ARMENIAN HIGHLANDS Meaning and
Definition
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The Armenian Highlands, also known as the Armenian Plateau or Armenian Uplands, refer to a vast elevated region located in the South Caucasus, an area where Europe meets Asia. Spanning approximately 400,000 square kilometers, it is characterized by its mountainous landscape and diverse terrain. The Highlands are situated between the Black Sea to the west, the Caspian Sea to the east, the Anatolian Plateau to the west-southwest, and the Iranian Plateau to the southeast.
This region is historically and culturally significant as it has been home to the Armenian people for thousands of years. Armenians regard the Highlands as the birthplace of their civilization, with a rich heritage dating back to ancient times. The area is dotted with several historic sites including ancient fortresses, archaeological remains, and religious monuments.
Geographically, the Armenian Highlands are characterized by its volcanic peaks, deep valleys, and wide plateaus. The region is dominated by Mount Ararat, a dormant volcano that holds immense cultural and religious significance as it is claimed to be the landing site of Noah's Ark. The Highlands are also known for their stark beauty, featuring picturesque landscapes, alpine meadows, and dense forests.
In terms of biodiversity, the Armenian Highlands boast a wide range of flora and fauna, including endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The region's diverse wildlife includes various species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects.
Overall, the Armenian Highlands serve as both a geographical entity and a cultural epicenter, encompassing a rich tapestry of history, nature, and heritage.
Etymology of ARMENIAN HIGHLANDS
The term "Armenian Highlands" refers to a vast region situated in the southwestern part of Asia, encompassing the plateau known as the Armenian Plateau or Armenian Upland. etymology of the word "Armenian" can be traced back to the ancient Kingdom of Urartu, which was once a powerful state in the region.
The name "Armenia" is believed to derive from the Assyrian term "Urartu" or "Aramu" and dates back to around the 6th century BCE. Assyrian word "Urartu" was used to describe the kingdom that existed in the same region, and it is thought that the term "Urartu" itself may be derived from the Urartian language, which was spoken in the kingdom.
The Urartian language had several similarities to Armenian, and some linguists argue that it is an early form of the Armenian language.
