Arzanene

Map of the provinces of the Kingdom of Armenia in 150, including Arzanene (Aghdznik)

Arzanene (Greek: Ἀρζανηνή) or Ałdznik’ (Armenian: Աղձնիք,^[a] also Ałdzneats’ ashkharh 'land of Ałdznik') was one of the historical provinces of Greater Armenia. It was located in upper basin of the Tigris River, within the territory of present-day southeastern Turkey. The province held considerable strategic and economic importance due to its position along major trade routes. Arzanene was known for its fertile lands, developed settlements, and fortified cities. During the early medieval period, it played a significant role in the political, economic, and cultural life of Armenia.^[1]

Name

The Greek and Roman names of the province, Arzanēnē and Arzanena, derive from the name of the city Arzan,^[2] known in Armenian as Ałdzn or Arzn.^[3] The name has been connected with the Alzi or Alše mentioned in Urartian and Neo-Assyrian sources.^[3] Michał Marciak writes that this identification is "possible, but not beyond question, as the meaning of this term appears to vary in ancient sources."^[4] The name is of pre-Armenian origin. According to Hakobyan et al., it derives from the name of a certain tribe.^[5] On the other hand, Marciak observes that "the toponym Arzanene and its cognates never appear as an ethnonym […] or as an ethnic adjective. In this light, Arzanene appears to be a country without regard to an ethnic entity."^[6] Pliny the Elder refers to a people called the Azoni, which Robert Hewsen believes to be a misspelling of *Arzoni, apparently referring to the people of Arzanene as if forming a distinct ethnic group.^[7]

Territorial characteristics

The territory of the province of Aghdznik, covering approximately 17,532 km², was characterized by sharply contrasting relief and geographically strategic units of exceptional importance. One of the most significant and central areas of the province was the plain of Tigranakert (Nphrkert). It stood out for its warm subtropical climate, fertile soils, and abundant water resources, making it one of the largest centers of horticulture, cotton cultivation, and grain production in all of southern Armenia.^[8] In addition to the Tigranakert plain, the valleys of Arzni (Aghdzn) and Kaghirt also held considerable importance. These areas included extensive foothill regions and were notable for their economic and trade value. They served as natural communication routes between Mesopotamia and the Armenian Highlands.A special place was occupied by the mountainous region of Sanasun (Sasna), which, unlike the southern plains, was distinguished by its rugged gorges and inaccessible elevations. This area held exceptional strategic significance, functioning as a powerful northern defensive barrier of the province. For centuries, it ensured the region’s autonomy and resilience against external invasions.^[9]

Location

Aghdznik was one of the key provinces of Greater Armenia, considered a “border province” due to its direct frontiers with its southern neighbors—Syria and Mesopotamia. The province was located in the southwestern part of Greater Armenia, within the basin of the upper reaches of the Western Tigris, and by virtue of its strategic position, it functioned as a powerful barrier between the Armenian Highlands and the plains of Mesopotamia.^[9]

The borders of Aghdznik were largely defined by prominent natural mountainous barriers. To the north, it bordered the province of Turuberan, with the boundary running along the high mountain ranges of the Armenian Taurus , known for their impassable gorges and defensive significance. This area also served as a natural watershed between the basins of the Aratsani and the Tigris rivers.To the south, the boundary of Aghdznik extended along the Masius (Masion) Mountains, which separated the province from Northern Mesopotamia . This frontier was of vital importance, as it controlled the trade and military routes leading into the inner regions of Armenia.To the west, the province bordered Tsopk (Sophene, the Fourth Armenia), with the boundary stretching along the lower course of the Kaghirt River. To the east, it adjoined the province of Mokk, where the boundary passed along the western slopes of the Corduene Mountains. This system of natural borders not only defined administrative divisions but also made Aghdznik the strongest southern fortress of Greater Armenia^[10]

In terms of territorial structure, Aghdznik included several major geographical units that played different roles in the life of the province. Among them, the plain of Tigranakert (Nphrkert) was the most important, considered the “heart” of the province due to its exceptional fertility, abundance of water, and its role as a center of Hellenistic civilization. In addition, the Sasna mountains and the Arzni valley were significant, as their mountainous and foothill environments were suitable both for defensive fortifications and for the development of mining activities.^[11]

