Argishtikhinili

Argishtikhinili was an important city of the kingdom of Urartu, founded around 776 BC by King Argishti I during Urartu's expansion into the Ararat plain and named in his honor. For some two centuries, from the 8th to the 6th century BC, it served as a major administrative and agricultural center, supported by an extensive network of canals and vineyards. Today its ruins spread over low hills near the village of Nor Armavir, where excavations have revealed fortifications, foundations and cuneiform inscriptions. From the summit there are sweeping views over the plain toward Mount Ararat, making it a rewarding stop for those interested in Armenia's ancient, pre-Christian past.