpt from Thomas Wright's book, "The Travels of Marco Polo The Venetian." In the chapters presented below, Marco Polo shares insights about Armenia. The author includes useful footnotes that clarify many archaic names of Armenian locations. < Back Marco Polo about Armenia This brief article is an excerpt from Thomas Wright's book, "The Travels of Marco Polo The Venetian." In the chapters presented below, Marco Polo shares insights about Armenia. The author includes useful footnotes that clarify many archaic names of Armenian locations. Marco Polo, a renowned Venetian merchant and explorer of the 13th century, embarked on a journey from Europe to Asia. Spending 17 years in China, he served as an envoy and diplomat for Kublai Khan, the Mongol emperor. Polo documented his extensive travels in a book titled "The Travels of Marco Polo," offering detailed accounts of his experiences, observations, and insights into the culture, geography, politics, and economy of China and other lands. His influential work inspired subsequent travelers and explorers, including Christopher Columbus. Intrigued by Polo's perspective on Armenia, this blog post features an extract from his book (The Travels Of Marco Polo The Venetian by Thomas Wright). Mosaic of Marco Polo displayed in the Palazzo Doria-Tursi, Genoa, Italy Chapter II. Of Armenia Minor—Of the Port of Laiassus—And of the Boundaries of the Province. IN commencing the description of the countries which Marco Polo visited in Asia, and of things worthy of notice which he observed therein, it is proper to mention that we are to distinguish two Armenias, the Lesser and the Greater. 1 The king of the Lesser Armenia dwells in a city called Sebastoz, 2 and rules his dominions with strict regard to justice. The towns, fortified places, and castles are numerous. There is abundance of all necessaries of life, as well as of those things which contribute to its comfort. Game, both of beasts and birds, is in plenty. It must be said, however, that the air of the country is not remarkably healthy. In former times its gentry were esteemed expert and brave soldiers; but at the present day they are great drinkers, pusillanimous, and worthless. On the sea−coast there is a city named Laiassus, 3 a place of considerable traffic. Its port is frequented by merchants from Venice, Genoa, and many other places, who trade in spiceries and drugs of different sorts, manufactures of silk and of wool, and other rich commodities. Those persons who design to travel into the interior of the Levant, 4 usually proceed in the first instance to this port of Laiassus. The boundaries of the Lesser Armenia are, on the south, the Land of Promise, now occupied by the Saracens; 5 on the north, Karamania, inhabited by Turkomans; towards the north−east lie the cities of Kaisariah, Sevasta, 6 and many others subject to the Tartars; and on the western side it is bounded by the sea, which extends to the shores of Christendom. 1 This distinction of the Armenias into the Greater and the Lesser, is conformable to what we find in Ptolemy and the geographers of the middle ages; although other divisions have taken place since that part of Asia has been subject to the Ottoman empire. The Les en Armenia is defined by Büsching as comprehending that part of Cappadocia and Cilicia which lies along the western side of the Greater Armenia, and also on the western side of the Euphrates. That in the days of Haiton it extended south of Taurus, and included Cilicia (campestris), which was not the case in more ancient times, we have the unexceptionable authority of that historian. 2 As it appears from the passage quoted in the preceding note, as well as from other authorities, that Sîs was the capital of the Lesser Armenia during the reigns of the Leons and Haitons, we are led to suppose the Sebastoz here mentioned to have been the ancient name of that city, or of one that stood on the same site. It is obvious, indeed, from the geography of Ptolemy, that there were many places in Asia Minor that bore the names of Sebastia, Sebaste, and Sebastopolis (besides one in Syria), and in his enumeration of the towns of Cilicia, we find a Sebaste, to which, in the Latin translation, published at Venice in 1562, the epithet of “augusta” is annexed. Upon the foundations of this, Leon I. (from whom the country is called by the Arabians, Belad Leon, as well as Belad Sîs), may have built the modern city, and the Greek name may have been still prevalent. We are told, however, that the city which preceded Sis, as the capital of Armenia Minor, was named Messis, Massis, or Massissa, the ancient Mopsuestia, and it must be confessed that if authority was not in opposition to conjecture, the sound of these names might lead us to suppose that the modern name was only an abbreviation of Mes−sis, and Sebastoz a substitution for Mopsueste. In a subsequent part of the chapter the city of Sevasta or Sevaste, the modern Siwas or Sivas, is spoken of under circumstances that appear to distinguish it entirely from the Armenian capital; having been recently conquered by the Moghuls from the Seljuk princes. 3 Lajazzo, or Aïas, is situated in a low, morassy country, formed by the alluvion of the two rivers Sihon and Jihon (of Cilicia), and (as observed to me by Major Rennell) at the present mouth of the latter. Its trade has been transferred to Alexandretta or Scanderoon, on the opposite or Syrian side of the gulf. 4 Levant is a translation of the word Anatolia or Anadoli, from the Greek “ortus, oriens,” signifying the country that lies eastward from Greece. As the name of a region therefore it should be equivalent to Natolia, in its more extensive acceptation; and it is evident that our author employs it to denote Asia Minor. Smyrna is at present esteemed the principal port in the Levant, and the term seems to be now confined to the sea−coast and to mercantile usage. 5 For the Land of Promise, or Palestine, which extends no further to the north than Tyre, is here to be understood Syria, or that part of it called Cælo−Syria, which borders on Cilicia or the southern part of Armenia Minor. As the more general denomination of Syria includes Palestine, and the latter name was, in the time of the Crusades, more familiar to Europeans than the former, it is not surprising that they should sometimes be confounded. The Saracens here spoken of were the subjects of the Mameluk sultans or soldans of Egypt, who recovered from the Christian powers in Syria, what the princes of the family of Saladin, or of the Ayubite dynasty, had lost. In other parts of the work the term is employed indiscriminately with that of Mahometan. 6 The Turkomans of Karamania were a race of Tartars settled in Asia Minor, under the government of the Seljuk princes, of whom an account will be found in the following note. Kaisariah or Cæsarea, and Sevasta or Sebaste, the Sebastopolis Cappadociæ of Ptolemy and Siwas or Sivas of the present day, were cities belonging to the same dynasty, that had been conquered by the Moghuls in the year 1242. Chapter III. Of the Province called Turkomania, where are the Cities of Kogni, Kaisariah, and Sevasta, and of its Commerce. THE inhabitants of Turkomania 1 may be distinguished into three classes. The Turkomans, who reverence Mahomet and follow his law, are a rude people, and dull of intellect. They dwell amongst the mountains and in places difficult of access, where their object is to find good pasture for their cattle, as they live entirely upon animal food. There is here an excellent breed of horses which has the appellation of Turki, and fine mules which are sold at high prices. 