Geography

Armenia is a mountainous country with an average elevation of 1,800 meters (5,900 feet). Mount Aragats, the highest peak in Armenia, stands at 4,090 meters (13,420 feet). The country's landscape is dominated by the Armenian Highlands, a vast plateau that extends into neighboring countries. Armenia's climate is temperate continental, with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The country is home to numerous rivers and lakes, including Lake Sevan, the largest freshwater lake in the Caucasus region.

Population

The population of Armenia is estimated at 2.96 million people (2023). The majority of the population is Armenian, with smaller communities of Russians, Yazidis, Kurds, and Assyrians. The capital and largest city is Yerevan, with a population of over 1 million. Armenian is the official language, although Russian is widely spoken.

Culture

Armenia has a rich and ancient culture, dating back to the 4th millennium BC. The country is known for its distinctive art, music, literature, and cuisine. Armenian art is characterized by its use of vibrant colors and intricate designs. Armenian music features traditional instruments such as the duduk, dhol, and zurna. Armenian literature has a long and distinguished history, with notable authors such as Hovhannes Tumanyan, William Saroyan, and Paruyr Sevak. Armenian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with dishes such as khorovats (grilled meat), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and lahmajoun (thin flatbread topped with meat).

Armenia is also home to a vibrant religious life. The Armenian Apostolic Church, founded in the 3rd century AD, is the major Christian denomination in Armenia. The country has numerous monasteries and churches, including the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Economy

Armenia has a mixed economy, with significant government involvement. The country's main industries include mining, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. The economy is heavily reliant on remittances from Armenians living abroad. Armenia has made significant progress in recent years in developing its economy, with average annual GDP growth rates exceeding 5% in the past decade.

History

Armenia has a long and complex history, dating back to ancient times. The first Armenian state was founded in the 6th century BC, and Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion in the 4th century AD. Armenia's history has been marked by periods of independence and foreign rule. In the 19th century, Armenia became part of the Russian Empire. Armenia declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Armenia faced numerous challenges, including a war with Azerbaijan over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh. Armenia has been a member of the United Nations since 1992.

Major Landmarks

Armenia is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks, including:

• Etchmiadzin Cathedral: The mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church, dating back to the 4th century AD.
• Zvartnots Cathedral: An 7th-century Armenian cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Geghard Monastery: A 12th-century monastery complex carved into a cliff face, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Lake Sevan: The largest freshwater lake in the Caucasus region, a popular tourist destination.
• Mount Aragats: The highest peak in Armenia, a popular hiking destination.