Where is Armenia - Maps, History and Facts

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 and east, and Iran and the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan (historically part of Armenia up to 1921 but transferred to Azerbaijan by the Bolsheviks) to the south.

This map clearly illustrates Armenia's landlocked position, highlighting its geographic situation surrounded by neighboring countries without direct access to the sea

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 is Yerevan, situated along the Hrazdan River, it is the administrative, cultural, and industrial center of the country.

Armenia boasts a rich and ancient history, tracing its origins to the 16th century BC as part of the Urartu civilization. It emerged as a powerful kingdom in the 1st century BC under the reign of Tigranes the Great, whose leadership significantly expanded Armenia's territory and influence in the region.

Map of the Republic of Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Republic

At the height of his rule, Tigranes' empire stretched from the Pontic Alps (in present-day northeastern Turkey) to Mesopotamia, and from the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean. His series of military victories and territorial expansion earned him the prestigious Achaemenid title "King of Kings," a designation also used by the contemporary Parthian rulers, and this title prominently appeared on coins minted after 85 BC.

One of the few 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 Urartu (Armenia), which comes to prove once again that Armenia is one of the oldest countries on earth!

Map of the World from Sippar, Iraq, 6th century BCE. British Museum

Armenia was also one of the first countries to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301 AD under King Tiridates III. Armenia has faced many invasions and conflicts throughout its history, such as by the Romans, Persians, Mongols, Ottomans, Russians, and Azerbaijanis. Armenia gained its independence from Russia in 1991 after decades of Soviet occupation.

Yereruyk Basilica in Armenia

Armenia is a landlocked country that has no access to the sea. It has a diverse geography that includes mountains, valleys, plains, forests, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. Some of the most famous natural attractions in Armenia are Mount Aragats (highest summit), Lake Sevan (the largest lake in Armenia), Geghard Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Garni Temple (the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in Armenia and the former Soviet Union) etc. Armenia also has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its ancient traditions and modern influences. Some of the most notable aspects of Armenian culture are its language (Armenian), its literature, its music and its cuisine.

Armenian landscape: Lake Kari and mount Aragats

In conclusion, whether you're a history buff seeking ancient ruins, an adventurer craving mountain treks, or a culture enthusiast eager to delve into unique traditions, Armenia's location promises an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, open your mind, and embark on a journey to the heart of the Caucasus. Armenia awaits, ready to unveil its magic.