2 The other classes are Greeks and Armenians, who reside in the cities and fortified places, and gain their living by commerce and manufacture. The best and handsomest carpets in the world are wrought here, and also silks of crimson and other rich colours. 3 Amongst its cities are those of Kogni, Kaisariah, and Sevasta, in which last Saint Blaise obtained the glorious crown of martyrdom. 4 They are all subject to the great khan, emperor of the Oriental Tartars, who appoints governors to them. 5 We shall now speak of the Greater Armenia. 1 By Turkomania we are to understand, generally, the possessions of the great Seljuk dynasty in Asia Minor, extending from Cilicia and Pamphylia, in the south, to the shores of the Euxine sea, and from Pisidia and Mysia, in the west, to the borders of Armenia Minor; including the greater part of Phrygia and Cappadocia, together with Pontus, and particularly the modern provinces of Karamania and Rumiyah, or the country of Rûm. Of the former of these, the capital. was Iconium, corrupted by the oriental writers to Kuniyah, and by those of the Crusades to Kogni; of the latter, Sebaste or Sebastopolis, corrupted to Siwas or Sivas. The chief from whom the dynasty of Seljuks derived its appellation, was by birth a Turkoman, of Turkistan, on the north−eastern side of the river Sihon or Jaxartes, but in the service of a prince of Khozar, on the Wolga, from which he fled and pursued his fortune in Transoxiana; as did some of his family in Khorasan. Having acquired great celebrity, they were at length enabled, by the means of numerous tribes of Turkomans who joined their standard, to establish a sovereignty, or, in point of extent, an empire, the principal seat of which was in Persia. Another branch, about the year 1080, wrested the fine provinces of Asia Minor from the Greek emperors, and formed the kingdom of which we are now speaking. Through its territory the Christian princes repeatedly forced their way in their progress to the Holy Land, and it is computed by historians that not fewer than six hundred thousand men perished in this preliminary warfare. At length the power of the Seljuks yielded to the overwhelming influence of the house of Jengiz−khan, and in our author's time they were reduced to insignificance; but from their ruins sprang the empire of the Ottomans, the founder of which had been in the service of one of the last sultans of Iconium. 2 The pastoral habits of the Turkoman Tartars are preserved to this day, even in Asia Minor, and the distinction of their tribes subsists also. The Turki breed of horses is esteemed throughout the East, for spirit and hardiness. 3 “Et ibi fiunt soriani et tapeti pulchriores de mundo et pulchrioris coloris" are the words of the Latin text. 4 “Blaise, bishop of Sebasta, in Cappadocia, in the second and third centuries,” says the Biographical Dictionary, “suffered death under Diocletian, by decapitation, after being whipped and having his flesh torn with iron combsIt is difficult to say how the invention (of wool combing) came to be attributed to him; but it had probably no better origin than the circumstance of his being tortured with the instruments used in the combing of wool.” 5 It is the family of Hulagu, and the tribes who followed his standard from the north, whom our author always designates by the name of Oriental Tartars, to distinguish them from the descendants of Batu, who settled near the Wolga, on the north−western side of the Caspian, and extended their conquests towards Europe; whilst the former entered Persia from the Eastern quarter, by the way of Transexiana and Khorasan. Chapter IV. Of Armenia Major, in which are the Cities of Arzingan, Argiron, and Darziz—Of the Castle of Paipurth—Of the Mountain where the Ark of Noah rested—Of the Boundaries of the Province—And of a remarkable Fountain of Oil. ARMENIA Major is an extensive province, at the entrance of which is a city named Arzingan, 1 where there is a manufacture of very fine cotton cloth called bombazines, 2 as well as of many other curious fabrics, which it would be tedious to enumerate. It possesses the handsomest and most excellent baths of warm water, issuing from the earth, that are anywhere to be found. 3 Its inhabitants are for the most part native Armenians, but under the dominion of the Tartars. In this province there are many cities, but Arzingan is the principal, and the seat of an archbishop; and the next in consequence are Argiron 4 and Darziz. 5 It is very extensive, and, in the summer season, the station of a part of the army of the Eastern Tartars, on account of the good pasture it affords for their cattle; but on the approach of winter they are obliged to change their quarters, the fall of snow being so very deep that the horses could not find subsistence, and for the sake of warmth and fodder they proceed to the southward. Within a castle named Paipurth, 6 which you meet with in going from Trebisond to Tauris, there is a rich mine of silver. 7 In the central part of Armenia stands an exceedingly large and high mountain, upon which, it is said, the ark of Noah rested, and for this reason it is termed the mountain of the ark. 8 The circuit of its base cannot be compassed in less than two days. The ascent is impracticable on account of the snow towards the summit, which never melts, but goes on increasing by each successive fall. In the lower region, however, near the plain, the melting of the snow fertilizes the ground, and occasions such an abundant vegetation, that all the cattle which collect there in summer from the neighbouring country, meet with a never−failing supply. 9 Bordering upon Armenia, to the south−west, are the districts of Mosul and Maredin, which shall be described hereafter, and many others too numerous to particularize. To the north lies Zorzania, near the confines of which there is a fountain of oil which discharges so great a quantity as to furnish loading for many camels. 10 The use made of it is not for the purpose of food, but as an unguent for the cure of cutaneous distempers in men and cattle, as well as other complaints; and it is also good for burning. In the neighbouring country no other is used in their lamps, and people come from distant parts to procure it. 1 Arzengân, or, as written by the Arabians, who have not the Persian g, Arzenjân, is a city near the frontier of Rumiyah, but just within the limits of Armenia Major. “Cette ville,” says D'Herbelot, “appartient plutôt à l'Arménie, et fut prise par les Mogols ou Tartares l an 640 de l'Hégire, de J. C. 1242, après la défaite de Kaikhosrou, fils d'Aladin le Selgiucide, aussi bien que les villes de Sébaste et de Césarée.” By an oriental geographer it is said to be, “Oppidum celeberrimum, elegans, amænum, copiosum bonis rebus, incolisque: pertinens ad Armeniam: inter Rumæas provincias et Chalatam situm, haud procul Arzerroumo: esseque incolas ejus maixmam partem Armenios” Alberti Schultens Index Geographicus in Vitam Saladini. Josaphat Barbaro, a Venetian, who travelled into Persia, in the fifteenth century, speaks of Arsengan as a place that had formerly been of consequence, but was then mostly in ruins. 