Armenia officially the Republic of Armenia, is a landlocked country located in the Armenian Highlands of Western Asia. It is a part of the Caucasus region; and is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, the Lachin corridor under a Russian peacekeeping force, and Azerbaijan to the east, and Iran and Nakhchivan to the south.

 Yerevan is the capital and largest city.

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The original native Armenian name for the country was Hayk, however, it is currently rarely used. The contemporary name Հայաստան (Hayastan) became popular in the Middle Ages by addition of the Persian suffix -stan (place)...

The name has traditionally been derived from Hayk (Հայկ), the legendary patriarch of the Armenians and a great-great-grandson of Noah, who, according to the 5th century AD author Moses of Chorene (Movsis Khorenatsi), defeated the Babylonian king Bel in 2492 BC and established his nation in the Ararat region.

Armenia, a country with a long history is an adventurous land for travelers, and especially for those who love classical culture tourism. Here one can witness almost all tracks of ancient civilizations of the Old World. Millennia passed, kingdoms and empires changed: Urartu Kingdom, Achaemenid Empire, Roman Empire, Sasanian Empire, Arab Caliphate, Byzantine Empire, Ottoman Empire … And each epoch left its track on the land. Armenia can be considered as one of the most interesting places in Europe down to plentiful historical and cultural monuments. Numerous monuments of art and architecture make the country a depository and exposition of masterpieces of the culture of the past.

The country that adopted the Christianity as an official religion in 301 is rich for ancient temples, monasteries and sacred places. Pagan temple in Garni dedicated to the God of Son Mitra and the oldest Christian temple of Armenia – Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Monastery complex of Arichavank, monasteries Gekhard, Noravank and Hor Virap (Deep dungeon). Well preserved church of Karmravor and ruins of Zvartnots temple. The Saint Mesrop Mashtots Church and the Fortress and Castle Amberd.

Armenian Customs and Traditions

Trndez, in church terminology is known as Tyarndaraj  which means “come to God”, is celebrated on 13th of February. The name “Trndez” is more popular among Armenian, and it means “God be with you” (Tern ynd dzez). This holiday is especially celebrated by those families where there are newly married couples. On Trndez people make fires in their yards and go round the fire, then they jump over it. Couples usually jump together holding hands. People also dance traditional songs and dances around the fire.

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Culture of Armenia

One of the most energetic Armenian dances is the martial dance Yarkhushta. Yarkhushta is believed to have its origins in the early Middle Ages as it is mentioned in the works of Movses Khorenatsi, Faustus of Byzantium, and Grigor Magistros. Yarkhushta has traditionally been danced by Armenian soldiers before combat engagements, partly for ritualistic purposes, and partly in order to cast off fear and boost battle spirit.

Nushik Grigoryan 

Nushik Grigoryan