History Of Armenia
Armenia is the geographical region where the Armenian people were shaped as a nation and lived over centuries to present day, thus creating a vast and rich heritage of unique history and culture. Being on the crossroads of East and West, Armenia has always played the role of a connecting bridge in the region. One of the famous Silk Roads passed through in Armenia. In 301 AD, Armenia adopted Christianity thus becoming the first country in the world to proclaim it as a state religion. The holy event of the 1700Th anniversary of Christianity in Armenia was celebrated in 2001. More +  History of Christianity in Armenia +

GEOGRAPHY
Armenia is in the southwestern part of Caucasus, south of Georgia, West of Azerbaijan, North of Iran and East of Turkey. Armenia's territory is 29,800 sq. km (11,490 sq miles) comparable with the territory of Belgium. It is a mountainous, land locked country in Southwestern Asia. Most of Armenia's territory ranges from 1000 to 2500 meters above sea level. Highest point: Mt. Aragats, 13,419 ft (4,090 m); lowest point: Along Debed River, 1,280 ft (390 m).

CLIMATE
Armenia is often described as a sunny country. The climate is highland continental, dry with four seasons. Temperatures can vary considerably between seasons. The summer is generally pleasant reaching 25C, though in the Ararat valley temperatures can climb to 40C. Winters are cold with temperatures dipping to -5C in Yerevan, and colder in the Ararat Valley (-30) and the Lake Arpi area (-46C). Annual precipitation for the country as a whole average is 550 millimeters. The best time to visit Armenia is in spring or the "velvet" season, autumn.

POPULATION
The population of Armenia is about 3.7 million (1989 est.). The capital Yerevan is home of for 1.250 million people. Density is 325/sq. miles (126/sq. km), 68% urban ; It consists of these ethnic groups: Armenian 95%, Russian 2%; Spoken languages: Armenian, Russian; religion: 95 % Armenian Orthodox ; life expectancy is 75 for females, 68 for males; literacy rate is 98%. The Armenians are among Europe's oldest and most distinct ethnic groups, having inhabited the area east and south of the Black Sea since the seventh century BC. Both the Armenian alphabet and the Armenian church date back to the fourth century and remain substantially unchanged today. Ancient Armenia has left a legacy of many gifted artists, writers, and philosophers.

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
Eastern Armenian is the official state language in Armenia. Western Armenian, Russian, English, French, German, Kurdish, Greek, Hebraic-Yiddish are considered as spoken languages. Russian and English are spoken widely.

RELIGION
History of Armenian Christianity
Armenian Apostolic is the main religion in Armenia (95%). Others: Armenian Catholic, Armenian Protestant, Russian Orthodox, Jewish, Greek Orthodox.

POLITICS
Armenia is a Parliamentary Republic. Parties: Yergrabah, Democratic Liberal, National Democratic Union, National Movement, National Self-determination Association and ARF. Suffrage: universal, over 18. Membership in CIS and UN.

ECONOMY
The GNP of Armenia is $23,940,000,000 ($7,202 per capita). The national currency of Armenia is Dram (code - AMD, 1$ » 510 AMD). Trade partners: former Soviet republics, Asian and European countries. Armenia exports machinery and transportation equipment, metals, chemicals, electricity. Imports: machinery, energy, consumer goods.

MINERAL WATERS
Armenia is famous for its mineral waters . The mineral waters of "Jermouk" and "Bjni" are known to be tasty and healthy dinner drinks.

ARMENIAN WINES AND BRANDY
Wine making is part of the Armenian culture. the Armenian brandy and various wines have of the highest quality. The generous sun of the Ararat Valley, fertile land and high quality water give the Armenian brandy its gold color and extraordinary taste. Winston Churchill, the ex-prime minister of England, preferred Armenian brandy to all other alcoholic drinks! During your visit to Armenia you will have a unique chance to taste the famous Armenian wines and brandy.

BANKS
HSBC BANK is located at the corner of the MARRIOTT- ARMENIA HOTEL. This bank provides all necessary services you may require.

MAPS & BOOKS on ARMENIA
NOYAN TAPAN bookstore (at the Republic Square);
Table-stores at the Republic Square;
At the museums (Matenadaran, Genocide Museum, etc.)

SETI
Join the armenia Seti Community

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