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Erevan (Yerevan)

Erevan, also written as Yerevan and Jerevan, is the capital and most populous city of Armenia with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Located in the heart of the Armenian plateau, the city has been an important cultural, artistic, and industrial center for centuries.

The average height of Erevan's territory is 990 meters above sea level, with a minimum of 865 meters and a maximum of 1,390 meters on the plain below. The city extends along the banks of the Hrazdan River, which flows into the north-eastern part of the Ararat Plain. The upper part of Erevan is surrounded by mountainous chains on three sides, while to the south it degrades towards the riverbanks. A picturesque canyon divides the city in two.

Historically, Erevan was located at the center of the Armenian plateau, within the canton of Kotayk. As the capital of the nation, Erevan does not belong to any marz (province). It borders the provinces of Kotayk north and east, Ararat south and southwest, Armavir west, and Aragatsotn northwest.

The state reserve of Erebuni, established in 1981, is located about eight kilometers south-east from the city center. This site occupies an area of one hundred and twenty hectares at a height between 1300 and 1450 meters above sea level, mostly consisting of semi-desert mountain steppes.

Erevan has a continental climate of steppic type, characterized by long, warm summers and cold winters. The city's geographical location, lying on a plain surrounded by mountains and distant from the sea, contributes to this unique climate.

In 1828, Erevan became part of the Russian Empire, leading to the repatriation of Armenians whose ancestors had been forcibly relocated in the 17th century. Over time, Yerevan transformed into Armenia's principal cultural, artistic, and industrial center, as well as becoming the seat of national government.

Today, Erevan is a thriving city with a population of over 1 million inhabitants. The city has undergone significant transformations since its growth began in the late 19th century. In recognition of its rich literary heritage, Yerevan was named the World Book Capital by UNESCO in 2012 and is also known as "The City of Books".

Notable landmarks include E