ancient history of Armenia

Ancient Armenia, located in the South Caucasus, has a rich history dating back to at least the 6th century BCE. It was known for its strategic location along trade routes connecting Europe and Asia. The Kingdom of Urartu, a major power in the region, emerged around the 9th century BCE. By the 1st century BCE, Armenia became a significant kingdom under Tigranes the Great, expanding its territory to include parts of modern-day Turkey and Iran. The region was influenced by Persian, Greek, and Roman cultures, and its early adoption of Christianity in the early 4th century CE made Armenia the first country to embrace the faith as a state religion.