Aragatsotn marz (region) is located in the West of the Republic of Armenia, on the slopes of Aragats mountains, including the territory between the Aragats highlands, the Pambak and Tsakhkuniats mountains. The highest peak in the Republic is Aragats (4090) which is situated in Aragatsotn marz. Mount Aragats is magnificent natural monument with four peaks of volcanic origin, and a lake in the center. Aragats has always attracted the attention of travelers, tourists and geologists because the slopes of the mountains are covered with traces of early civilization. There are many legends, sayings and songs about the mountain. The Kasakh, Amberd, Geghagor and other small rivers flow through the territory of the marz.
The village of Oshakan has been mentioned by Armenian historians since 440 AD, specifically in reference to the creator of the Armenian alphabet, Mesrob Mashtots. The St. Mesrop Mashtots church, constructed in 1875-1879, is located in the center of the village, with his grave (443). In the village, there is also a solitary early medieval obelisk (V-VII), and the Mankanots church. The village Byurakan, located on the slope of Mount Aragats, is the cradle of Armenian astronomical achievements. The Byurakan observatory was established in 1946, it’s located at 1500m. above sea level. It is one of the largest astronomical centers in the world. In the village of Byurakan there are numerous monuments. Seven kilometers to the north, the town-fortress of Ambered was established during the reign of the Kamsarid rulers in VII c. and remained till the end of XIV c.. The fortress is situated at 2300 meters above sea level. In the same fortress there were constructed 1026 buildings, including a church, citadel, and baths. The Monastery of Hovhanavank can be viewed from a distance, founded at the beginning of IV century when St. Gregory the Illuminator constructed a mono nave basilica. The construction of Saghmosavank took place during 1215-1290, and is famous for its depository of manuscripts established in 1255.
The center of the region is Ashtarak, an ancient settlement full of historical architectural monuments constructed in different periods (11 millennium B.C. to XVIII A.D.). The most interesting and attractive monuments are the churches of Tsiranavor (X-XIII), Karmravor (VII-XIX), Marine (1281), St. Sarkis (XIII) and Spitakavor (XIII).
