What is the historical timeframe covered by the Kingdom of Greater Armenia?

The Kingdom of Greater Armenia, also known as Armenia Major, existed from 331 BC to 428 AD. This period spans classical antiquity and the early medieval era, encompassing significant political and cultural developments in the Ancient Near East.

Which successive royal dynasties shaped the history of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia?

The history of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia is marked by the reigns of three major royal dynasties: the Orontid dynasty (331–200 BC), the Artaxiad dynasty (189 BC–12 AD), and the Arsacid dynasty (52–428 AD). Each dynasty played a crucial role in defining Armenia's political landscape and its interactions with neighboring empires.

How did Armenia's political status evolve from its origins as a satrapy?

Armenia originated as a satrapy within the Achaemenid Empire, formed after the conquest of Urartu. It transitioned into a kingdom in 321 BC under the Orontid dynasty following Alexander the Great's conquests, becoming a Hellenistic kingdom. Later, it experienced periods as a Roman client state, a Roman province, and eventually saw its independent statehood end in 428 AD.

What were the primary capitals of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia throughout its history?

The Kingdom of Greater Armenia had several capitals during its existence. These included Armavir (331–210 BC), Yervandashat (210–176 BC), Artaxata (176–77 BC and 69–120 AD), Tigranocerta (77 BC–69 AD), Vagharshapat (120–330 AD), and Dvin (336–428 AD). The choice of capital often reflected the kingdom's political orientation and strategic needs.

What linguistic landscape characterized the Kingdom of Greater Armenia, and what was the significance of the creation of the Armenian alphabet?

Before the creation of the Armenian alphabet, Armenians used Aramaic and Greek scripts. The Armenian language was the native tongue, but Greek, Aramaic, and Iranian languages like Parthian and Middle Persian served as court languages. The creation of the Armenian alphabet by Mesrop Mashtots and Isaac of Armenia in AD 405 was pivotal, primarily enabling Bible translations and fostering a distinct Armenian literary tradition.

What religious traditions held sway in Armenia before the widespread adoption of Christianity?

Prior to the adoption of Christianity, Armenia was predominantly influenced by Zoroastrianism until the late Parthian period. The pre-Christian Armenian pantheon included deities such as Aramazd (akin to Ahura Mazda), Anahit (goddess of fertility), Vahagn (storm god), and Mihr (god of the sun). Zoroastrianism's influence began to decline with the spread of Christianity in the early 4th century.

What is the historical timeframe covered by the Kingdom of Greater Armenia?

The Kingdom of Greater Armenia, also known as Armenia Major, existed from 331 BC to 428 AD. This period spans classical antiquity and the early medieval era, encompassing significant political and cultural developments in the Ancient Near East.

Which successive royal dynasties shaped the history of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia?

The history of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia is marked by the reigns of three major royal dynasties: the Orontid dynasty (331–200 BC), the Artaxiad dynasty (189 BC–12 AD), and the Arsacid dynasty (52–428 AD). Each dynasty played a crucial role in defining Armenia's political landscape and its interactions with neighboring empires.

How did Armenia's political status evolve from its origins as a satrapy?

Armenia originated as a satrapy within the Achaemenid Empire, formed after the conquest of Urartu. It transitioned into a kingdom in 321 BC under the Orontid dynasty following Alexander the Great's conquests, becoming a Hellenistic kingdom. Later, it experienced periods as a Roman client state, a Roman province, and eventually saw its independent statehood end in 428 AD.

What were the primary capitals of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia throughout its history?

The Kingdom of Greater Armenia had several capitals during its existence. These included Armavir (331–210 BC), Yervandashat (210–176 BC), Artaxata (176–77 BC and 69–120 AD), Tigranocerta (77 BC–69 AD), Vagharshapat (120–330 AD), and Dvin (336–428 AD). The choice of capital often reflected the kingdom's political orientation and strategic needs.

What linguistic landscape characterized the Kingdom of Greater Armenia, and what was the significance of the creation of the Armenian alphabet?

