Armenia is a country located in the southern Caucasus region between Asia and Europe. Situated east of Turkey, Armenia is considered part of Western Asia as well as Eastern Europe due to its geographic location and cultural ties. Many are curious about Armenia’s exact location on the world map, as it’s lesser known compared to some of its neighboring countries.
An Overview of Armenia’s Geographic Location
Armenia is a landlocked country, meaning it does not border any oceans or seas. The country’s area covers about 29,800 square kilometers or 11,500 square miles, making it relatively small compared to many nations.
Bordered by Mountain Ranges
Several mountain ranges border Armenia. To the north and east, Armenia is bordered by Georgia and Azerbaijan. The Lesser Caucasus mountain range runs along Armenia’s northern border, while the Alborz and Talysh mountain ranges border Armenia on the east.
Situated on the Upland Plateau
Most of Armenia sits on the Armenian Highland, which is a large upland plateau covering much of Eastern Anatolia and the Southern Caucasus. This plateau has an average height of 5,600 feet above sea level. The northern and western regions of Armenia feature forested hills and mountains.
Major Bodies of Water
While Armenia is landlocked, it does have some major bodies of water within its borders. Lake Sevan, a major freshwater lake, is situated in the central part of the country. The Aras River forms part of Armenia’s border with Turkey and Iran to the southwest. Armenia’s CAPITAL Yerevan is situated along the Hrazdan River.
Armenia’s Geographic Coordinates Pinpoint its Exact Location
To understand Armenia’s precise location on a map, looking at its geographic coordinates helps place it within the region.
Latitude and Longitude
Armenia lies at the coordinates 40°00′N 45°00′E. Its capital Yerevan is situated at 40°10′N 44°31′E.
Bordering Countries
Armenia shares borders with four countries:
- Turkey to the west
- Georgia to the north
- Azerbaijan to the east
- Iran to the south
So Armenia’s location is just south of Georgia, nestled between Turkey and Azerbaijan.
Relation to Bodies of Water
Though landlocked, Armenia is situated relatively close to the Black Sea to its west and the Caspian Sea to its east. Lake Sevan lies in the central part of the country.
A Look at Armenia on a World Map
Pinpointing Armenia on a world map helps provide geographical context. The country sits at the crossroads between Europe and Asia.
Crossroads Between Continents
Armenia’s location between the continents of Europe and Asia gives it cultural and political significance. For this reason, it’s sometimes referred to as being part of both Western Asia and Eastern Europe.
Bordering the Middle East
On a world map, it becomes clear Armenia borders the Middle Eastern countries of Turkey, Iran, and Azerbaijan. Its southern location and proximity to the Middle East give it ties to the region.
South of Russia
Looking at a map also shows Armenia’s position south of the country of Russia. While independent, Armenia remains under Russia’s political, economic, and military influence.
West of the Caspian Sea
Though landlocked, Armenia sits just west of the Caspian Sea, the largest enclosed inland body of water on Earth. The Caspian Sea and its coastal areas have major significance for trade and transport routes.
Brief History of Armenia
Armenia has a long, rich history dating back thousands of years. Understanding its past sheds light on this country’s significance.
One of the Oldest Civilizations
The Armenian people represent one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with a unique culture and language. Archaeologists have found evidence of human settlements in Armenia dating back to 4000 BC.
First Christian Nation
In 301 AD, Armenia became the first country in the world to officially adopt Christianity as its state religion. It took the title from the Roman Empire, where Christianity also first began.
Conquered Throughout History
Due to its strategic location, Armenia has been conquered frequently throughout history by major powers like the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. It enjoyed brief periods of independence until the 20th century.
Modern-Day Republic
In 1991, after the fall of the Soviet Union, Armenia became an independent republic. It remains closely tied to Russia politically and economically.
Significance of Armenia’s Geography
From its position between Europe and Asia to its proximity to major bodies of water, Armenia’s geographic location has significantly shaped its history and culture.
Strategic Position
Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Armenia has been of major strategic importance since ancient times. Numerous kingdoms and empires conquered and traded with Armenia due to its key location linking east and west.
Influence from Two Continents
Its place between two continents has given Armenia a blend of European and Asian influences evident in its food, music, architecture, and religious sites. Armenia combines European and Middle Eastern cultures.
Vulnerability Due to Lack of Access to Open Waters
With no access to oceans or seas, Armenia has always been dependent on neighboring countries for imports and exports. This has made Armenia prone to blockades by surrounding powers.
Lake Sevan and Natural Resources
Despite being landlocked, Armenia has plentiful natural resources, especially mineral deposits. Lake Sevan provides key resources like freshwater fish, pearls, and hydropower capabilities.
Conclusion
While relatively small in size, Armenia holds an important strategic location connecting Europe and the Middle East. Situated on a high plateau south of the Caucasus mountains, this ancient Christian nation has a rich history influenced by its geographic position at the crossroads of empires and cultures over centuries. Examining Armenia on a map provides insights into how its fertile lands and natural resources, yet lack of access to seas, have shaped the country’s politics and trade throughout the ages.
FAQs:
What continents is Armenia located between?
Armenia is situated between Europe and Asia, acting as a bridge between the two continents. It shares cultural influences from both regions.
Which countries border Armenia?
Armenia shares borders with Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Iran. It does not have access to any seas or oceans.
What major bodies of water are located in Armenia?
Lake Sevan, a massive freshwater lake, sits in central Armenia. The Aras River forms part of Armenia’s border with Turkey and Iran. The capital Yerevan lies along the Hrazdan River.
How old is Armenian civilization?
Archaeologists have discovered evidence of ancient human settlements in Armenia dating back over 6000 years to around 4000 BC, making Armenian culture one of the oldest in the world.
What empires conquered and traded with Armenia in ancient times?
Throughout history, Armenia was frequently conquered and traded with by major powers like the Roman, Byzantine, Persian, Ottoman, and Russian empires due to its strategic location linking Europe and Asia.