Strategic significance

Aghdznik held exceptional and vital strategic importance within Greater Armenia. This was primarily because of its frontier geographical position, which made the province the southern "defensive shield" of Armenia and the main barrier against invasions originating from Mesopotamia.Major communication and transit routes of the ancient world passed through Aghdznik, linking the Armenian Highlands with Northern Mesopotamia and Syria. The valleys of the Western Tigris and its tributaries formed the principal strategic corridors through which a significant portion of international trade flowed, including sections of the famous “Royal Road”. This factor not only contributed to the province’s economic strength but also made it a focal point of geopolitical confrontation between the Roman (Byzantine) Empire and Parthia (later Sasanian Iran).^[8]

Beyond its economic and transit role, Aghdznik was central to the military structure of Greater Armenia. As one of the four bdeshkhut’yuns (marcher lordships), its governor—the “Great Bdeshkh”—was endowed with special authority and commanded substantial military forces (around 4,000 cavalry). The northern mountainous zone, formed by the high ranges of the Armenian Taurus, functioned as a natural defensive system. Its impassable gorges and passes allowed relatively small forces to resist large enemy armies and effectively shield the central provinces of Armenia, particularly Turuberan and Ayrarat.^[8]

Climate and natural conditions

The province of Aghdznik was characterized by highly distinctive and contrasting climatic conditions, significantly different from those of its northern neighbors, particularly the highland and colder climate of Turuberan. This contrast was обусловված the province’s lower elevation and the influence of the Armenian Taurus mountain range, which blocked the intrusion of cold northern air masses and allowed the penetration of warm air from Mesopotamia.^[11]

Climatically, the southern part of Aghdznik can be described as having a dry subtropical climate, while the northern part exhibited a temperate mountainous climate. Winters in the plains were short and mild, whereas summers were extremely hot and prolonged. This thermal regime enabled the cultivation of heat-loving crops such as cotton, pomegranate, olive, and fig, which could not be grown in the higher provinces of Greater Armenia. Annual precipitation ranged between 400–600 mm, which, particularly in the southern districts, necessitated artificial irrigation.^[11]

Hydrographic system

Aghdznik was one of the water-rich regions of Greater Armenia, possessing a well-developed hydrographic network. The main water artery of the province was the Western Tigris, which flowed through its southern part and, together with its numerous tributaries, created an extensive system of fertile valleys. Of particular importance was the Kaghirt (Batman) River, which, cutting through the Taurus Mountains, irrigated the vast plain of Tigranakert.In addition to rivers, Aghdznik was known for its cold springs and mountain streams, originating from the Sasna and Gzekh mountains, which enriched the lower plains.^[12]

Flora and fauna

The natural environment of the province was also marked by diversity. The northern mountainous regions (Sasun, Gzekh) were covered with dense forests of oak, cypress, and walnut, which served both as natural shelters and sources of construction material. In the plains, steppe vegetation predominated, with widespread wild fruit trees.The fauna was rich in both mountain and plain species. The mountains were inhabited by wild goats, mouflons, and bears, while the warmer valleys hosted various reptiles and birds.^[12]

Population

The indigenous population of Aghdznik historically consisted of Armenians, and the tribal and clan structures formed here laid the foundation for the strengthening of the Aghdznik bdeshkhut’yun. Unlike the inner provinces, the ethnic composition of Aghdznik was more diverse due to its frontier location; alongside Armenians, Assyrian and other Semitic elements were also present.^[8]

In terms of social structure, the population of Aghdznik was highly stratified. At the top of the ruling class stood the Bdeshkh of Aghdznik, one of the four most influential governors of Greater Armenia. This elite not only bore military responsibility for the southern borders but also enjoyed broad autonomy, which often led to political conflicts with the central authority.Another important segment of society was the clergy, as Aghdznik was known for its early Christian sanctuaries and monasteries.^[13] The majority of the population consisted of peasants and highlanders. In the mountainous districts (Sasun, Gzekh, Salno Gorge), the population was primarily engaged in animal husbandry and hunting, while in the plains—especially around Tigranakert and Arzni—agriculture was highly developed, particularly irrigated farming.Urban centers, the largest of which was Tigranakert, concentrated artisans and merchants engaged in international trade, giving the city a multicultural character. In the late medieval period, the plains of the region came under Arab influence, leading to the formation of Muslim emirates (for example, the Emirate of Arzni).^[13]