Before the creation of the Armenian alphabet, Armenians used Aramaic and Greek scripts. The Armenian language was the native tongue, but Greek, Aramaic, and Iranian languages like Parthian and Middle Persian served as court languages. The creation of the Armenian alphabet by Mesrop Mashtots and Isaac of Armenia in AD 405 was pivotal, primarily enabling Bible translations and fostering a distinct Armenian literary tradition.

What religious traditions held sway in Armenia before the widespread adoption of Christianity?

Prior to the adoption of Christianity, Armenia was predominantly influenced by Zoroastrianism until the late Parthian period. The pre-Christian Armenian pantheon included deities such as Aramazd (akin to Ahura Mazda), Anahit (goddess of fertility), Vahagn (storm god), and Mihr (god of the sun). Zoroastrianism's influence began to decline with the spread of Christianity in the early 4th century.

What is the historical timeframe covered by the Kingdom of Greater Armenia?

The Kingdom of Greater Armenia, also known as Armenia Major, existed from 331 BC to 428 AD. This period spans classical antiquity and the early medieval era, encompassing significant political and cultural developments in the Ancient Near East.

Which successive royal dynasties shaped the history of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia?

The history of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia is marked by the reigns of three major royal dynasties: the Orontid dynasty (331–200 BC), the Artaxiad dynasty (189 BC–12 AD), and the Arsacid dynasty (52–428 AD). Each dynasty played a crucial role in defining Armenia's political landscape and its interactions with neighboring empires.

How did Armenia's political status evolve from its origins as a satrapy?

Armenia originated as a satrapy within the Achaemenid Empire, formed after the conquest of Urartu. It transitioned into a kingdom in 321 BC under the Orontid dynasty following Alexander the Great's conquests, becoming a Hellenistic kingdom. Later, it experienced periods as a Roman client state, a Roman province, and eventually saw its independent statehood end in 428 AD.

What were the primary capitals of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia throughout its history?

The Kingdom of Greater Armenia had several capitals during its existence. These included Armavir (331–210 BC), Yervandashat (210–176 BC), Artaxata (176–77 BC and 69–120 AD), Tigranocerta (77 BC–69 AD), Vagharshapat (120–330 AD), and Dvin (336–428 AD). The choice of capital often reflected the kingdom's political orientation and strategic needs.

What linguistic landscape characterized the Kingdom of Greater Armenia, and what was the significance of the creation of the Armenian alphabet?

Before the creation of the Armenian alphabet, Armenians used Aramaic and Greek scripts. The Armenian language was the native tongue, but Greek, Aramaic, and Iranian languages like Parthian and Middle Persian served as court languages. The creation of the Armenian alphabet by Mesrop Mashtots and Isaac of Armenia in AD 405 was pivotal, primarily enabling Bible translations and fostering a distinct Armenian literary tradition.

What religious traditions held sway in Armenia before the widespread adoption of Christianity?

Prior to the adoption of Christianity, Armenia was predominantly influenced by Zoroastrianism until the late Parthian period. The pre-Christian Armenian pantheon included deities such as Aramazd (akin to Ahura Mazda), Anahit (goddess of fertility), Vahagn (storm god), and Mihr (god of the sun). Zoroastrianism's influence began to decline with the spread of Christianity in the early 4th century.

What indigenous populations inhabited the Armenian Highlands prior to the emergence of a unified Armenian state?

Before the 9th century BC, the Armenian Highlands were inhabited by various tribes, including Proto-Armenians, who had not yet formed a unified state. The region was later dominated by the Kingdom of Urartu, also known as the Kingdom of Van or Ararat, which competed with Assyria for regional supremacy.

Which empires were responsible for the fall of Urartu and the subsequent reorganization of the Armenian Highlands?

Urartu fell to Iranian invaders, specifically the Medes around 590 BC, followed by the Achaemenid Persians. These conquests led to the reorganization of the territory into a satrapy called Armenia, marking a shift in regional power.

How did the Satrapy of Armenia transition into a kingdom under the Orontid dynasty?