2 The name of a species of cloth which I have here translated “bombazine,” is in the Italian of Ramusio, “bochassini di bambagio,” and in the Latin versions “buchiranus, buchyramis, and bucaramus.” Its substance or texture is not clearly explained in our dictionaries. That of Cotgrave, printed in 1611, defines “boccasin,” to be “a kind of fine buckeram, that hath a resemblance of taffata, and is much used for lining; also the stuffe callimanco.” But this, it is evident, cannot apply to a manufacture of bombagio or cotton; and the Vocabolario della Crusca, as well as the Glossary of Du Cange, speak of “bucherame bianchissima,” and “bucherame bambagino,” and both of them quote our author for the use of the word. All the examples convey the idea of fine, white, and soft cotton cloth; the reverse of what is now called buckram. The early Latin text speaks of boccorame and bambace as two distinct things. 3 Natural warm baths are found in many parts of Asia Minor, and particularly near Ancyra, the modern Angora or Anguri, which are still much frequented. Their situation is denoted by the word Thermæ, in Rennell's map explanatory of the Retreat of the Ten thousand. They are also spoken of at Teflis in Georgia; The Travels of Marco Polo, the Venetian 35 but of their existence at Arzengan I have not been able to find notice in the works of the Eastern geographers. 4 Argiron, or, in the Latin versions, Argyron, is a corruption of Arzerrûm, Erzerûm, or Arzen er−rûm, a distinctive name given to a city called Arzen, as being the last strong place, in that direction, belonging to the Greek empire. “Arzerrûm,” says Abulfeda, “est extremus finis regionum Rumæorum ab oriente. In ejus orientali et septentrionali latere est fons Euphratis.” 5 Darziz, which in the Basle edition is Darzirim, in the older Latin, Arziu, and in the Italian epitomes, Arciri and Arziri, is the town now called Arjîs, situated on the border of the Lake Van, anciently named Arsissa palus. “Argish,” says Macdonald Kinneir, “is a town containing six thousand inhabitants, situated on the north−west side of the lake, three days' journey from Van. There are four islands in the lake, on one of which is an Armenian monastery, and three hundred priests.” Memoir of the Persian Empire, pp. 328, 329. These places, it may be observed, lay in our author's returning route, from Tauris to Trebisond. 6 Paipurth, the Baiburt of D' Anville's and Rennell's maps, is situated among the mountains, in a northerly direction from Arzerrûm. As the word purt signifies a castle in the Armenian language, and as the Arabian geographers, from not having the letter p in their alphabet, are obliged to substitute the b, it is probable that the former is the more genuine orthography. This castle is particularly noted by Josaphat Barbaro, who says, “Partendo d' essa (Trabisonda) per andar à Thaurisil primo luogo notabile che si trova, è uno castello in piano in una valle d' ognitorno circondata da monti, nominato Baiburth, castel forte e muratoCinque giornate piu in la, si trova ArsenganPoi si ritrova un castello nominato Carpurth.”—Viaggio in Persia, p. 48, ed. 1545, 12mo. 7 Although this particular mine may have been exhausted, silver mines are known to exist in this part of Armenia. 8 The mountain of Armenia (the Ararat of Scripture) upon which the ark is believed by the Christians of that country to have rested, stands not far from the city of Erivan or Irwân. The Mahometans, however, assign to it a different situation. “L'opinion commune des Orientaux,” says D'Herbelot, “est que l'arche de Noë s'arrêta sur la montagne de Gioudi, qui est une des croupes du mont Taurus ou Gordiæus en Arménie, et cette tradition est autorisé en ce pays−là par plusieurs histoires qui approchent fort de la fable.” “Joudi,” says Ibn Haukal, “is a mountain near Nisibin. It is said that the ark of Noah (to whom be peace,) rested on the summit of this mountain.” Ouseley's translation, p. 60. Major Rennell observes, that Jeudi is the part of the Carduchian mountains opposite to the Jezirat ibn Omar, and that the dervishes keep a light burning there, in honour of Noah and his ark. 9 This fertility of the country in the vicinity of the mountains, is noticed by Moses Chorenensis, who says, “Habet autem Araratia montes camposque, atque omnem fæcunditatem.”—Geographia, p. 361. 10 Springs of petroleum or earth (properly, rock) oil, are found in many parts of the world. The spring or fountain here spoken of is that of Baku in Shirvan, on the border of the Caspian. “Near to this place,” says John Cartwright, in what are termed the Preacher's Travels, “is a very strange and wonderful fountain under ground, out of which there springeth and issueth a marvellous quantity of black oyl, which serveth all the parts of Persia to burn in their houses; and they usually carry it all over the country upon kine and asses, whereof you shall oftentimes meet three or four hundred in company.”—Oxford Coll. of Voyages, vol. i. (vii.) p. 731. Strahlenberg speaks of this as a spring of white naphtha, which he distinguishes from the black sort of bitumen; but the most satisfactory account of both white and black naphtha in this district is given by Kæmpfer, in his Amænitates Exoticæ, p. 274−281. Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”

Few urban explorers have visited this Godforsaken place, we were lucky to find it. An abandoned pioneer camp perched deep in the woods made a huge impression... Today, it is one of the destinations included in my urban explorer tours. < Back An urbex tour to an abandoned pioneer camp Few urban explorers have visited this Godforsaken place, we were lucky to find it. An abandoned pioneer camp perched deep in the woods made a huge impression... Today, it is one of the destinations included in my urban explorer tours. In Soviet times, there were 200 pioneer camps in Armenia, but after the collapse of the Soviet Union, only about 10 of them managed to survive. These pioneer camps were mainly located outside the cities, nestled in the woods. Today, these once vibrant places have become abandoned, with thick bushes overgrown around them, making them perfect for urban explorations. Mysterious looking stairs led us to the once prosperous pioneer camp Finally, in the midst of September, I decided to stop procrastinating and joined popular urban explorer, Avarathewanderer , on a journey to the North of Armenia to explore one of these previously prosperous pioneer camps. After wandering around for some time, we eventually located the camp and strolled down a beautiful alley that led us to it. The walls are decorated with paintings from famous Soviet cartoons... Reminds me of Pushkin's poem "The Tale of the Fisherman and the Fish" Although the buildings were still standing, the relentless passage of time had taken its toll, causing them to gradually deteriorate. We came across an open-air canteen adorned with walls featuring paintings of famous characters from Soviet cartoons. In some places, the walls were even decorated with frescoes. Overall, it was a captivating place that was well worth visiting. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva The Cemetery of German POWs in Gyumri This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Previous Next

