The Republic of Armenia is located in the northeastern part of the Armenian Highlands, between the Caucasus and Asia Minor. It is bordered by Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkey, and the Republic of Georgia. With an area of 29,800 square kilometers (11,490 square miles), Armenia is roughly the size of Belgium.
The capital city, Yerevan, lies on the banks of the Hrazdan River and is home to about 1.2 million Armenians. The next three largest cities are Gyumri, Vanadzor, and Abovian. Another important city is Echmiadzin, located about 20 miles west of Yerevan. Echmiadzin serves as the religious center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and holds significance for all Armenians.
Armenia occupies the territory of the Armenian Highlands, so its relief is primarily mountainous, comprising numerous high mountain ridges (about 47% of the territory), intermountain hollows, extinct volcanic mountains, plateaus, and plains. Forests cover 12 percent of the country. The average altitude is 1,800 meters above sea level, with the highest peak, Mount Aragats, rising to 4,090 meters. The lowest point is 400 meters above sea level, at the Debed River.
Mount Ararat, historically part of Armenia, is the highest mountain in the region. Although it is now located in Turkey, it is clearly visible from Armenia and is considered a national symbol. As a result, Mount Ararat is featured on the Armenian national emblem.
There are more than 200 rivers and streams in Armenia. One of the largest mountain lakes in the world, Lake Sevan, covers an area of 1,400 square kilometers.
The Highest Mountains of Armenia:
Aragats – 4090 meters above sea level (the highest point in Armenia)
This mountain is the highest in Armenia, located in the western part of the country. It is a dormant volcanic mountain with a large crater and four peaks.
Kaputdzhukh – 3906 meters above sea level
Located in the southeastern part of Armenia, this mountain is known for its rugged terrain and is part of a larger volcanic plateau.
Adzhaak – 3598 meters above sea level
Located in the western part of Armenia, Adzhaak is known for its unique shape and offers impressive views of the surrounding valleys.
Spitakasar – 3555 meters above sea level
This mountain is located in the central part of Armenia and is part of the Geghama mountain range. It is one of the prominent peaks that dominate the landscape.
Vardenis – 3522 meters above sea level
Located in the Vardenis mountain range, this peak is one of the key mountains in Armenia's eastern highlands, offering striking vistas of Lake Sevan to the north.
Mount Ararat – 5137 meters above sea level (historically part of Armenia)
Now located in Turkey, Mount Ararat remains visible from Armenia's territory and is an important symbol of the country, appearing on the national emblem. It is famous for its biblical significance and grandeur.
Khustup – 3206 meters above sea level
Located in the southern part of Armenia, Khustup is a prominent peak in the Syunik region. Its steep slopes and rocky surface make it a challenging mountain for climbers.
Shghnkadzor – 3397 meters above sea level
Part of the Geghama mountain range, Shghnkadzor features beautiful alpine landscapes, including lakes and rare flora, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Tsomak – 3375 meters above sea level
A peak in the Geghama mountain range, Tsomak is notable for its volcanic origin and distinctive landscape, attracting geologists and outdoor lovers alike.
Massis – 3473 meters above sea level
Located in eastern Armenia, Massis is an important landmark in the region, with several peaks offering panoramic views.
Gegham – 3584 meters above sea level
Located in the geographical center of Armenia, Gegham features beautiful landscapes and rare plant species.
Arpa – 3374 meters above sea level
Located in the southern part of the country, this mountain holds significance for local residents as a symbol of nature's strength and resilience.
Talavar – 3362 meters above sea level
This mountain is located in the geographical area of the Eastern Armenian Highlands, forming a picturesque ridge covered with rare plants.
Tashir – 3206 meters above sea level
Located in the northern part of the country, Tashir has several gorges and high-altitude lakes, making it an attractive destination for travelers.
This list highlights Armenia's various magnificent peaks, each unique in its features and importance.
The longest rivers of Armenia:
Araks – on the territory of Armenia: 158 km (total length – 1,072 km)
Araks is one of the important rivers of Armenia, which borders Turkey, Iran, and Azerbaijan, and plays a significant role in the country's hydrography.
Akhuryan – 186 km
Akhuryan is a river that originates in Turkey and flows through Armenia, serving as a border river that divides Armenia and Turkey.
Vorotan – on the territory of Armenia: 119 km (total length – 179 km)
Vorotan originates in the Vayots Dzor region and flows through various valleys, being one of the important rivers of Armenia.
Debed – on the territory of Armenia: 152 km (total length – 178 km)
Debed is a tributary river that flows between Armenia and Azerbaijan, entering Armenia and also running through the Agstev valley.
Agstev – on the territory of Armenia: 99 km (total length – 133 km)
Agstev starts in Georgia and flows into the Debed River in the northeastern part of Armenia.
Razdan – 141 km
Razdan is one of the most important rivers of Armenia, passing through the capital Yerevan, and holds great significance as a source and reservoir.
These rivers are of great importance not only for the ecology of the region but also for the provision of water resources.
The main lakes of Armenia:
Lake Sevan – the total surface area is 1400 square kilometers
Lake Arpi – the total surface area is 22 square kilometers
Lake Sev – the total surface area is 2.0 square kilometers
Lake Akna – the total surface area is 0.53 square kilometers
