Complete Travel Guide to Ashtarak, Armenia

Ashtarak Ashtarak is a town in the Ashtarak Municipality of the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia, located on the left bank of Kasagh River along the gorge, 20 kms northwest of the capital Yerevan. It is the administrative centre of the province and an important crossroad of routes for the Yerevan–Gyumri–Vanadzor triangle. As a municipal center, Ashtarak serves as an important administrative and economic hub for the surrounding region, providing essential services and infrastructure that support both urban and rural communities. Positioned at coordinates 40.2991°N, 44.36204°E, Ashtarak occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Ashtarak place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 1110.0 meters above sea level, Ashtarak benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Ashtarak creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 21600 residents, Ashtarak maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Ashtarak represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Ashtarak reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Armenia, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Aragatsotn province, Ashtarak contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Armenia’s regional character. The role of Ashtarak in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Ashtarak discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Armenia while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Ashtarak

History #Early history and Middle Ages The Bronze Age necropolises of Nerkin and Verin Naver are located just outside of modern Ashtarak Archaeologist Hakob Y Simonyan believes that they were constructed by an Indo-European culture, potentially early Armenians.

According to Movses Khorenatsi, Armanak, the son of the patriarch and founder of the Armenian nation Hayk, along with his clan, settled in the area of modern-day Aragatsotn Historically, the area of modern-day Ashtarak was part of the Aragatsotn canton of Ayrarat province of the ancient Kingdom of Armenia.

The town is one of the oldest settlements in Armenia with many historical and cultural monuments that demonstrate the unique aspects of Armenian architecture In the history of the Armenian highland, Ashtarak was mentioned as a rural settlement for the first time during the 9th century.

However, the importance of Ashtarak has declined during the following centuries under the rule of the foreign powers Between the 11th and 15th centuries, the entire region of Aragatsotn along with the rest of the historic territories of Armenia suffered from the Seljuk, Mongol, Ag Qoyunlu and Kara Koyunlu invasions, respectively.

#Modern history At the beginning of the 16th century, Ahtarak became part of the _Erivan Beglarbegi_ within the Safavid Persia During the 17th century, the town was entirely rebuilt During the first half of the 18th century, Ashtarak became part of the Erivan Khanate under the rule of the Afsharid dynasty and later under the Qajar dynasty of Persia.

Ashtarak was the site of the Battle of Oshakan in August 1827, which resulted in a Persian victory, during the Russo- Persian War of 1826-1828 It remained under the Persian rule until 1827-1828, when Eastern Armenia was ceded to the Russian Empire as a result of the same Russo-Persian War of 1826–28 and the signing of the Treaty of Turkmenchay.

Downtown Ashtarak After the fall of the Russian Empire in 1917, Ashtarak was included within the First Republic of Armenia declared on 28 May 1918 However, after 2 years of brief independence, Armenia became part of the Soviet Union in December 1920 From 1930 until 1995, Ashtarak was the centre of the _Ashtarak raion_.

During that period, Ashtarak was granted the status of a town in 1963 After the independence of Armenia in 1991, Ashtarak became the capital of the newly-formed Aragatsotn Province as a result of the territorial administration reform of 1995 Simonyan, Hakob Y.

“New Discoveries at Verin Naver, Armenia” _Backdirt_ (The Puzzle of the Mayan Calendar) The Cotsen Institute of Archaeology at UCLA: 110–113 Retrieved 5 August 2019 “Armstats:Aragatsotn Marz” (PDF) Retrieved 16 April 2018 Ekbal, Kamran (2002) “EʿTEMĀD-AL-DAWLA, ĀQĀ KHAN NŪRĪ”.

_Encyclopaedia Iranica_.