This narrative takes you on an urban exploration mission to a Soviet-era intercontinental radio station in Armenia, intertwined with an unexpected discussion about the Duga radar. Discover the site’s historical significance, its role in Cold War-era broadcasts, and its current enigmatic state. < Back From Duga Radars to Intercontinental Radio Rebroadcasting Station in Armenia This narrative takes you on an urban exploration mission to a Soviet-era intercontinental radio station in Armenia, intertwined with an unexpected discussion about the Duga radar. Discover the site’s historical significance, its role in Cold War-era broadcasts, and its current enigmatic state. I still vividly recall the day I first stepped into this place. Although I had known about it, my habit of procrastination kept me away until now. On this urbex mission with a French photographer Damien, I found myself unexpectedly drawn into a conversation about the Duga radar. For those unfamiliar, the Duga radar , also known as the " Russian Woodpecker, " was a Soviet over-the-horizon radar system from the Cold War, designed for early missile detection and intelligence gathering. Built in the 1970s near Chernobyl, Ukraine, the massive structure stood approximately 150 meters tall and 700 meters long, emitting a distinctive tapping sound on shortwave frequencies that earned it its nickname. In the territory of the Intercontinental Radio Station When Damien was telling about Duga, in the distance, the towering antennas of an intercontinental radio station were visible. I asked Demien, "Why did you suddenly start talking about Duga? Did you see something similar?" He replied, “No… What should I see?” Pointing towards the horizon, I showed him the antennas. "Wait, what's that?" he asked. I replied, "Man, it’s no coincidence you remembered Duga. Let's check this out!" The entire territory was densely covered with a complex network of antennas We soon found ourselves exploring this remarkable site, partially active and filled with control boards of otherworldly design. This intercontinental radio station, established in 1965, once rebroadcast to the Middle East, Turkey, the Caucasus, and Central Asia using high-power 1000 kW transmitters with directional and omnidirectional antennas. The control rooms were a true paradise—a dream destination for every urban explorer. During Soviet times, this station jammed Western broadcasts such as “The Voice of America” while propagating communist ideology across the Middle East and Afghanistan. Even today, the radio center continues to transmit unknown content to other countries, with its massive tube equipment still running hot, a testament to its enduring presence and mysterious purpose. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva The Cemetery of German POWs in Gyumri This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Previous Next

Went for a solo hike to explore the lesser-known Tghit Cyclopean fortress in Armenia. Despite its close proximity to the capital, Yerevan, it remains relatively undiscovered. Nevertheless, this enigmatic destination promises outdoor explorers an enjoyable and mysterious trip! < Back Megalithic walls of Tghit cyclopean fortress Went for a solo hike to explore the lesser-known Tghit Cyclopean fortress in Armenia. Despite its close proximity to the capital, Yerevan, it remains relatively undiscovered. Nevertheless, this enigmatic destination promises outdoor explorers an enjoyable and mysterious trip! This week, I had a very interesting solo hike to the Tghit Cyclopean Fortress. As for me, I simply adore unpopular hiking destinations and finding myself off the map. Being in this remote fortress felt like I was an old-time explorer hunting for treasure! The treasure I found was the fortress itself, the dense woods that I struggled to pass through, and the unforgettable moments that will never fade from my memory. After conquering the fortress I am exploring the settlements lying down in the valley... Tghit is a Late Bronze and Early Iron Age fortress located 2.5 km west of Tegehnik village in the Kotayk region, on one of the wooded peaks of the Tsaghkunyats mountain range. It was discovered in 1975 by the joint archaeological expedition of the Institutes of Art, Archaeology, and Ethnography of the Academy of Sciences of the Armenian SSR and the Armenian Studies Center of Yerevan University. The fortress comprises a walled settlement, a reservoir, and tombs, covering an area of approximately 1 hectare. I stood there, gazing in wonder, contemplating how our ancestors managed to build walls that have stood for thousands of years. In some places, the preserved parts of the walls and towers exceed 6 meters in height. The main gate is approximately 5 meters wide and two existing entrances are still intact. The width of walls surprises and speaks about the strength of the fortress! Located on the north-western perimeter, an ancient reservoir once served as a vital water source, catering to the castle's needs for sustenance and irrigation. Although extensive excavations have not been conducted on the site thus far, it beckons further exploration and study to unravel its secrets and shed light on this ancient civilization's remarkable accomplishments. All in all this was a wonderful hike and hope that this article and my videos published on social networks will boost the interest towards this destinations! Let it become a popular hiking destination in Armenia! Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”

Explore the Nemesis Monument, a fountain-memorial in Yerevan's Circular Park, dedicated to the heroes of the 1919 Nemesis operation. Unveiled on April 25, 2023, with grandeur, the monument features the names of courageous figures like Soghomon Tehlirian and Artashes Gevorgyan. Symbolizing national resilience and justice, it commemorates the victims of the Armenian Genocide. This poignant piece of art serves as a reminder that crimes against humanity must not be overlooked, echoing the Armenian people's determination to seek justice and restore dignity to their nation. < Back Nemesis Monument in Yerevan Explore the Nemesis Monument, a fountain-memorial in Yerevan's Circular Park, dedicated to the heroes of the 1919 Nemesis operation. Unveiled on April 25, 2023, with grandeur, the monument features the names of courageous figures like Soghomon Tehlirian and Artashes Gevorgyan. Symbolizing national resilience and justice, it commemorates the victims of the Armenian Genocide. This poignant piece of art serves as a reminder that crimes against humanity must not be overlooked, echoing the Armenian people's determination to seek justice and restore dignity to their nation. Nearly a century after the Armenian Genocide, a sculpture honoring the heroes of the "Nemesis" initiative solemnly opened in the fourth segment of Circular Park. The Council of Elders decided to place the monument, with descendants of the Armenian Genocide revengers submitting the petition for its installation. Architect T. Barseghyan designed the Nemesis monument, commemorating the heroes who organized and executed the Nemesis operation in 1919. The monument, opened on April 25, 2023, is a powerful reminder of the Armenian Genocide and the imperative to seek justice for its victims. Nemesis Monument in Circular Park, Yerevan The names of those involved in Nemesis operation, including Soghomon Tehleryan, Aram Erkanyan, Armen Garo, Grigor Merjanov, Ara Sargsyan, Avetik Isahakyan, Hrach Papazyan, Shahan Natali, Hakob Melkumov, Yervand Fundukyan, Misak Torlakyan, Arshavir Shirakyan, Arshak Yezdanyan, Stepan Tsaghikyan, Artashes Gevorgyan, Petros Ter Poghosyan are inscribed on the monument. The implementers of Nemesis were intellectual Armenians, the best and most responsible, whose graves are scattered worldwide. The monument symbolizes the will of the Armenian nation and the quest for justice. The courage of those honored has three main meanings: the execution of criminals, providing positivity to the depressed, and emphasizing that historical crimes go unpunished despite international attitudes. A beautiful piece of art, the monument stands as a testament to the bravery and determination of the Armenian people in seeking justice for the Armenian Genocide victims. Visit this powerful symbol of remembrance and justice, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Armenian people. Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”

