Armenia is a trove of history, littered with crumbling
churches perched in spectacular settings. Landscapes transition rapidly from lush
forests to shimmering
lakes and stark
deserts. But the best thing about Armenia is the Armenians themselves - ever welcoming and eager to show off their country to visitors.
Christianity arrived in 301AD and Armenia proudly calls itself the world's
oldest Christian nation. Its kings once held lands as far away as Syria and the Black Sea coast. Lying on the
Silk Road and wedged between Persian, Turkish
and Russian empires, the country has seen its share of passing merchants, holy men and armies. Since the break up of the Soviet Union Armenia has seen a revival of nationalism and traditional culture.
The capital
Yerevan is the nation's hub of cultural activity and progressive thought. The city sports impressive
museums and a lively modern arts scene.
Cafe culture has been perfected and it's de rigueur to spend inordinate amounts of time lingering over bottles of Armenian cognac.
Armenian food is another treat - always served hot and fresh you can expect mounds of grilled meats and vegetables straight from the nearest garden.
Visitors will find mysterious stalactite
caves, forgotten
stone carvings and small
villages that have barely entered the 21st century. Just when you think you've seen everything another old monastery pops up on the horizon.
GeographyArmenia lies on the southern slopes of the Armenian Mountains in the Lesser Caucasus and is bordered by Georgia, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Iran. Its highest peak is Mount Aragats, 4,090m (13,415ft), and even its deepest valleys lie 450 to 700m (1,200 to 1,870ft) above sea level. Its biggest lake is Lake Sevan in the east.
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