The historical trajectory of Ashtarak demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Ashtarak reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Ashtarak remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Kasagh River in Ashtarak Mount Aragats overlooking Ashtarak Ashtarak is located on the left bank of Kasagh River, 13 km to the northwest of the capital Yerevan, at an approximate height of 1110 meters above sea level. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Ashtarak, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The town occupies the central point between the Ararat plain from the south and the mountains of Aragats from the north. The mountainous terrain surrounding Ashtarak creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. The area is rich with water resources. The fountains of _Saghmosavan_ , _Nazrevan_ and _Shroshor_ are the main sources of drinking water for the town. The town is divided into 4 districts: _Old Ashtarak_ on the right bank of Kasagh river, _Dzakhap_ (literally meaning _left bank_) on the left side of Kasagh, _Gitavan_ and _Bagavan_. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Ashtarak, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The village of Mughni -included within the municipality of Ashtarak- is located to the north of the town. The valley of Ashtarak commonly known as _Ashtaraki dzor_ is a major destination for visitors from Yerevan and other nearby settlements. The valley location of Ashtarak provides fertile agricultural land and strategic advantages for trade and communication. #Climate Ashtarak has a hot-summer humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification _Dsa_). The city has a hot and dry weather in summers, especially in August and September, the driest months. Spring is the wettest time of the year. Hail is a rare event which can happen in warmer months. Climate data for Ashtarak Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 12. 2) Daily mean °C (°F) −2. 8) Record low °C (°F) −22. 5) Average precipitation mm (inches) 27. 3) Average precipitation days (≥ 1. 8 Average relative humidity (%) 80. 1 Mean monthly sunshine hours 89. 2 Source: NOAA 1. “Ashtarak tert: About Ashtarak”. Archived from the original on 10 November 2016. Retrieved 16 April 2018. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ “Ashtarak Climate Normals for 1991-2020” (CSV). National Centers for Environmental Information. Retrieved March 5, 2024.

The topographic characteristics of Ashtarak result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Ashtarak region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Ashtarak area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Ashtarak has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Ashtarak demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Ashtarak create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Ashtarak has a hot-summer humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification _Dsa_). The city has a hot and dry weather in summers, especially in August and September, the driest months. Spring is the wettest time of the year. Hail is a rare event which can happen in warmer months. Climate data for Ashtarak Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 12. 2) Daily mean °C (°F) −2. 8) Record low °C (°F) −22. 5) Average precipitation mm (inches) 27. Rainfall patterns in Ashtarak determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 3) Average precipitation days (≥ 1. Rainfall patterns in Ashtarak determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 8 Average relative humidity (%) 80. 1 Mean monthly sunshine hours 89. 2 Source: NOAA 1. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ “Ashtarak Climate Normals for 1991-2020” (CSV). National Centers for Environmental Information. Retrieved March 5, 2024.

The climatic regime of Ashtarak reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Ashtarak create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Ashtarak determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Ashtarak create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Ashtarak demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Ashtarak include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Historical populationYearPop. The demographic composition of Ashtarak reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1831826— 18912,550+1. 35% 197213,900+4. 79% 200120,636+1. 37% 201118,834−0. 91% 202215,686−1. 65% This graph was using the legacy Graph extension, which is no longer supported. It needs to be converted to the new Chart extension. _Հայաստանի Հանրապետության բնակավայրերի բառարան_ [_Republic of Armenia settlements dictionary_] (PDF) (in Armenian). Yerevan: Cadastre Committee of the Republic of Armenia. Archived from the original (PDF) on 11 March 2018. ]: Population *[±% p. The demographic composition of Ashtarak reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ]: Per annum growth rate.

