Syunik | |
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Information | |
Country | ![]() |
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Region | Southern armenia |
Area | 4 506 km² |
Postal code | 3201–3519 |
Location | |
![]() 39 ° 15 ′ 0 ″ N 46 ° 15 ′ 0 ″ E | |
Official site | |
Syunik is a region ofSouthern armenia.
Understand
The Syunik region is breathtaking. A veritable mosaic of high mountains, green valleys, rivers and waterfalls, rocks and deep jagged canyons. Also called Zangezur, it is the largest province of Armenia (4,506 km ²) and is made up of the districts of Kapan, Goris, Sisian and Meghri. Geology enthusiasts appreciate the various rock formations there which bear witness to the region's turbulent volcanic past, in the form of caves, eroded canyons, pyramid-shaped rocks such as those of Goris. The main north-south artery connecting Armenia to Iran winds through the Tashtun Passes (2.400 m), Vorotan (2.344 m), and Sisian (2.345 m). Syunik is also rich in mineral springs. The highest point of Syunik is the summit of Zangezur Kaputjukh which culminates at 3.904 m, while its lowest level is in the valley of the Araks river at 375 meters altitude. Syunik has a wide range of microclimates: tropical dry, warm and cold temperate, and snowy in the mountains. The hottest area of Armenia is in the Meghri Plains, along the Iranian border. The hospitality of the people of Syunik as well as its culinary traditions undoubtedly exceeds all expectations. Among the dishes to taste, the cheese of Sisian, the stunning blackberry vodka of Karahunj, the lavash (Armenian bread) of Kapan, as well as the tasty pomegranates and figs of Meghri. The Ughtasar petroglyph field, the megalithic site of Zorats Karer or Karahunj, the Tatev monastery, those of Bgheno-Noravank, Vorotnavank and Vahanavank are among the most majestic sites in the region. Nature also offers wonderful sites such as Sev Lich, Saki Falls, and Shikahogh. The flora of the region is rich and full of surprises. The forests of Meghri are home to multiple species of trees and shrubs. The fauna consists of Chamois, wild boars, Caucasian bears, lynxes and squirrels which find refuge in the hills and forests of the region.
Regions
Cities
- 1 Kapan ((hy) Կապան) – located at the foot of Khustup mountain (3.214 m), is the center of the region. This city is known for its cultural richness and its copper and molybdenum mines.
- 2 Kajaran ((hy) Քաջարան) – is famous for its mineral water and mining. Roman helmets and shields were discovered during works in the city. These remains bear witness to the defeat suffered by the Roman legions two thousand years ago. On the Kapuyt Lich (blue lake), located at 3.250 m above sea level you can see icebergs drifting on the smooth surface of the lake, even during the summer months.
- 3 Meghri ((hy) Մեղրի) – The Meghri site has a rich archaeological heritage. Swords, bracelets, necklaces and other objects dating from the Bronze Age have been removed from the earth during excavations.
- 4 Goris ((hy) Գորիս) – is a quaint little town stationed on the banks of the Vararik River. We discover an ethnographic museum as well as caves and rock formations in its surroundings.
- 5 Sissian ((hy) Սիսիան) – the city straddling the two banks of the Vorotan river, appears like an oasis among a gigantic expanse of plains. This city is frequented for its fantastic natural cold springs, mineral water and unique beauty.