Following Alexander the Great's conquest of Persia, the Satrapy of Armenia became part of the Hellenistic kingdoms. After Alexander's death, a Macedonian general named Neoptolemus briefly held Armenia until 321 BC, after which the Orontid dynasty re-established control, not as satraps, but as kings, marking the beginning of the Kingdom of Armenia.

How did the Seleucid Empire's influence impact the structure of the Armenian kingdom?

Under the Seleucid Empire, the Armenian throne was divided into two parts: Greater Armenia and Sophene. Both of these kingdoms eventually passed to members of the Artaxiad dynasty in 189 BC, consolidating power within a single ruling family.

How did the Roman victory at the Battle of Magnesia pave the way for the Artaxiad dynasty's establishment?

The Roman victory over the Seleucid Empire at the Battle of Magnesia in 190 BC weakened Seleucid influence in the region. This allowed Artaxias I, alongside Zariadres of Sophene, to found Hellenistic Armenian states, with Artaxias I uniting the Armenian Highlands and establishing the Artaxiad dynasty.

What strategic and economic advantages did the city of Artaxata offer as the capital of Armenia?

Artaxata, founded by Artaxias I, was strategically located at the confluence of the Araxes and Metsamor rivers. Its position on the Silk Road facilitated trade between the Greek world, Bactria, India, and the Black Sea, contributing to Armenia's economic prosperity and making it a significant center of commerce.

What apocryphal story connects the Carthaginian general Hannibal to the city of Artaxata?

According to ancient historians like Strabo and Plutarch, Hannibal found refuge at the court of Artaxias I. They recount an apocryphal tale suggesting Hannibal planned and supervised the construction of Artaxata, leveraging his military and engineering expertise.

What period marked the zenith of the Kingdom of Armenia's power, and what territorial extent did it achieve?

The zenith of the Kingdom of Armenia's power occurred under Tigranes the Great, from 83 to 69 BC. During this period, Armenia expanded significantly, incorporating parts of the Caucasus, southeastern Turkey, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon, effectively ending the Seleucid Empire and raising Armenia into a powerful empire that rivaled Rome.

Describe the complex relationship between the Kingdom of Armenia and the Roman Republic, particularly concerning the Artaxiad dynasty.

Armenia became a Roman client kingdom in 66 BC after Pompey's victory over Mithridates VI. While Rome exerted significant influence, installing and deposing kings, Armenia often navigated a delicate balance between Rome and its rival, Parthia. The Artaxiad kings, though clients of Rome, were eventually overthrown in 12 AD, possibly due to their ties with Parthia.

What event solidified Armenia's status as a Roman client kingdom in 66 BC?

Armenia's status as a Roman client kingdom was solidified in 66 BC following Pompey's victory over Mithridates VI of Pontus at the Battle of the Lycus. This victory brought Armenia firmly into the Roman sphere of influence.

How did Roman involvement in Armenian succession disputes shape the kingdom's political landscape in the 1st century AD?

Throughout the 1st century AD, Armenia frequently became a focal point of contention between Rome and Parthia. Both empires supported rival claimants to the Armenian throne, leading to periods of instability, foreign intervention, and shifting allegiances, such as the installation of Tigranes VI by Roman support and later Tiridates I crowned by Nero.

What was the outcome of the Roman-Parthian conflicts over Armenia in the 1st century AD, culminating in the Treaty of Rhandeia?

The Roman-Parthian conflicts over Armenia in the 1st century AD concluded with the Treaty of Rhandeia in 63 AD. This treaty established that members of the Parthian Arsacid dynasty would rule Armenia as client kings of Rome, creating a delicate balance of power between the two empires.

How did the Arsacid dynasty come to rule Armenia, and what was their relationship with the Parthian Empire?

The Arsacid dynasty was founded in Armenia when Tiridates I, a member of the Parthian Arsacid dynasty, was proclaimed King of Armenia in 52 AD. While ruling as client kings of Rome, their lineage maintained strong ties to the Parthian Empire, often leading to complex political maneuvering between the two major powers.

What pivotal religious transformation occurred in Armenia around 301 AD, and what is its historical significance?