Administrative division

According to the Ashkharatsuyts, the province of Aghdznik had a clearly defined administrative structure based on district (gavar) divisions and the system of bdeshkh (marcher lordship) governance. Unlike the inner provinces, the administrative system of Aghdznik had a distinctly militarized character, the necessity of border defense.One of the most prominent districts of Aghdznik was Nphrkert, which served as the political and administrative center of the province. At its core stood the city of Tigranakert, founded by Tigranes the Great as the southern capital of his empire . Nphrkert long retained its strategic importance, functioning as the residence of the Bdeshkhs of Aghdznik.^[9]

Another important district was Arzn (Aghdzn), located in the valley of the Arzn River, a tributary of the Tigris.^[14] It was known for its eponymous center, which served as a major hub of trade and craftsmanship. This district was closely connected to the economic strength of the Aghdznik bdeshkh.The district of Sanasun (Sasun) occupied the northern mountainous regions of the province. In contrast to the plains, Sasun enjoyed a high degree of internal autonomy and was renowned for its impregnable fortresses and warlike population. It later became the cradle of Armenian traditional resistance and epic heroism.In total, Aghdznik consisted of 10 districts: Arzn, Nphrkert, Kagh, Ketik, Tatik, Aznvats Dzor, Erkhetk (Herkhetk), Gzekh, Salno Dzor, and Sanasun. The main administrative centers of the province in different periods were Tigranakert and Arzn. Tigranakert stood out as a large Hellenistic-type metropolis and military stronghold, while Arzn was known as a center of transit trade.A distinctive feature of the administrative system was the presence of the Aghdznik bdeshkh. This was a special administrative unit whose ruler, the Bdeshkh, possessed near-royal authority, his own banner, and army. A significant portion of the province’s districts was under his direct control, which ensured centralized and effective border defense.^[14]

Districts of the province

The district division of Aghdznik was notable for its strategic diversity, with each district playing a specific role in the defensive and economic system of the marcher lordship.The district of Nphrkert was considered not only the political and cultural core of Aghdznik but also one of the key southern centers of Greater Armenia. Located in the basin of the Kaghirt River, it held exceptional historical importance as the site of Tigranakert, the imperial capital. It served as the primary residence of the Bdeshkhs and possessed a powerful fortification system controlling the routes leading into the heart of Armenia.^[9]

Another major district was Arzn (Aghdzn), known from Armenian tradition and cuneiform sources as an ancient settlement. Situated in the valley of the Arzn River, it was distinguished by developed crafts and international trade. The city of Arzn functioned as the economic center of the province, where trade routes from Mesopotamia and Asia Minor intersected.^[8]

The district of Sanasun (Sasun) held great strategic importance, with its center at the fortress of Sanasun. Located in the northern mountainous zone of Aghdznik, it served as a natural defensive barrier controlling the passes of the Taurus Mountains. Sasun was known for its autonomous way of life and impregnable fortresses, later becoming a symbol of Armenian resistance.^[8]

The district of Gzekh encompassed forested mountainous areas rich in vegetation and mineral resources, which supported the development of metallurgy. Its center was the settlement of Gzekh. Similarly, Salno Dzor was known as a difficult-to-access and well-protected area, where fortresses such as Salno served to maintain internal stability.^[8]

Districts and their centers:

• Arzn (Aghdzn) – center: Arzn
• Nphrkert – center: Tigranakert
• Kagh – center: Kagh (Kekh)
• Ketik – center: (limited information available)
• Tatik – center: Tatik
• Aznvats Dzor – center: Aznvats Dzor
• Erkhetk (Herkhetk) – center: Herkhet
• Gzekh – center: Gzekh
• Salno Dzor – center: Salno Fortress
• Sanasun (Sasun) – center: Sanasun

History

In the first half of the first millennium BCE, Arzanene may have been the location of the state of Alzi or Alše mentioned in Assyrian and Urartian cuneiform inscriptions.^[15] It was conquered by the Kingdom of Urartu (c. 9th–6th centuries BCE), then came under the control of the Medes and soon after passed to the Achaemenid Empire. Under Achaemenid rule, Arzanene was included in the Satrapy of Armenia. The Persian Royal Road passed through the province. After the conquest of the Achaemenid Empire by Alexander the Great in 330 BCE, Arzanene became a part of the Armenian kingdom ruled by the Orontid dynasty. The local princes of Arzanene claimed Assyrian royal origin, but in all likelihood they were originally a branch of the Orontid dynasty. During the reign of Tigranes the Great, under whom Armenia reached its greatest territorial extent, Arzanene became the center of his short-lived empire as the location of the new capital of Tigranocerta.^[15] It was probably under Tigranes that the bdeshkhut’iwn of Arzanene was established to defend Armenia from an invasion from Mesopotamia.^[16] The office of the bdeashkh of Arzanene continued to exist under the Arsacid dynasty of Armenia and after the region was lost by Armenia, until at least the mid-5th century.^[15]