Karen Aghamyan's "Progress" mosaic, created in 1983, is a well-preserved and even restored work of art. It is located inside “Zangak” book store on Komitas avenue, Yerevan, and I personally find it to be one of the best mosaics of the Soviet period. < Back Karen Aghamyan's Mesmerizing Mosaic Inside “Zangak” Bookstore Karen Aghamyan's "Progress" mosaic, created in 1983, is a well-preserved and even restored work of art. It is located inside “Zangak” book store on Komitas avenue, Yerevan, and I personally find it to be one of the best mosaics of the Soviet period. Yuri Gagarin's historic spaceflight in 1961 was not just a scientific triumph for the Soviet Union; it became a cultural phenomenon that left a lasting impact on Soviet art. The depiction of the cosmos, cosmonauts, and spaceships became integral themes for Soviet artists, giving birth to a new movement in art. Soviet art often portrayed space exploration not merely as a scientific feat but as a symbol of the superiority of the socialist system. The holistic image of the "Progress" mosaic is truly captivating. I was fortunate to visit the bookstore just after its reconstruction, when the shelves were still empty, providing an unobstructed view. However, the presence of columns made it challenging to capture a satisfactory photograph. Eye-catching posters, frescoes, statues, mosaics, and bas-reliefs emerged, featuring astronauts, spaceships, and celestial bodies in bold colors and dynamic compositions. These works were designed to inspire the public and promote Soviet achievements. Today, these surviving pieces offer a portal to a Soviet past that was striving toward the future. In this article, we will focus on one such mosaic. This expansive mosaic consists of three images. Let's explore it from the left side. The first figure is an astronaut in a spacesuit, floating in space. The figure is rendered in a stylized manner, with the background showcasing abstract patterns and shapes that suggest motion and depth. The second figure is reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man, suggesting a blend of human anatomy and geometric perfection. It appears as though emerging from a seashell. Seashells are often associated with love and fertility. Could this be a reference to birth and new life? The third part portrays a naked male figure with arms and wings outstretched, appearing to be levitating in the air. This can symbolize human aspiration and the quest for knowledge. Such figures with similar appearances were common in Soviet art. We also see an image of a dove, symbolizing peace. The mosaic is crafted using earth tones, with a palette of brown, beige, white, and black tiles, creating an intricate and dynamic visual effect. The background continues to display intricate patterns and abstract designs, creating a cohesive and immersive visual experience. Overall, the mosaic conveys a powerful narrative about human exploration, scientific achievement, and the artistic interpretation of these themes. The combination of abstract and figurative elements, along with the use of a rich color palette, enhances the visual and thematic impact of the artwork. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva The Cemetery of German POWs in Gyumri This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Previous Next

Listening to the duduk is an enchanting journey into the heart of Armenia, traversing from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Ararat to the echoing chambers of ancient ruins. This brief article sheds light on the history and technical characteristics of the duduk, a unique and ancient instrument that resonates with rich cultural significance. < Back Duduk – Traditional Armenian Musical Instrument Listening to the duduk is an enchanting journey into the heart of Armenia, traversing from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Ararat to the echoing chambers of ancient ruins. This brief article sheds light on the history and technical characteristics of the duduk, a unique and ancient instrument that resonates with rich cultural significance. The Armenian duduk also known as tsiranapogh, meaning " apricot-made wind instrument" in Armenian, is a double-reed woodwind instrument renowned for producing a haunting and expressive sound. Crafted from apricot wood, it possesses a distinctive color and tone. It should not be confused with the northwestern Bulgarian folk instrument of the same name. Traditionally played in pairs, the first player handles the melody while the second plays a steady drone called dum. The harmonious fusion of these two instruments creates a richer, more haunting sound. Armenian musicologists trace the duduk's use back to 1200 BC, though some Western scholars suggest it may be around 1,500 years old. Duduk variants can be found in Armenia and the Caucasus, with its historical roots extending to the reign of Armenian king Tigran the Great (95 to 55 B.C.). Duduk is depicted in numerous Armenian manuscripts from the Middle Ages and stands as the only truly Armenian musical instrument that has survived through history, symbolizing Armenian national identity. Duduks for sale in Yerevan Vernissage Market Recognizing its cultural significance, UNESCO declared the Armenian duduk and its music as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2005 and officially inscribed it in 2008. Duduk music has left a lasting impact on various films, often used to evoke otherworldliness, loneliness, or to provide a Middle Eastern/Central Asian atmosphere. Notable film soundtracks featuring the duduk include "Avatar" (2009), "Brotherhood of the Wolf" (2001), "The Crow" (1994), "Gladiator" (2000), "Hotel Rwanda" (2004), "Hulk" (2003), "The Island" (2005), "The Last Temptation of Christ" (1988), "The Passion of The Christ" (2004), and "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" (2007). Hans Zimmer on Using Duduk Music in the Gladiator Movie and Jivan Gasparyan The duduk's particular tuning depends on the region, with an eight-hole duduk capable of playing ten successive notes of a diatonic scale or sixteen consecutive notes of a chromatic scale with simple fingering, including a thumb hole on the lower side. Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”

