The Kingdom of Urartu

The Kingdom of Urartu was an ancient civilization that thrived around 9th to 6th centuries BCE in the mountainous region near modern Armenia and Turkey. Known for their advanced irrigation, fortifications, and metalwork, they played a key role in the political landscape of the Near East. Urartu was a predecessor to later Armenian kingdoms, and their capital, Tushpa (modern-day Van), was a major cultural and military center. The Urartians spoke their own language, built impressive stone fortresses, and left behind inscriptions and artifacts that reveal a sophisticated and resilient society battling neighboring powers.