Around 301 AD, King Tiridates III proclaimed Christianity as the state religion of Armenia, largely due to the influence of Gregory the Illuminator. This event holds immense historical significance as Armenia became the first state in history to officially adopt Christianity, predating the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great's conversion.

During which emperor's reign did Armenia temporarily become a province of the Roman Empire?

Armenia briefly became a province of the Roman Empire from 114 to 118 AD under Emperor Trajan. This period represented a direct Roman administration rather than rule through a client king.

What was the composition and estimated strength of the Armenian army during its peak under Tigranes the Great?

The Armenian army reached its peak under Tigranes the Great, reportedly comprising 120,000 infantrymen and 12,000 cavalrymen, including heavy cavalry and mounted archers. Some accounts suggest a total force of 500,000, including camp followers, highlighting its immense scale, though these numbers might be exaggerated.

What was the role and description of the Armenian cavalry, known as Ayrudzi?

The Ayrudzi, meaning 'horsemen,' formed a significant part of the Armenian army, particularly the elite cavalry. They were noted for their horses and armor, and served roles in guarding the king and lords during peace, and patrolling borders. During wartime, their numbers could swell considerably, and they were crucial to Armenia's military strength.

What was the purpose and notable involvement of the Roman Legio I Armeniaca?

The Legio I Armeniaca, or Armenian First Legion, was a late-period Roman legion likely formed in the 2nd or 3rd century AD to protect Armenia within the Roman Empire. It notably participated in Emperor Julian the Apostate's Persian campaign in 363 AD.

When is the Legio II Armeniaca believed to have been created, and what was its role?

The Legio II Armeniaca is thought to have been created around the end of the 3rd or beginning of the 4th century AD. It served as part of the Roman imperial legions, with a permanent camp in northern provinces of the Orient, including Satala, and participated in campaigns such as the defense of Bezabde.

Who were the principal deities worshipped in pre-Christian Armenia, and what aspects of life did they govern?

Key deities in the pre-Christian Armenian pantheon included Aramazd (head of the pantheon, associated with Zeus), Anahit (goddess of fertility and birth, identified with Artemis/Aphrodite), Vahagn (storm god and dragon slayer), and Mihr (god of the sun and light). Other deities like Astghik (fertility goddess) and Tir (god of wisdom) also played significant roles.

What is the traditional date for Armenia's adoption of Christianity as a state religion, and what made this event significant?

Armenia traditionally adopted Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD under King Tiridates III. This made Armenia the first nation in history to officially embrace Christianity, distinguishing it from the Zoroastrian and Mazdaen influences of neighboring empires like Parthia and Persia.

Which historian played a crucial role in preserving knowledge of pre-Christian Armenian literature?

Movses Khorenatsi, a historian from the 5th century, is credited with preserving much of the pre-Christian Armenian literature, including pagan songs and myths. His work provides valuable insights into the cultural and religious heritage of ancient Armenia.

What ancient Armenian song, preserved by Movses Khorenatsi, describes the birth of Vahagn?

Movses Khorenatsi preserved a pagan Armenian song detailing the birth of Vahagn, the storm god. The song describes a cosmic struggle involving heaven, earth, and the sea, from which Vahagn emerges as a fiery youth with eyes like suns.

What writing systems were utilized in Armenia prior to the development of the Armenian alphabet?

Before the creation of their own alphabet, Armenians used the Aramaic and Greek alphabets. The Greek alphabet, in particular, had a significant influence on the development of the Armenian script.

What was the primary motivation behind the creation of the Armenian alphabet by Mesrop Mashtots and Isaac of Armenia?

The Armenian alphabet was created by Mesrop Mashtots and Isaac of Armenia around AD 405 primarily to facilitate the translation of the Bible into the Armenian language. This initiative was crucial for solidifying Christian identity and fostering a distinct Armenian literary tradition.

What is the traditional first sentence written in the Armenian alphabet, attributed to Mesrop Mashtots?