In 298 AD, the entire bdeshkhut’iwn of Arzanene came under the suzerainty of the Roman Empire as a result of the Peace of Nisibis.^[15] However, the 5th-century Armenian historian Faustus of Byzantium (Book 3, Chapter 8) still speaks of the bdeashkh of Arzanene as a vassal of the king of Armenia in the 330s, which Toumanoff accepts as evidence that the Romans had effectively left Arzanene under Armenian suzerainty.^[17] In the 330s, bdeashkh Bakur of Arzanene attempted to defect to the Sasanian Empire, but was killed in battle and the province consequently remained under Roman (or Roman-Armenian) control.^[15][17] The emperor Jovian was forced to give up suzerainty over Arzanene to the Persians according to the peace treaty signed in 363 after Julian's failed Persian expedition.^[18] Faustus of Byzantium (Book 5, Chapter 16) names Arzanene among the provinces reconquered for Armenia by Mushegh Mamikonian c. 371, during the reign of King Pap.^[15] After the Peace of Acilisene of 387, Arzanene was divided between Rome and the Sasanian Empire (with most of it going to the Persians), and until 591 the Roman-Sasanian border passed through the western part of the province.^[15] During the Armenian rebellion of 450–451 against the Sasanian Empire, the Armenian rebels appealed to the bdeashkh of Arzanene as a foreign ruler; this is the last time that any bdeashkh of Arzanene is mentioned in the classical sources.^[19] By 591, all of Arzanene had been annexed by the Byzantine Empire. On the ruins of Tigranocerta, the Romans built a new city named Martyropolis or Np’rkert.^[20] In c. 640, the Arab general Iyad ibn Ghanm invaded Arzanene from Syria.^[21] Following the Arab conquest of Armenia, many Arab tribes settled in Arzanene, especially in the lowlands.^[20] The Armenian population remained in the mountainous parts of the region until the Armenian genocide in 1915.^[20]

Culture, education, and spiritual life

As the southern gateway of Greater Armenia, Aghdznik played a key role in the development of Armenian culture and civilization. Its cultural identity was shaped by the synthesis of a rich Hellenistic heritage and early Christian traditions. The province became one of the major centers of Armenian statehood and military art, later influencing the ideological layers of the Armenian national epic.Monastic complexes and urban centers in Aghdznik served as important educational and spiritual hubs during the medieval period. Tigranakert and Arzn, in particular, were major centers of manuscript production and learning, contributing to the development of Armenian medieval intellectual thought.An integral part of the province’s cultural heritage is the Armenian epic Daredevils of Sasun, whose historical foundations, landscapes, and spirit are directly connected to the district of Sasun. The ideals of freedom and the imagery of impregnable mountains reflected in the epic mirror the historical character of the population of Aghdznik.^[22]

Spiritual and historical monuments

The most prominent spiritual and political center of the region was Tigranakert (in the district of Nphrkert). As the imperial capital founded by Tigranes the Great, it was surrounded by massive walls reaching 25 meters in height and contained palaces, theaters, and public buildings. After the adoption of Christianity, the city became an important episcopal center with numerous churches and monasteries.Another key spiritual center was Arzn, known for its early medieval ecclesiastical architecture. The clergy of the district held considerable influence over the internal life of the marcher lordship. The province also featured numerous cave monasteries and fortified monastic complexes, which served both as spiritual retreats and defensive positions during Arab and Seljuk invasions.^[9]

The fortress of Sanasun (Sasun) held exceptional strategic and historical importance. Situated on high, inaccessible cliffs, it was one of the most impregnable strongholds in the region. In later centuries, the fortresses of Sasun (such as Tsovasar) became symbols of the Armenian fedayi movement and national liberation struggles.Another important strategic center was Baghesh (Bitlis), which, although sometimes associated with Turuberan, was closely connected with Aghdznik and functioned as a “gateway” to Mesopotamia. Its fortress controlled key mountain passes through the Taurus range.Aznvats Dzor also held religious and cultural significance, known for its fertile valleys and picturesque monasteries, supported by the patronage of the Bdeshkh family, which contributed to the development of local architectural styles.^[9]

