About AM
Official Name
Republic of Armenia (Հայաստանի Հանրապետություն in Armenian).
Location
Armenia is a landlocked country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. It is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, and Iran to the south.
Capital
The capital city of Armenia is Yerevan.
Population
Armenia has a population of approximately 3 million people.
Language
The official language of Armenia is Armenian.
Ethnicity
The majority of the population of Armenia is ethnically Armenian. There are also minority groups such as Yazidis, Russians, and others.
Geography
Armenia is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with the Caucasus Mountains dominating much of the landscape. The country is also home to numerous rivers and lakes, including Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.
Economy
Armenia has a developing economy with a focus on agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. The country also has a growing technology sector, particularly in information technology and software development. Remittances from Armenians living abroad are also an important source of income for the country.
Currency
The currency of Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD).
Government
Armenia is a unitary parliamentary republic with a multi-party political system. The President of Armenia is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The country's government is divided into executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Culture
Armenia has a rich cultural heritage, with a history dating back thousands of years. The country is known for its ancient churches, monasteries, and archaeological sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geghard Monastery and the Upper Azat Valley. Armenian cuisine, music, dance, and literature are also important aspects of the country's culture.
National Items of Armenia
Golden Eagle
The Golden Eagle (Aquila Chrysaetos) is the national bird of Armenia. Known for its majestic appearance and powerful flight, it symbolizes strength, freedom, and the natural beauty of the Armenian highlands.
Apricot
The apricot (Prunus armeniaca) is the national fruit of Armenia. It symbolizes the country's agricultural heritage and is associated with Armenian identity, often referred to as the "Armenian fruit."
Mount Ararat
Mount Ararat is a national symbol of Armenia, despite being geographically located in Turkey. It is historically and culturally significant to Armenians, symbolizing national pride, heritage, and identity.
Khachkar (Armenian Cross-stone)
Khachkars are intricately carved stone crosses unique to Armenian culture. They symbolize religious faith, Armenian art, and cultural heritage.
Lavash
Lavash is a traditional Armenian flatbread that is an integral part of the country's cuisine. It represents the rich culinary traditions and cultural heritage of Armenia.
Pomegranate
The pomegranate is a symbol of fertility, abundance, and good fortune in Armenian culture. It is often featured in art, literature, and rituals, symbolizing the country's agricultural richness.
Armenian Duduk
The Armenian duduk is a traditional woodwind instrument made from apricot wood. It symbolizes the musical heritage and cultural identity of Armenia and is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.
Garni Temple
The Garni Temple is a classical Hellenistic temple in Armenia and a significant historical site. It symbolizes the ancient architectural and cultural heritage of the country.
Armenian Carpet
Armenian carpets are renowned for their intricate designs and craftsmanship. They symbolize the rich artisanal heritage and cultural traditions of Armenia.
Vishapakar (Dragon Stone)
Vishapakars are ancient Armenian steles carved in the shape of dragons or serpents. They symbolize the country's ancient history, mythology, and cultural heritage.
The national anthem of Armenia is called "Mer Hayrenik" in Armenian. Here are the lyrics in Armenian and their English translation:
Մեր հայրենիք, մեր հայրենիք,
Մեր ինչպես արարունիք,
Դուք մեր հայրենիք մեզ լույս տուք,
Հայրենական արմատ կարողանանք դարձնել։
Նայի՛ր, հայրենիք, անուշ սեր եւ խորհրդի,
Նայի՛ր անձկերգով, ու խաղաղությունի։
Մեր հայրենիք, մեր հայրենիք,
Եկեղեցի մեր մահապարտությամբ,
Հանդուրժան հայրենիք, մեր հայրենիք,
Սարմելով հայկական ուժերով։
Our Fatherland, our Fatherland,
As thy soul lies in the heavens,
May your spirit, your spirit,
Descend green to our hillsides.
Arise, Armenians! Arise, Armenians!
Pledge to your nation to live,
And with undying faith, with undying faith,
Sacrifice yourselves for your race.
Our Fatherland, our Fatherland,
Firm art thou in thy might,
From the depths of hell,
Lead thy children forth to light.