The traditional first sentence written in the Armenian alphabet, attributed to Mesrop Mashtots, is a translation from Solomon's Book of Proverbs: 'To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding.'

How did the capitals of the Kingdom of Greater Armenia change over its history, and what were their key characteristics?

The capitals of Greater Armenia shifted over time, reflecting dynastic changes and strategic considerations. Armavir and Yervandashat were early capitals, followed by Artaxata, founded by Artaxias I for its strategic location on trade routes. Tigranakert was established by Tigranes the Great as a more central capital for his expanding empire. Vagharshapat became a significant religious center after Armenia's Christianization, and Dvin served as a key residence for later kings and governors.

What were the major geopolitical neighbors and influences on the Kingdom of Armenia?

The Kingdom of Armenia was situated between major powers, bordering Caucasian Albania to the east, Iberia to the north, the Roman Empire to the west, and Parthia (later the Sasanian Empire) to the south. These empires significantly influenced Armenia's political alliances, military conflicts, and cultural development.

Following the dissolution of the Seleucid Empire, how was the Armenian territory divided?

After the weakening of the Seleucid Empire, the Armenian territory was divided into several entities, including Lesser Armenia (associated with the Kingdom of Pontus), the main Kingdom of Armenia (Armenia Major), and the Kingdom of Sophene. These divisions were later consolidated or altered by subsequent rulers and empires.

Which ruler reunited several regions of Armenia and defeated the Iberians?

Artaxias I, founder of the Artaxiad dynasty, campaigned extensively to reunite territories that had been lost due to the weakened state of the Seleucid Empire. He notably campaigned in the north, defeating the Iberians and reuniting Gugark, and also secured regions to the east, west, and south.

Which ruler completed the reunification of regions like Lesser Armenia, Corduene, and Sophene?

Tigranes the Great, grandson of Artaxias I, completed the reunification of several key regions, including Lesser Armenia, Corduene, and Sophene, which his grandfather had been unable to fully incorporate.

What geographical scope did the Armenian Empire under Tigranes the Great encompass?

At its peak, the Armenian Empire under Tigranes the Great extended beyond the Armenian Highlands to include territories such as Caucasian Iberia, Caucasian Albania, Cappadocia, Cilicia, Armenian Mesopotamia, Osroene, Adiabene, Syria, Assyria, Commagene, Sophene, Judea, and Atropatene. Parthia and several Arab tribes were also vassals.

What were the traditionally recognized provinces that constituted Greater Armenia?

Greater Armenia was traditionally divided into 15 provinces, although these did not all exist simultaneously. These provinces included Upper Armenia, Sophene, Aghdznik, Turuberan, Corduene, Moxoene, Nor Shirakan, Vaspurakan, Syunik, Artsakh, Paytakaran, Utik, Gugark, Tayk, and Ayrarat.

Kingdom Of Armenia Antiquity Wiki: The Armenian Ascendancy: A Chronicle of Ancient Kingdoms

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Kingdom Overview

Timeline

The Kingdom of Greater Armenia, also known as Armenia Major, existed from 331 BC to 428 AD. Its history is marked by three successive royal dynasties: the Orontid, Artaxiad, and Arsacid.

Geopolitical Context

Situated in the Ancient Near East, Armenia served as a crucial buffer state and a frequent battleground between the major empires of Rome and Parthia (later succeeded by the Sasanian Empire).

Dynastic Succession

Originating from the Achaemenid Satrapy of Armenia, it transitioned into a Hellenistic kingdom under the Seleucid Empire, eventually flourishing under the Artaxiads and later the Arsacids, who established Christianity as the state religion.

The Ruling Dynasties

Orontid Dynasty (331–200 BC)

Emerging from the Achaemenid Satrapy of Armenia, the Orontids declared independence following Alexander the Great's conquests. They ruled as satraps and later kings, navigating the complex political landscape of the Hellenistic successor states.

Artaxiad Dynasty (189 BC – 12 AD)

Founded by Artaxias I, this dynasty marked a period of significant expansion and cultural development. Under Tigranes the Great, Armenia reached its zenith, becoming a vast empire that challenged Roman dominance in the East.

