Armenia is one of the most ancient countries. Back in the 9th-6th century BC, the powerful state of Urartu was located on its territory. Since that time, all epochs and cultures passing through the lands of Armenia have left their traces on them. The number of attractions located in the country is simply huge. Despite the fact that most of the places of interest for tourists are located in the capital of Armenia – Yerevan, even in a remote village you can find the most valuable historical monument.
Geography of Armenia
According to smber, Armenia, located in Transcaucasia, has a common border with Georgia in the north, Turkey in the south and west, Azerbaijan in the east, and Iran in the south. The mountainous relief of the country has influenced the fact that most of the country’s territory is located at altitudes from 1000 to 2500 meters. A significant part of the large settlements of Armenia is located in the Ararat Valley, which has a relatively flat surface, at an altitude of 850-1000 meters.
Capital
Yerevan
Area
The area of Armenia is 29.743 km2. sq., occupies the 141st place in the world by area.
Population
3,262,200.
Currency
The state currency is the Armenian dram (AMD).
Language
The official language is Armenian.
Visa to Armenia
Citizens of Russia and the CIS are not required to have a visa to enter Armenia. It is only necessary to have a valid passport with you, in which, when crossing the border, a stamp is placed. If you are planning a trip with a child, then it is worth considering that in addition to the child’s international passport (if he is over 14 years old), you must have a birth certificate with you, and if he is traveling with one parent, then it is also worth having a notarized power of attorney from the remaining parent. If the child is under 14 years old, then it must be entered in the parent’s passport.
Weather in Armenia
Most of the country is dominated by a continental mountain climate. Due to the location at a fairly high altitude above sea level and the significant dissection of the relief, the weather can be different even at the smallest distances. Summers are dry and quite hot, and winters, though not long, are cold. In summer, in the foothills, the temperature ranges from +22 to +26 C, and in winter +5 C. In the mountains, the average summer temperature is +10 +22 C, and in winter -14 C +2 C, depending on the height. The amount of precipitation also varies from height, which is 200-800 mm per year. It is best to go to Armenia in autumn and in the middle of spring. The most comfortable time to be in the country is from early spring to late autumn.
Transport
The transport system of Armenia consists of railway transport, the length of the railways is 830 km and 90% of the railways are electrified. The bus network is the most developed and connects almost all cities in the country. In Yerevan, the public transport system consists of one metro line, buses, trams, trolleybuses, cable cars and taxis.
Currency exchange in Armenia
As of October 2011, the national currency rate is 1 USD = 375.2 AMD. The national currency is the Armenian dram. You can exchange currency at exchange offices, of which there are a huge number in the country, at bank branches and large hotels. In most large stores, hotels and markets, you can use US dollars, and in some stores, Russian rubles. A dense network of exchange offices is found only in large cities, and outside of them you can only exchange money in banks. Traveler’s checks and credit cards are only accepted by big shops and hotels.
Electricity
220V/50Hz (European sockets).
Religion
Armenians are a believing country and the basis of the believing population is represented by Christians of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Russian Orthodox and Muslims also live in the country.
Security
Yerevan is considered one of the safest places in Europe. Here you can walk without fear for yourself at night. Of course, there is crime at the lowest level, but the tourist practically does not see it. In provincial cities, basic safety rules should be observed and personal property should be carefully monitored.
Health
Vaccination upon entry into the country is not required, there are no health risks. Due to the fact that pharmacies often do not have basic medicines, it is recommended to take first aid with you.