Natural landmarks of Aghdznik included the gorges of the Tigris and the majestic peaks of the Sasna highlands, which served not only as natural defenses but also as sources of inspiration for Armenian folklore and epic tradition.^[11]

Economic and trade life

The economy of Aghdznik was highly active, обусловված its geographical position as the southern “gateway” of Greater Armenia and a transit corridor to Mesopotamia. The province was a major hub of international trade, with Tigranakert and Arzn playing central roles.Tigranakert, as the southern capital, functioned as a major center of crafts and caravan trade, where routes from the Mediterranean, Syria, and the Persian Gulf converged. Arzn, in turn, was known as a major marketplace that controlled the economic flow of the Tigris basin^[9]

The foundation of the province’s economy was its developed and diversified agriculture, concentrated in the plains of Tigranakert and the Arzn valley. Thanks to the warm climate and water resources, horticulture and crop cultivation flourished. Aghdznik was known for heat-loving crops such as cotton, figs, pomegranates, and olives.Animal husbandry was also significant, particularly in the northern mountainous regions of Sasun and Gzekh, where rich pastures supported the production of wool and leather for export to Mesopotamian markets. A unique component of the economy was the extraction of oil and natural bitumen, mentioned by ancient historians, which provided additional resource advantages.^[8]

Military-political significance

Aghdznik held primary strategic importance in the history of Greater Armenia as the southern defensive pillar of the state. The foundation of its military-political system was the Aghdznik bdeshkhut’yun.The Bdeshkh of Aghdznik (“Great Bdeshkh”) was one of the most trusted and powerful commanders of the Armenian king, authorized to maintain his own army of around 4,000 cavalry. According to the Zoranamak, the military forces of Aghdznik played a crucial role in defending the southern borders.The defensive system of the province relied on the impassable passes of the Armenian Taurus and its strong fortifications. The citadel of Tigranakert controlled the plains, while the fortresses of Sanasun and Salno Dzor formed a second defensive line preventing enemy incursions into Turuberan and Ayrarat. This structure made Aghdznik one of the most organized military regions of Greater Armenia.^{[citation needed]}

Road network

The geographical position of Aghdznik made it a vital hub of international communication. The province was crossed by the most important transit routes of Greater Armenia.The most significant route passed through the valley of the Western Tigris, connecting Tigranakert with major Mesopotamian cities such as Nisibis and Edessa.^[23] This route served as a primary corridor of international trade, transporting spices, silk, and precious stones.Another key route was the north-south axis linking Tigranakert through the Baghesh (Bitlis) pass to Turuberan. This was a strategic route used by Armenian armies for interprovincial movement. Numerous caravanserais and inns operated along these roads, ensuring the safety and rest of merchants.Bridges over the Tigris and its tributaries were an essential part of the road network, enabling rapid troop movements even during floods. From a military perspective, these routes were controlled by guard posts and small fortifications, making the road network stable and economically beneficial for the state.^[23]

Notes

1. Hübschmann-Meillet transliteration: Ałjnikʻ. Also transcribed Aghdznik after the modern Eastern Armenian pronunciation.

References

1. "Dictionary of Toponyms of Armenia and Adjacent Regions, by T. Kh. Hakobyan, St. T. Melik-Bakhshyan, and H. Kh. Barseghyan – Aghdznik". www.nayiri.com. Retrieved March 12, 2022.
2. Marciak 2017, p. 222.
3. Hewsen 1992, p. 157.
4. Marciak 2017, pp. 222–223.
5. Hakobyan, Melik-Bakhshyan & Barseghyan 1986, p. 180.
6. Marciak 2017, p. 223.
7. Hewsen 1992, p. 158.
8. Nahapetyan, Rafik (1984). Aghdznik in the Cuneiform Period. Lraber of Social Sciences.
9. "Cities of Historical Armenia". www.armenianhouse.org. Retrieved March 12, 2022.
10. Anania Shirakatsi (1944). Ashkharatsuyts. Yerevan.
11. Hakobyan, Tadeos (1984). Historical Geography of Armenia. Erevan: Yerevan State University.
12. T. Kh. Hakobyan (2007). Historical Geography of Armenia. Erevan.
13. S. T. Yeremian (1963). Armenia according to the "Ashkharatsuyts". Erevan.
14. Harutyunian, Babken (2001). Administrative-Political Division of Greater Armenia according to the “Ashkharatsuyts”. Երևան: Yerevan State University Press. p. 402.
15. Hewsen 1992, p. 158, n. 45.
16. Hewsen 1992, pp. 158, 161, n. 45.
17. Toumanoff 1961, p. 30.
18. Toumanoff 1961, p. 4.
19. Toumanoff 1961, p. 31.
20. Yeremyan 1975.
21. Hewsen 1992, p. 159, n. 45.
22. L. Babayan (1964). Socio-Economic and Political History of Armenia in the 13th–14th Centuries. Academy of Sciences of the Armenian SSR.
23. Manandyan H. (1936). The Main Roads of Armenia. Erevan.

