Armenia is a small country, which lies partially in Eastern Europe, partly in West Asia. The neighbouring countries are Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Iran. The capital city of Armenia is Yerevan.
Armenia is a land of ancient legends and Bible stories – it is considered that after the Great Flood it was Mount Ararat where Noah set his foot for the first time and thanks to his blessing and strong Christian faith, the land, which suffered many military attacks for thousands of years, has survived and is thriving country today.
In Armenia there are hundreds of unique Christian monuments, wonderful natural sceneries, breath-taking waterfalls and mountains that reach the sky, however, one of the greatest values are people and their hospitality. The mighty Lake Sevan and the sun that shines here eight months of the year are brilliant guides to everyone who came to see the land. There are rich harvests of local fruit in summer and autumn, and you can almost feel and taste sunshine in them.
On a trip to Armenia it's certainly worth to include UNESCO world heritage sites – the old Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries. You can either view these legendary sites by themselves or on the way to the highest part of Azat valley and ancient monastery complex of Geghard.
Armenia also flaunts a surprisingly beautiful mountain landscapes, but even more impressive are monasteries, that are built in almost inaccessible places on mountain tops. The land here is remote, uneven and unforgiving, and on its background these wonders of ancient architecture seem even more surprising.
Armenia is the first country in the world, which has adopted Christianity – already in 301, it was 24 years later when it took place in Rome, and therefore you can find the very first Christian church in the world right here. You can see the world's oldest Christian churches and monasteries that are located in the most amazing landscapes. It’s also a place where you can see the world's oldest shoe (5500 years old); the world's oldest winery is located in Areni cave and in the south of the country there is 223 stone “arrangement”, which is called “Armenian Stonehenge” that was built 8000 years ago - possibly as an observatory.
Here you can try the special Armenian pomegranate wine and Armenian brandy, which has become one of the country brands. Meals are made from healthy and natural products, and Armenian cuisine is regarded as one of the world's oldest and tastiest. Apricots that grow in sunny Ararat valley are special – even the fruits Latin name, Prunus armeniaca specifies that it comes directly from Armenia. Few years ago the world's longest passenger aerial tramway line (5,7 km) was built here – the so-called “Wings of Tatev” aerial tramway cabin takes you to 10th century monastery complex, which resembles a fortress from fairy tales– there are high walls and towers on the cliff, that is surrounded by a deep gorge
All of this and the sounds of ancient musical instrument duduk full of Armenian soul and dreams. And all you need to do that is to come to Armenia and listen...
Capital: Yerevan
Language: Armenian
Government:
-President Serzh Sargsyan
- Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan
Independence
- from the former Soviet Union on September 23, 1991
Territory
- Total 29 800 km²
Population
- 2011 census 3,018,854
- Density 101,5/km²
Currency: Armenian dram/AMD
Time zone: (UTC+4)
Internet domain: .am
Calling code: +374
Azerbaijan is a transcontinental country in the Caucasus region, situated at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is bound by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia to the west and Iran to the south. The capital city of the country is Baku.
Azerbaijan is known as the ‘'Land of Fire' and we all can see why, here you can witness a real natural wonder- "burning mountains" that are caused by gas seeping through fissures in the earth. Only a handful of Fire Mountains like that exist in the world, and most of them are located in Azerbaijan. You can experience these unbelievable sights by yourself at Yanar Dag site, with eternal fire that can rise to a height up to 3 metres. Due to the large concentration of natural gas under the Absheron Peninsula, natural flames burned here throughout antiquity and were reported on by historical writers such as Marco Polo. The fire burns with coloured flames and is most impressive at dusk, when tourists and locals can enjoy these breath-taking sights from the nearby tea shops.
The nature in Azerbaijan is truly unique - it’s a home to nearly 400 mud volcanoes, more than a half of the total number in the world. If you visit Gobustan National Park, UNESCO World Heritage site, you will get a great chance to see these amazing active volcanoes from very close distance. The site also known for hosting thousands of rock engravings spread over 100 square km depicting hunting scenes, people, ships, constellations and animals. The oldest petroglyphs that can be found here, dates back to 12th century BC.
Country is closely surrounded by Greater Caucasus mountain range and Caspian Sea. This unique combination gives an amazing range of natural and climate diversity. You can go hiking in the mountains in the morning, and at the same day visit semi-desert area next to Caspian Sea. The climate diversity also contributes to the soil fertility that in turn results in the richness of the cuisine. Everyone can find something for their taste buds - generous variety of pilaffs served with local herbs and spices, various meat and vegetable dishes, wide range of seafood and for those, who like the taste of luxury, one of best known delicacy in the world - Black Caviar. You can accompany these delicious meals with local wines that are world renowned for their outstanding quality.
It’s a magical destination full of contrasts where you can experience both Western and Eastern cultures in one place. While 95% of population is Muslim, Azerbaijan is a secular state and ensures religious freedom to its citizens. Thanks to the country's generous natural resources - oil and gas, Baku has rapidly transformed itself into a highly developed modern city, while the surrounding villages still remain untouched and authentic. Baku itself is full of contrasts - from its picturesque walled old city with maze of narrow alleys and ancient buildings that date back to 12th century, to modern state of art skyscrapers. As a truly modern city Baku offers a wide range of entertainment - various museums, concert venues, opera house, restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Major sports events are held here and starting from this year Baku will host a Formula One race through the city streets.
You have to come and experience the Land of Fire!
Capital: Baku
Language: Azerbaijani
Government:
-President Ilham Aliyev
-Prime minister Artur Rasizade
Independence:
-from the former Soviet Union on August 30, 1991
Territory: 86,600 km2
Population:
- 2014 estimate 9,574,000
-Density 110.6/km2
Currency: Manat/AZN
Local time: UTC +4
Domain name: .az
Calling code: +994