Join my guided tours in Armenia to explore an abandoned copper mine. We’ll cross adrenaline-pumping bridges and venture into tunnels that promise an unforgettable experience and incredible photo opportunities. < Back Exploring an Abandoned Copper Mine Join my guided tours in Armenia to explore an abandoned copper mine. We’ll cross adrenaline-pumping bridges and venture into tunnels that promise an unforgettable experience and incredible photo opportunities. Abandoned copper mines, including their eerie tunnels, have a unique allure for adventurers, particularly those interested in urban exploration (urbex) and industrial archaeology. This mine was once a key site for copper extraction, but it was abandoned when the workers relocated to a nearby mining area. Now, this deserted place attracts urban explorers and photographers alike. Inside the first tunnel! It takes about 15 minutes to walk through the muddy ground up to the ore carts, but the effort is well worth it Within the site, there are two tunnels connected by two rusty, decaying bridges. The first tunnel, located near the parking area, still contains ore carts. Previously, these carts could be seen on the bridges as well, but they have since been removed. The carts once transported ore from this tunnel, crossing the bridges before turning toward the second tunnel. I am crossing the bridge to reach the second tunnel of the former copper mine... It takes about 15 minutes to walk from one end of the second tunnel to the other, though its full length remains unknown. The tunnels are damp and muddy, so waterproof boots are strongly recommended. Crossing the bridge to reach the tunnel of the abandoned copper mine often feels like stepping into a forgotten world. The bridge, typically weathered and aged, offers a striking view of the rugged terrain below, setting the tone for the eerie adventure ahead. What Does This Visit Promise? The thrill of exploring an abandoned, often dangerous, environment is a major draw for adrenaline seekers. The risk of entering unstable tunnels, navigating dark passageways, and uncovering hidden chambers adds a level of excitement that is hard to match. The entrance to the tunnel features a carved date on the facade: 1966. For photographers and artists, the abandoned copper mine offers a hauntingly beautiful setting. The interplay of light and shadow, the decaying infrastructure, and the natural reclamation of the site by the environment create a unique, otherworldly atmosphere. It’s an ideal location for capturing striking images or finding creative inspiration. Inside the tunnel... In essence, the appeal of this former copper mine lies in its blend of historical significance, architectural intrigue, adventurous appeal, and artistic potential. For those with a passion for exploration and discovery, these abandoned tunnels offer a truly unique and compelling experience. Join my urban explorer tours to uncover the hidden marvels of Armenia! For a personalized itinerary, please contact me. Project Gallery You May Also Like Armenia’s Particle Accelerator Urban Exploration Tour with Carlus in a Lada Niva The Cemetery of German POWs in Gyumri This Trophy 1m Schmidt Telescope Was Hitler's Gift to Mussolini Destroyed Bas-Reliefs of Armenia Exploring the Unfinished Depths of Yerevan Metro The Destroyed Statues of Armenia KANAZ: The Cultural Heart of Kanaker’s Aluminium Factory Previous Next

Explore Fridtjof Nansen's compassionate journey in 1925 through post-World War I and post-Genocide Armenia. Discover his dedication to Armenian refugees, canal-building initiatives, and the unique encounters with the country's culture. Join Nansen on this humanitarian odyssey documented in "Gjennern Armenia," shedding light on his profound impact on Armenian history and society. < Back Polar Explorer Fridtjof Nansen’s Visit to Armenia Explore Fridtjof Nansen's compassionate journey in 1925 through post-World War I and post-Genocide Armenia. Discover his dedication to Armenian refugees, canal-building initiatives, and the unique encounters with the country's culture. Join Nansen on this humanitarian odyssey documented in "Gjennern Armenia," shedding light on his profound impact on Armenian history and society. Being a great humanist Norwegian polar explorer, Fridtjof Nansen made efforts to help the people left homeless, alienated and starving as a result of the First World War. The Armenian people, who were on the verge of annihilation as a result of the 1915 Genocide, were always in the center of his attention. In 1924, Nansen actively addressed Armenian refugee issues, advocating for a just resolution, improving emigrants' conditions, facilitating their return, and initiating canal projects to cultivate arid lands. Nansen's impactful efforts granted "Nansen passports" to thousands, easing their plight. Nansen during his travels in Armenia. Notice the carpet on which he is sitting! At 7 o'clock on June 16, 1925, Nansen and his commission left Tiflis by train for Armenia. During the night, they traversed the Lori region, known for its forested mountains and gorges, and the next morning, they encountered a different landscape. Unlike Lori, the Aragatsotn region lacks forested areas. On that occasion, he wrote: "The land is barren, without trees; there is no green anywhere, no wooded hill in sight. Is this dry, yellowish land supposed to be cultivated for refugees? The scene in front of my window did not leave an encouraging impression." On June 17, 1925, a warm welcome awaited Nansen and his delegation at Yerevan station. On June 18, the Nansen commission leaves for Sardarapat region. At that time, it was very important to create an irrigation system for the Sardarapat field and make it a fertile land. They visited Hoktemberyan's cotton factory and expressed their satisfaction about ii. Nansen in Armenia Then moved to the Armenian-Turkish border, explored the shores of Araks river, visited Margara and other Armenian villages. Afterwards, the guests visited the ruins of Armavir, one of the ancient capitals of Armenia, surrounded by cotton fields. A young woman working there gave Nansen a cotton cocoon, of which Nansen wrote: "It was a welcome wish according to the custom of the country, so natural, simple and touching. I held that tender cotton for a long time.'' The guests then visited the village of Bambakashat, whose inhabitants welcomed them with salt and bread, milk and fruits. The same day in the evening, the guests return to Yerevan and are invited to a dinner in the city's summer park, where they not only enjoy delicious Armenian food and fruits, but also listen to Armenian music, for which Nansen personally thanks choir leader K. Shahnazaryan. Later, he wrote in his travel notes: "The food and Armenian wine are good, but there is no mention of fruits. At that time, the apricots had started to ripen. Armenia itself is the motherland of apricots, the apricots here are so big and juicy that I have never seen such anywhere." After the Armenian Genocide, thousands of children became orphans. They found shelters in various parts of the world, including Eastern Armenia. In this photo, you can see Nansen having lunch with orphans in Leninakan (Gyumri). After the sessions held the next day, the guests visit the Museum of the History of Armenia, and the knowledge gained on the skeletons and skulls studied there, Nansen later uses in his work written about Armenians. After that, the guests were led to Yerevan State University, where a warm reception was organized. A friendly party is organized in the courtyard of the university, which takes place in a warm and businesslike atmosphere. Nansen is awarded the title of honorary doctor and honorary member of the scientific council of Yerevan State University. After visiting the university, the guests went to the Zangvi coast and saw the Yerevan fortress. On June 20, Nansen's delegation continues to explore the Sardarapat Plain, approaching Araks river and discussing the