Artashat: the ancient capital of the Armenian Kingdom founded in the 2nd century BC
Artashat is a city with deep historical roots in the Ararat province, in the heart of Armenia. Founded in 194 BC by King Artaxias I, it was for centuries one of the capitals of the great Armenian kingdom and an important political, cultural and commercial centre of the ancient Caucasus. Today it is a modern city that coexists with the evidence of a glorious past.
History: capital of the Armenian kingdom and rival of Rome
Ancient Artashat (Artaxata in Greek and Latin) was founded, according to tradition, on the advice of the Carthaginian general Hannibal, exiled at the Armenian king's court after his defeat by Rome. The city became one of the largest in the ancient world, with temples, monuments and a cosmopolitan population. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times, and served as the scene of crucial events in Armenian history.
The archaeological remains of ancient Artashat
The remains of ancient Artashat lie a few kilometres from the modern city, at the confluence of the Aras and Metsamor rivers. Archaeological excavations have uncovered large-scale structures, ceramics, coins and artefacts that document life in this metropolis of the ancient world. The site, though not fully excavated, gives a sense of the grandeur of the ancient capital.
The Artashat History Museum
The Artashat History Museum holds the region's most important archaeological collections: coins from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, ceramics, jewellery and artefacts documenting the city's history from its founding to the Middle Ages. It is the ideal starting point for understanding the historical significance of Artashat.
Artashat as a gateway to Khor Virap
Artashat is just a few kilometres from the monastery of Khor Virap, the most photogenic spot in Armenia. The route from Yerevan to Khor Virap inevitably passes through the Artashat area, making it a natural stop along the way.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Artashat important in the history of Armenia?
Artashat was founded in 194 BC by King Artaxias I and served as the capital of the great Armenian kingdom for centuries. According to tradition, it was planned on the advice of General Hannibal. It was a rival of Rome and one of the greatest urban centres of the ancient world, destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout its turbulent history.
What is there to see in Artashat today?
The main attractions are the archaeological remains of ancient Artashat (a few km from the modern city), the regional History Museum and the proximity to Khor Virap monastery. The city is also a base for exploring the Ararat plain and its vineyards.
How to get to Artashat from Yerevan?
Artashat is about 30 km south of Yerevan. There are frequent marshrutkas from Kilikia station that take about 40 minutes. By car it is about 30–40 minutes. Many travellers visit on the way to Khor Virap or as a half-day trip from the capital.