Regions of Armenia

Before hitting the road, it’s worth taking a closer look at the map of this captivating country—its regions, cities, and breathtaking natural wonders. The Republic of Armenia is divided into ten provinces, known locally as marzes, along with the capital city of Yerevan, which stands as a separate administrative unit.

First on the list is the Aragatsotn Region, whose name translates to “at the foot of Aragats”, referring to Mount Aragats, the highest peak in Armenia. This province is situated in the western part of the country.

Aragatsotn has been inhabited since the time of the earliest human settlements, a fact supported by numerous archaeological discoveries. These lands are steeped in history, with mentions in the ancient chronicles of Greater Armenia. The administrative center of the region is the town of Ashtarak, and both in this central hub and in its lesser-known rural villages, you’ll find a rich tapestry of historical landmarks.

From medieval monasteries and churches to ancient chapels, khachkars (stone crosses), and caravanserais, this region is a living museum of Armenia’s spiritual and cultural heritage. It is here that you’ll also find the tomb of Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet. One of the highlights is the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory, a prestigious scientific institution perched beneath the starry skies of Mount Aragats.

Among the architectural gems, the fortress of Amberd and the majestic monastic complex of Saghmosavank are must-see attractions. Nature lovers will also find much to admire—winding rivers, serene reservoirs, rugged canyons, and the alpine meadows and volcanic plateaus that surround the great Aragats itself offer unforgettable vistas and peaceful retreats.

Among Armenia’s most iconic regions is the Ararat Province, located in the very heart of the country—both geographically and historically. Ararat shares borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan, and from its roads, travelers are treated to some of the most iconic views in the entire nation: the legendary silhouette of Mount Ararat (now located within Turkish territory) and the fertile stretches of the Ararat Valley, immortalized in Armenian lore and national identity.

The capital of the region is Artashat, an ancient city founded centuries before the common era. Though little remains of its former grandeur, the region is rich in other attractions. One such site is Dvin, renowned for its significant archaeological zone, offering a glimpse into Armenia’s layered past.

Ararat Province is also home to medieval fortresses, monasteries, and ancient churches, with the most famous being the Khor Virap Monastery. Perched near the Turkish border and dramatically set against the backdrop of Mount Ararat, this sacred site is where Christianity took root in Armenia. It is a revered pilgrimage destination and a prominent tourist attraction, fascinating both believers and history enthusiasts alike with its profound spiritual significance and dramatic scenery.

Tucked away in the southwestern corner of Armenia lies one of the country’s smaller administrative divisions — Armavir Province. Modest in size, yes, but utterly essential on any traveler’s map.
To the west, the province borders Turkey; to the east, it meets the capital city of Yerevan. Thanks to its convenient location, exploring Armavir’s treasures is easy while staying in the capital. Whether you choose to hop in a taxi or board a local bus, the journey is both swift and budget-friendly.

The regional administrative center is the city of Armavir, but the true magnet for tourists is the small town of Vagharshapat — better known by its sacred name, Etchmiadzin. Steeped in history since antiquity, Etchmiadzin holds a special place in the Armenian soul — it is the spiritual heart of the nation.
Nicknamed the “Armenian Vatican,” this town is a repository of ancient relics and hallowed treasures, safeguarded in its churches and museums. A visit to the Etchmiadzin Cathedral is an absolute must, as are the revered churches of Saint Gayane and Saint Hripsime. And no trip here is complete without stepping into the cathedral’s museum-treasury, where wonders of the Armenian Christian world await.

Vayots Dzor Province lies in the southeastern reaches of Armenia, bordered by the fertile Ararat Valley and the region of Nagorno-Karabakh. The provincial capital is the town of Yeghegnadzor.
Human presence here dates back to the Paleolithic era, and the land continues to yield priceless archaeological finds. Among them is one of the most astonishing discoveries of modern times — the world’s oldest known footwear. These leather shoes, more than 5,500 years old, have even retained their laces.

This archaeological miracle was uncovered in the area of Areni — a name well-known among wine connoisseurs. Areni hosts a beloved annual wine festival, and the unique high-altitude vineyards lend a special depth and character to the local vintages.
Mountains dominate the landscape here, giving Vayots Dzor its breathtaking topography. Waterfalls tumble down rocky cliffs, and the famed mineral springs of Jermuk bubble up in secluded mountain enclaves.
Those drawn to history will be captivated by the ancient monasteries, including the cliffside marvel of Noravank, and the remnants of once-thriving medieval settlements and fortresses that whisper tales of Armenia’s storied past.

On Armenia’s eastern frontier lies Gegharkunik Province, a region framed by the Ararat Valley to the west and the Azerbaijani border to the east.
It is the largest province in the country and, unsurprisingly, among the most visited. What makes it so renowned? Quite simply: it is home to the legendary Lake Sevan — one of Armenia’s greatest natural and cultural treasures.

Lake Sevan occupies a vast portion of the province, with the surrounding landscape dotted by quaint towns and rural villages. The most cherished historical landmarks, scenic routes, and tourist destinations are all concentrated around the lake’s azure shores.
Travelers flock here year-round, though the region is especially popular during the warm summer months. Comfortable hotels and cozy resorts welcome guests, while culture lovers can explore nearby marvels like the Ayrivank Monastery, the cliff-perched Sevanavank complex, and the medieval Church of Saint Grigor in the village of Noratus — a veritable open-air museum of khachkars, or stone crosses.