Culture Ashtarak has a cultural palace, 4 schools of art, and many public libraries, including the Aragatsotn regional library named after Vardges Petrosyan. The town is also home to the house-museum of novelist Perch Proshyan founded in 1948, located at the centre of town within the Proshyan family house. It was last restored in 2008. The 17th-century bridge of Ashtarak on Kasagh River is among the interesting sites of the town. It is located in the gorge just below the church of Saint Sarkis. It was built in 1664 by the efforts of _Mahdesi Khoja Grigor_ ; a wealthy merchant from Kanaker. The bridge features 3 arches that are unequal in size. #Historical monuments ##Churches of Spitakavor, Karmravor and Tsiranavor The remains of Tsiranavor Church, 5th century According to a legend, 3 sisters lived in Ashtarak, all of whom fell in love with the same man, prince _Sarkis_. The elder 2 sisters decided to commit suicide in favour of the youngest one. One wearing an apricot-orange dress and the other wearing a red dress, they threw themselves into the Ashtarak gorge. When the youngest sister found out, she put on a white dress and also threw herself into the gorge. _Sarkis_ then became a hermit and three small churches appeared at the edge of the gorge, named after the sisters’ dress colours. The remains of Spitakavor Church, 13th century The best preserved one among the three churches is the Karmravor Church (meaning _reddish_ for its dome colour), dating back to the 7th century, dedicated to the Holy Mother of God (Surp Astvatsatsin). It has a small cruciform central-plan, with a reddish/apricot colored dome, and an octagonal drum. Other churches include, Tsiranavor (meaning _apricot-colored_) dating back to the 5th century, and Spitakavor (meaning _whitish_) dating back to the 13th century, both are located along the edge of the gorge. ##Saint Marianeh Church The largest church of the town is the Saint Marianeh Church located at the center of Ashtarak. It was built in 1271 and has a rectangular plan from outside and a cruciform type plan from inside with an octagonal drum above. A belfry was added in 1838. ##Saint Sarkis Church The 19th-century church of Surp Sarkis built on an old foundation, is situated on an attractive point at a promontory overlooking the gorge and offers a fine view to the above-mentioned three churches. The external walls of the structure were almost completely restored recently while the interior walls remain the same. Some pieces of the outer walls remain sitting next to the church with carvings on them. #_Ashtarak Walnut Festival_ The _Ashtarak Walnut Festival_ is taking place every year during the month of October to promote the fame of the delicious walnut of Ashtarak. It was first celebrated in 2012. The festival is organized by the French-Armenian owners of the local _Pascal & Diodato_ café. [_citation needed_] 1. “Charents Museum of Literature and Arts.

The cultural landscape of Ashtarak represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Ashtarak reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Ashtarak continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Ashtarak provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Ashtarak demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Ashtarak provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy View of Ashtarak Ashtarak is one of the major industrial centre of Aragatsotn Province. The industrial sector of the town is based on food-processing, dairy products and beverages, mainly processing the domestic raw materials and grapes. Ashtarak is home to the “Ashtarak-Kat” company (founded in 1995), the leading ice-cream and dairy products manufacturer in Armenia. The town is also home to the “Gourmet Dourme” chocolate factory founded in 2007, the “P & D Group Armenia” for plastic containers founded in 2007, as well as the “Milen Art” plant and the “Kharam Cooperative” for building materials production. With several restaurants and recreation areas, the valley of Kasagh river -locally known as _Ashtaraki dzor_ – is a major destination for visitors from Yerevan and other areas.

The economic structure of Ashtarak reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Ashtarak often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Ashtarak serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Ashtarak demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Ashtarak has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Ashtarak focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation Soviet-era PAZ-672 bus in Ashtarak Ashtarak is a satellite of Yerevan and connected with the capital through the Ashtarak highway. The M-1 Motorway connects Ashtarak with northwestern Armenia, including the city of Gyumri, while the M-3 Motorway connects the town with northeastern Armenia up to the Georgian border. Taxi services are available in the town while public vans locally-known as _marshrutka_ , operate regular trips between Ashtarak and Yerevan throughout the day.

Transportation infrastructure serving Ashtarak reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Armenia. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Ashtarak.

Regional connectivity from Ashtarak provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Radio telescope at the Ashtarak Institute of Radiophysics and Electronics Ashtarak is home to 7 public education schools and 6 pre-school kindergartens. It is also home to the Ashtarak State Vocational School, which is an intermediate technical college. 2 major scientific research institutions of Armenia are based in Ashtarak: * Institute of Radiophysics and Electronics: founded in 1960 as the research and development branch of the Armenian National Academy of Sciences, in the fields of radio engineering, automatic control, theoretical physics, solid state physics, semiconductors and superconductivity. * Mikael Ter-Mikaelian Institute for Physical Research: founded in 1967 as the physical research organization of the National Academy of Sciences, involved in the fields of laser physics, material science and related areas. 1. “Welcome to the Institute of Radiophysics and Electronics – Institute of Radiophysics and Electronics, NAS RA”. _www.irphe.am_. Archived from the original on 10 June 2019. Retrieved 16 April 2018. 2. Armenia, Institute for Physical Research of National Academy of Sciences of. “The Institute for Physical Research (IPR)”. _www.ipr.sci.am_. Archived from the original on 6 May 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2018.

Educational institutions in Ashtarak serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Ashtarak

Successful visits to Ashtarak require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Ashtarak often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Ashtarak include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Ashtarak extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.

---

Source: This article incorporates material from the Wikipedia article “Ashtarak”.