Arsacid Dynasty (52–428 AD)

Established by Tiridates I, a member of the Parthian Arsacid royal family, this dynasty presided over Armenia's conversion to Christianity, making it the first state to officially adopt the religion. This period was characterized by constant struggle for influence between Rome and Persia.

Faith and Transformation

Pre-Christian Pantheon

Prior to its Christianization, Armenia adhered to a rich pantheon of deities, many with cognates in Iranian and Semitic traditions. Key figures included Aramazd (head of the pantheon, akin to Zeus), Anahit (goddess of fertility, akin to Artemis/Aphrodite), and Vahagn (storm god, akin to Heracles).

Aramazd: Supreme deity, father of gods.
Anahit: Goddess of fertility, wisdom, and water.
Vahagn: God of thunder, war, and heroism.
Astghik: Goddess of love and beauty.
Mihr: God of the sun and light.
Tir: God of wisdom and prophecy.

Embrace of Christianity

In a pivotal moment for its cultural identity, Armenia officially adopted Christianity as its state religion around 301 AD, under King Tiridates III and the guidance of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. This predated the Roman Empire's official acceptance of Christianity.

Zoroastrian Influence

During the earlier periods, particularly under the Orontid and early Arsacid rulers, Zoroastrianism held significant sway. Many Armenian deities and practices show clear connections to ancient Persian religious traditions, reflecting the kingdom's geopolitical ties.

Military Might

Ayrudzi Cavalry

The elite Armenian cavalry, known as Ayrudzi ("horsemen"), formed the core of the royal army. Renowned for their skill and equipment, they served as heavy cavalry and mounted archers, playing a crucial role in battles and border defense.

Roman Legions

The Kingdom of Armenia also hosted Roman legions, such as Legio I Armeniaca and Legio II Armeniaca. These units were stationed in the region, contributing to its defense and reflecting the complex military alliances and dependencies with the Roman Empire.

Tigranes' Imperial Army

Under Tigranes the Great, the Armenian army reached unprecedented scale. Contemporary accounts describe vast numbers of infantry, cavalry, and support personnel, capable of projecting power across the Near East and challenging established empires.

Cultural Heritage

Language and Script

While Aramaic and Greek were used for administration and courtly matters, Armenian was the vernacular language. The creation of the Armenian alphabet by Mesrop Mashtots in 405 AD was a monumental achievement, fostering a distinct literary tradition.

Architectural Legacy

The kingdom's capitals, such as Artaxata and Tigranocerta, were centers of Hellenistic influence, featuring impressive fortifications, temples, and public structures like amphitheaters, reflecting a sophisticated urban culture.

Early Literature

Although much pre-Christian literature is lost, surviving fragments, notably pagan Armenian songs like the myth of Vahagn's birth, offer glimpses into the kingdom's early oral traditions and mythological narratives.

Seats of Power

Armavir

Founded in 331 BC, Armavir served as the initial capital under the Orontid dynasty. It was strategically located and became a significant center before its eventual decline.

Artaxata

Established by Artaxias I in 185 BC, Artaxata was a major Hellenistic city, strategically positioned on trade routes. It flourished as a capital and cultural hub, reportedly influenced by Hannibal.

Tigranocerta

Founded by Tigranes the Great in the 1st century BC, this magnificent capital was built to reflect the empire's vast reach, boasting impressive architecture and a diverse population.

Vagharshapat

Later known as Ejmiatsin, Vagharshapat became a significant religious and political center, particularly after Armenia's adoption of Christianity. It served as the capital during the early Arsacid period.

Dvin

Established in 335 AD, Dvin rose to prominence as the final capital of the Arsacid Kingdom. It was a major administrative and economic center, reflecting influences from both Persian and later Byzantine rule.

Territorial Divisions

Traditional Provinces

Greater Armenia was traditionally divided into fifteen provinces, though these administrative boundaries evolved over time. These regions formed the core territories of the kingdom.

