Mount Armaghan, a dormant volcano reaching 2,829 meters, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike in Armenia's Gegharkunik province. The climb can be demanding due to loose rock underfoot, but the summit boasts stunning views and a unique historical site.
A small, nearly circular lake fills part of the volcanic crater at the peak, reflecting the vast sky. It dries out in the hot summer and in spring time it is more than 15 meters deep. There is a legend that sky fairies come down to drink from the lake. I also tried to drink from the lake but my friends discouraged me. Locals consider this lake and mountain as a holy space.
And indeed, adjacent to the recently constructed church (built in 2009) is an ancient cemetery with weathered pagan gravestones. These stones, adorned with symbols of fertility and human figures, have round sun-like symbols which point at the region's pre-Christian times. Their presence serves as a reminder of how history unfolds in this region, with new cultures often obscuring the remnants of older ones.
Beyond the historical significance, the mountain itself offers a diverse ecosystem. We meet a fox on the lower slopes and a colorful variety of wildflowers.
Be prepared for a demanding hike, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
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