possibility of building a canal. They observe the Surmalu Plateau, which was once covered with vineyards, gardens, and fields, but has now risen to a bare plain. In the evening, they come to the Hoktemberyan station to take the train to Leninakan. But it turns out that their special carriage has to be attached to the train quite late. Therefore, as they spend most of the night there, Nansen prefers lying in the open air on a tarpaulin under a starry sky, rather than sleeping in a hot compartment coach. On June 21, Nansen and his companions were already in Leninakan, where they felt the breath of new life and participated in the opening of the Shirak canal, which turned into a popular celebration. When the water flowed, Nansen threw his broad-brimmed hat into the water as a sign of joy and a bright vision of the future. Returning to the city, they attend a dinner. Nansen also visits the newly established textile factory in Leninakan, where a warm welcome is organized and he himself speaks with words of thanks and good wishes. Bust of Fridtjof Nansen in Yerevan (sculptor Garegin Davtyan). Armenia will never forget how Nansen helped us! To honor him in Armenia there are streets and parks named after him, as well as a museum dedicated to Nansen and statues commemorating his contributions. On the morning of June 24, they leave for Yerevan, through the northern regions of Armenia. They were in Lori, specifically in Stepanavan, Gharakilisa (now Vanadzor) and then went to Dilijan, where they visited the Republican Sanatorium. After spending the night in Dilijan, the guests take the route to Sevan, the unique beauty of which enchants Nansen. On the banks of the Sevan River, they eat royal trout or, as Nansen called it, "the jewel of the Armenian feast." Then they move to Yerevan. On June 27, Nansen's commission was in Kanaker, Garni, Dvin, banks of Zangvi river, Ghrer, Sevjur. On June 28, the guests visited Etchmiadzin, got acquainted with its architectural monuments and were received by the Catholicos. They get to know the manuscripts in the local bookstores. Nansen during his travels in Armenia Nansen was particularly fascinated by the structure of the cathedral and the church of Hripsime, with the domes rising on the quadrangle. On June 29, they visited the Yerevan hydroelectric power station, which was a unique structure and left a great impression. Then they entered "Ararat" wine factory and tasted Armenian drinks. "Everyone was nice... red wine... sherry... madera... port wine... At the end, I was given muscat... I had never drunk such wonderful wine," he wrote. In the evening of the same day, a government dinner is organized in honor of the guests on the bank of Zangvi. In addition to traveling through Armenia, Nansen also participates in many meetings, during which important issues were discussed. He also visits the studio of Martiros Saryan, where he gets acquainted with the works of the great artist. Saryan immortalized that meeting with two portraits of Nansen, which are now kept in Saryan's museum. On July 1, a farewell concert will be held at the city theater, followed by a dinner. On July 2, 1925, statesmen, accompanied by a large crowd, bid farewell to the great philanthropist from the Yerevan railway station. Nansen writes: "Yerevan, Zangvi valley, beautiful gardens were disappearing behind us. In the south, Ararat stood cloudless in all its height, and its broad snow-covered peak was shining under the light of the sun." Nansen described his trip to Armenia in the book "Gjennern Armenia" ("Through Armenia") published in 1927. Two years later, another book of his, also related to the 1925 trip, "Gjennern Kaukasus til Volga" ("Through the Caucasus to the Volga") was published. Nansen did not give up caring for the Armenian people until the end of his life. In 1928, he toured America, during which he gave fund-raising lectures for the benefit of Armenians. Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”

Armenia became the first country to adopt Christianity in 301 AD, and since then, religion has played a significant role in shaping the country's culture and history. This article aims to provide brief information about religion in Armenia for those who want to get quick insights! < Back Religion in Armenia Armenia became the first country to adopt Christianity in 301 AD, and since then, religion has played a significant role in shaping the country's culture and history. This article aims to provide brief information about religion in Armenia for those who want to get quick insights! Religion in Armenia: A Brief Overview Armenia has a rich history, culture, and identity, with religion being a crucial aspect. Let's explore the main features of religion in Armenia, its history, and its role in society. The majority of Armenians, around 97%, are Christians belonging to the Armenian Apostolic Church—one of the world's oldest Christian churches, founded in the 1st century AD by apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus, who preached Christianity to Armenia in the 1st century AD. It is part of the Oriental Orthodox communion, which means it does not accept the Council of Chalcedon (451) that defined the doctrine of two natures in one person in Christ. Instead, it holds to a belief called miaphysitism, which affirms that Christ has one divine and one human nature. Christ depicted in a fresco at Kobayr Monastery Armenia became the first country to adopt Christianity as its official state religion in 301 AD, when King Tiridates III converted to Christianity under the influence of St. Gregory the Illuminator. The Armenian Apostolic Church has its spiritual center at Etchmiadzin Cathedral, where the Catholicos (the supreme leader) resides. The current Catholicos is Garegin II. Etchmiadzin Cathedral The Armenian Apostolic Church has a rich and diverse liturgy, culture, and history. It uses an ancient alphabet invented by Mesrop Mashtots in the 5th century AD. It also has many translations of the scriptures into Armenian from various languages. The Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates a vibrant calendar of festivals and holidays throughout the year, reflecting its rich history, traditions, and deep faith. Here are some highlights: Christmas (January 6): Celebrated with Nativity liturgies, candlelit processions, and family gatherings. Easter (Variable Date): A joyous celebration with church services, traditional meals, and festive egg painting. Transfiguration of Jesus (Variable Date): Celebrated with the Vardavar Water Festival, involving joyful water-splashing and community gatherings. Assumption of the Holy Mother of God (August 15): Marked with grape blessing ceremonies and special feasts. Feast of St. Sargis (February 14): Celebrated as Lovers' Day, with romantic traditions and special church services. Trndez (February 21): A bonfire festival symbolizing purification, with young people jumping over flames. Feast of St. Gregory the Illuminator (September 30): Honors the founder of the Armenian Church, with special liturgies and festivities. Feast of the Holy Translators (October 1): Celebrates the translators of the Bible into Armenian, with church services and cultural events. Khor Virap Monastic Complex Religious Diversity in Armenia While most Armenians are Apostolic Christians, there are also other Christian denominations in the country, such as Eastern Orthodox, Catholic (both Armenian and Latin), Protestant, Jehovah’s