Upper Armenia
Sophene
Aghdznik
Turuberan
Corduene
Moxoene
Nor Shirakan
Vaspurakan
Syunik
Artsakh
Paytakaran
Utik
Gugark
Tayk
Ayrarat

Imperial Expansion

Under rulers like Tigranes the Great, the kingdom's territory expanded significantly, incorporating regions such as Cappadocia, Cilicia, Syria, Mesopotamia, and parts of Caucasian Albania and Iberia, creating a vast empire.

Key Information

Armenia Հայք, Hayk
331 BC – 428 AD
A coin of Tigranes the Great featuring the Armenian tiara.
Armenia at its greatest extent under Tigranes the Great, 69 BC.
Status	Satrapy, Kingdom, Empire, Province
Capital	Armavir (331–210 BC) Yervandashat (210–176 BC) Artaxata (176–77 BC; 69–120 AD) Tigranocerta (77 BC – 69 AD) Vagharshapat (120–330) Dvin (336–428)
Common languages	Armenian (written c. 405 AD) Court languages: Greek, Aramaic, Iranian (Parthian and Middle Persian)
Religion	Zoroastrianism (until c. 301 AD) Christianity (Armenian Church; after c. 301 AD)
Government	Monarchy
Notable Kings
331–317 BC	Orontes III
189–160 BC	Artaxias I
95–55 BC	Tigranes the Great
55–34 BC	Artavasdes II
52–58, 62–88	Tiridates I
298–330	Tiridates III
422–428	Artaxias IV
Historical era
Antiquity, Hellenistic period
Area
c. 70 BC	900,000 km² (350,000 sq mi)
c. 300 AD	311,000 km² (120,000 sq mi)
Population
c. 70 BC	10,000,000
c. 300 AD	4,000,000
Currency	Talent
Preceded by: Satrapy of Armenia Succeeded by: Byzantine Armenia, Persian Armenia

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References

Hakobyan, Melik-Bakhshyan & Barseghyan 1986, pp. 180â181.

Hakobyan, Melik-Bakhshyan & Barseghyan 1986, p. 506.

Hakobyan, Melik-Bakhshyan & Barseghyan 1986, pp. 239â240.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Kingdom of Armenia (antiquity) Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research or consultation. Always refer to primary sources and academic scholarship for definitive historical understanding.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Armenian Ascendancy

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Kingdom Overview 🏛️

⏳ Timeline

🌍 Geopolitical Context

👑 Dynastic Succession

The Ruling Dynasties 👑

📜 Orontid Dynasty (331–200 BC)

🌟 Artaxiad Dynasty (189 BC – 12 AD)

🛡️ Arsacid Dynasty (52–428 AD)

Faith and Transformation ✨

🔥 Pre-Christian Pantheon

✝️ Embrace of Christianity

✡️ Zoroastrian Influence

Military Might ⚔️

🐎 Ayrudzi Cavalry

🛡️ Roman Legions

🐘 Tigranes' Imperial Army

Cultural Heritage 📜

🗣️ Language and Script

🏛️ Architectural Legacy

🎶 Early Literature

Seats of Power 📍

🏺 Armavir

⛰️ Artaxata

⭐ Tigranocerta

⛪ Vagharshapat

🕌 Dvin

Territorial Divisions 🗺️

📜 Traditional Provinces

🌐 Imperial Expansion

Key Information ℹ️

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Kingdom Overview

Timeline

Geopolitical Context

Dynastic Succession

The Ruling Dynasties

Orontid Dynasty (331–200 BC)

Artaxiad Dynasty (189 BC – 12 AD)

Arsacid Dynasty (52–428 AD)

Faith and Transformation

Pre-Christian Pantheon

Embrace of Christianity

Zoroastrian Influence

Military Might

Ayrudzi Cavalry

Roman Legions

Tigranes' Imperial Army

Cultural Heritage

Language and Script

Architectural Legacy

Early Literature

Seats of Power

Armavir

Artaxata

Tigranocerta

Vagharshapat

Dvin

Territorial Divisions

Traditional Provinces

Imperial Expansion

Key Information

Teacher's Corner

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References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice