Illustration
The hills surrounding Khor Virap Monastery once contained the important, early Armenian capital of ancient Artashat or "Artaxiasata." This city was built by King Artaxias I (r. c. 190-159 BCE) -- the founder of the Artaxiad dynasty -- in c. 180 BCE.
About the Author

James is a writer and former Professor of History. He holds an MA in World History with a particular interest in cross-cultural exchange and world history. He is a co-founder of Ancient History Encyclopedia and formerly was its Communications Director.