Bibliography

• Hakobyan, T. Kh.; Melik-Bakhshyan; Barseghyan (1986). Hayastani ev harakitsʻ shrjanneri teghanunneri baṛaran Հայաստանի և հարակից շրջանների տեղանունների բառարան [Dictionary of Toponymy of Armenia and Adjacent Territories]. Vol. 1. Yerevan University Publishing House.
• Hakobyan, T. Kh. (1984). Hayastani patmakan ashkharhagrutʻyun Հայաստանի պատմական աշխարհագրություն [Historical geography of Armenia] (in Armenian) (4th ed.). Yerevan University Publishing House.
• Hakobyan, T. Kh. (1987). Patmakan Hayastani kʻaghakʻnerě Պատմական Հայաստանի քաղաքները [Cities of historical Armenia] (in Armenian). Yerevan: Hayastan.
• Hewsen, Robert H. (1992). The Geography of Ananias of Širak (Ašxarhac῾oyc῾): The Long and the Short Recensions. Wiesbaden: Dr. Ludwig Reichert Verlag. ISBN 3-88226-485-3.
• Hübschmann, Heinrich (1904). Die altarmenischen Ortsnamen (in German). Straßburg: Verlag von Karl J. Trübner.
• Nahapetyan, Rafik. "Aghdznikʻě sepagir shrjanum" Աղձնիքը սեպագիր շրջանում [Aghdznik in the cuneiform period]. Lraber Hasarakakan Gitutyunneri. 1 (1): 55–61.
• Anania Shirakatsi. Ashkharhatsuyts (Geography). Yerevan, 1944.
• Harutyunyan, B. The Administrative and Political Division of Greater Armenia According to the “Ashkharhatsuyts”. Yerevan: YSU Publishing House, 2001.
• Babayan, L. The Socio-Economic and Political History of Armenia in the 13th–14th Centuries. Yerevan: Academy of Sciences of the Armenian SSR, 1964.
• Manandyan, H. (1936). Hayastani glkhavor chanaparhnerĕ ĕst Pevtingeryan kʻartezi Հայաստանի գլխավոր ճանապարհները ըստ Պևտինգերյան քարտեզի [The main roads of Armenia according to the Peutinger map] (in Armenian). Yerevan: Githrati tparan.
• Marciak, Michał (2017). Sophene, Gordyene, and Adiabene: Three Regna Minora of Northern Mesopotamia Between East and West. Brill. ISBN 978-90-04-35072-4.
• Toumanoff, Cyril (1961). "Introduction to Christian Caucasian History: II: States and Dynasties of the Formative Period". Traditio. 17. Cambridge University Press: 1–106. doi:10.1017/S0362152900008473. JSTOR 27830424. S2CID 151524770.
• Yeremyan, S. (1975). "Aghdznikʻ" Աղձնիք. Haykakan sovetakan hanragitaran Հայկական սովետական հանրագիտարան [Armenian Soviet Encyclopedia] (in Armenian). Vol. 1. Yerevan: Haykakan hanragitarani glkhavor khmbagrutʻyun. p. 258.
• Yeremyan, Suren T. (1963). Hayastaně ěst "Ashkharhatsʻoytsʻ"-i Հայաստանը ըստ «Աշխարհացոյց»-ի [Armenia according to the "Ashkharhatsoyts"] (in Armenian). Yerevan: Armenian SSR Academy of Sciences Publishing.

38°00′00″N 41°41′00″E / 38.0000°N 41.6833°E / 38.0000; 41.6833