Though officially established as a province only in 1995, Kotayk’s roots stretch deep into antiquity. Once part of a district within Greater Armenia, its lands once encompassed even the city of Yerevan.
Today, Kotayk lies in the very heart of Armenia, sharing a border with the capital. Its central location and accessibility have helped make it one of the most picturesque and travel-friendly regions in the country.

The administrative center of Kotayk is the town of Hrazdan, while the province includes a number of towns and villages, the most famous of which is Tsaghkadzor. Known as a ski and wellness resort, Tsaghkadzor charms visitors with its alpine beauty and fresh mountain air.
But there is more to Tsaghkadzor than slopes and spas — the town also boasts significant cultural landmarks. Among them are the medieval Kecharis Monastery, a quaint wooden house once visited by Russian poet Osip Mandelstam, and the Orbeli Brothers Museum, which celebrates local scientific achievements.

Yet the crown jewels of Kotayk’s heritage are two exceptional sites: the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni, with its elegant colonnades and commanding views, and the rock-hewn Geghard Monastery — a spiritual sanctuary carved into the cliffs. These two architectural wonders are reason enough for most visitors to include Kotayk in their journey through Armenia.

If you enter Armenia from the north, crossing the Georgian border, your journey will likely take you through Lori Province—Armenia’s northernmost and most verdant region. A landscape of emerald mountains, dense forests, roaring rivers, and dramatic canyons sets the tone for this lush territory.

The administrative center of the province is the city of Vanadzor, while the broader region includes several other towns and villages that beckon travelers with their charm. Among them is Akhtala, home to a stunning medieval monastery and fortress, often considered the cultural heart of the region.

Lori’s most iconic landmarks include the Debed River Canyon, the picturesque Lori Gorge, and a wealth of medieval churches and monasteries. Most notable among these are the monastic complexes of Haghpat and Sanahin—both recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Their spiritual and architectural significance continues to inspire awe among pilgrims, historians, and visitors alike.

In the far south of Armenia lies Syunik Province, a sprawling and historically rich region that shares borders with Azerbaijan and Iran. Its administrative capital is the city of Kapan.

One of the main reasons visitors flock to Syunik is to experience the “Wings of Tatev”—one of the longest aerial tramways in the world. Spanning a dramatic 6 kilometers above the Vorotan River Gorge, this engineering marvel connects the village of Halidzor to the breathtaking Tatev Monastery plateau. Its uniqueness has earned it a place in the Guinness World Records.

Yet, Syunik offers far more than a record-breaking cable car. The region is steeped in ancient history and home to extraordinary archaeological sites. These include the megalithic complex of Zorats Karer—often dubbed the “Armenian Stonehenge,” the cave village of Khndzoresk, and the haunting ruins of the Baghaberd Fortress.

But the crown jewel of the province remains the thousand-year-old Tatev Monastery. Perched dramatically atop a rocky outcrop, it is one of Armenia’s most treasured spiritual and historical sites.

Tavush Province, located in northeastern Armenia, borders both Georgia and Azerbaijan. Its administrative capital is the town of Ijevan, though the region is best known for the mountain resort town of Dilijan.

Dilijan is a beloved destination for its alpine climate, therapeutic mineral springs, and the rich biodiversity of the Dilijan National Park. Rivers thread through its valleys, while serene lakes and mineral-rich springs add to the area’s natural allure.

Dilijan is not only a nature lover’s paradise but also a cultural haven. Tavush is dotted with ancient fortresses, cave towns, churches, and monasteries. The monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavank stand out among the most significant, offering a glimpse into Armenia’s medieval past.

The architectural heritage here is truly vast, with a depth of history that can hardly be absorbed in a single visit. Tavush invites curious travelers to explore its hidden corners, each revealing a story carved in stone and shaped by centuries.

In Armenia’s northwest lies Shirak Province, bordered by Georgia and Turkey. Its administrative center is the historic city of Gyumri. Shirak’s roots stretch deep into early medieval times, a legacy evident in its ancient basilicas, crumbling monasteries, and fortress ruins.

One of the region’s most fascinating finds is a Bronze Age necropolis from the Kura-Araxes culture—an archaeological treasure that underscores Shirak’s significance as a cradle of civilization.

Despite the region’s often harsh climate, Shirak’s cultural warmth is palpable in every church, street, and stone—inviting travelers to uncover layers of Armenian heritage in an authentically rugged landscape.

Yerevan, Armenia’s capital and largest city, is an administrative region in its own right. With a history older than Rome itself, the city wears its antiquity with resilience and grace—though relatively few ancient structures remain, due to centuries of conflict, destruction, and natural disasters.

Over the years, Yerevan has risen from its ruins time and again. Today, it stands proudly as the “Pink City,” a nickname owing to its uniform city center, constructed almost entirely from pink volcanic tuff. This aesthetic vision was realized by Soviet architect Alexander Tamanyan, whose master plan has defined the modern identity of Yerevan.

Though deeply modernized, the city offers a dynamic blend of history and culture, tradition and innovation. Museums, cafes, parks, and fountains line its orderly boulevards, creating an atmosphere both welcoming and inspiring.

Come and visit Armenia—a country where every province tells a different story, and every stone whispers a legend.