Witness, Assyrian Church of the East (Nestorian), and more. These groups have their own churches and communities. The largest non-Christian group is the Yazidis, constituting about 1% of Armenia's population. Primarily residing in the western part of the country, many Yazidis arrived in Armenia during the 19th and early 20th centuries to escape religious persecution. Yazidis and Armenians share strong relations, and the world's largest Yazidi temple is located in the small village of Aknalich. The world's largest Yazidi temple in Aknalich village Religion's Influence on Armenian Life Religion has played a vital role in shaping Armenia's national identity, culture, politics, and society. It has inspired various artistic expressions, including literature, music, painting, architecture, and festivals. Much like elsewhere, religion in Armenia acts as a connective thread for human interaction. Places of worship aren't just for spiritual devotion but also serve as communal hubs where people gather to celebrate, mourn, and support each other. The church, especially, acts as a unifying force, emphasizing shared values and a collective sense of identity. The entrance to Genocide Museum Challenges and Resilience Armenian religious life has faced challenges, including the Armenian Genocide and political upheavals. However, the resilience of the Armenian people is evident in their ability to adapt, preserve, and draw strength from their religious heritage. In conclusion, religion in Armenia is not just a set of beliefs; it's a dynamic force that weaves through the fabric of daily life, connecting people, shaping traditions, and contributing to the nation's enduring spirit. Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”

Discover Armenia, a captivating land in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia, nestled south of the Caucasus mountain range. Bordered by Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan. Uncover the enduring legacy of Armenia (with Yerevan as its heart), validated by its presence on ancient Babylonian clay maps, solidifying its status as one of the world's oldest nations. < Back Where is Armenia Discover Armenia, a captivating land in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia, nestled south of the Caucasus mountain range. Bordered by Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan. Uncover the enduring legacy of Armenia (with Yerevan as its heart), validated by its presence on ancient Babylonian clay maps, solidifying its status as one of the world's oldest nations. Armenia is a landlocked country in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia, located just south of the Caucasus mountain range. It is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Iran on the south, and the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan (Historically part of Armenia up to 1921 but transferred to Azerbaijan by the Bolsheviks. On March 16, 1921, Soviet Russia and Turkey signed an agreement in Moscow, according to which Nakhichevan was transferred to the guardianship of Soviet Azerbaijan. Before that, Nakhichevan was part of the First Republic of Armenia. From the point of view of international law, this was an absolutely illegal agreement. Two countries transferred the territory of a third state, which they themselves recognized as sovereign, to a fourth state, without their participation or even asking for their opinion.) to the southwest. Armenia has a total area of 29,743 square kilometers (11,484 square miles) and a population of about 3 million people. The capital and largest city of Armenia, Yerevan, is strategically located along the Hrazdan River, nestled in the northeastern part of the Ararat Plain. Serving as the nation's administrative, cultural, and industrial hub, Yerevan stands as a vibrant center of both heritage and modern development. Satellite style map of Armenia by Maphill One of the three countries marked on the Babylonian clay slab-map (dates to no earlier than the 9th century BC (with a late 8th or 7th date being more likely)) is Armenia, which comes to prove once again that Armenia is one of the oldest countries on earth! In Yerevan, copies of this map can be found, with one located in Republic Square and another in Saryan Park Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”

In 2025, Armenia will unveil the world’s tallest statue of Jesus Christ, a monumental addition set to become a landmark attraction, enhancing tourism in Armenia. Standing at an impressive 33 meters and placed on a 44-meter pedestal, the statue will reach a total height of 77 meters. It will be positioned atop Mount Hatis at an elevation of 2,528 meters in the Kotayk Region, making it a significant highlight for tours in Armenia. < Back World’s Tallest Statue of Jesus to Be Erected in Armenia In 2025, Armenia will unveil the world’s tallest statue of Jesus Christ, a monumental addition set to become a landmark attraction, enhancing tourism in Armenia. Standing at an impressive 33 meters and placed on a 44-meter pedestal, the statue will reach a total height of 77 meters. It will be positioned atop Mount Hatis at an elevation of 2,528 meters in the Kotayk Region, making it a significant highlight for tours in Armenia. Initiated and funded by businessman Gagik Tsarukyan, leader of the Prosperous Armenia Party and former Member of Parliament, the statue was designed by architect Armen Samvelyan, whose proposal was selected from over 200 submissions in a competition. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in July 2022, and by the end of October 2024, the statue was already completed. My visit on September 8 confirmed its impressive scale, with three large segments lying side by side in Zovuni village, awaiting transportation to the top of mount Hatis and final assembly. The Upper Section of the Jesus Statue The statue will be accessible by 1,700 steps leading up the mountain, and a ropeway will also be installed to transport visitors directly to the statue, enhancing accessibility for tourists. This grand project is poised to become a major draw for those exploring Armenia’s unique blend of ancient culture and modern attractions. While the project has been approved by the government and is expected to significantly boost tourism in Armenia, it has not been without controversy. The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin has voiced opposition, arguing that the statue does not align with the centuries-old worship traditions of the Armenian Church. Despite differing views, the statue of Jesus on Mount Hatis is anticipated to attract visitors worldwide, offering a striking symbol of faith set against the breathtaking landscape of Armenia. This video animation shows how Jesus statue and its surroundings will look This project represents an exciting new chapter in Armenia’s tourism landscape, inviting travelers to experience not only a stunning new monument but also the enduring spirit and traditions of this ancient land. Gallery You May Also Like Khash – One of the Most Unusual Armenian Dishes Hiking Guide to Climbing Mount Azhdahak Modernist architecture in the Soviet Union The movie Seven Years in Tibet is based on Heinrich Harrer’s eponymous book The Tallest Stalin Statue Ever Erected The Biggest Bank Robbery in the Soviet Union The Real Story Behind the Movie The Lost City of Z On Reinhold Messner’s book “The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent”