Azhdahak Mountain

Region

Gegharkunik

Entfernung von Jerewan

91.4 km

Typ

Berg

Mount Azhdahak is the highest peak in the Geghama Mountain Range, located in its central part. It is an extinct volcanic cone with a crater that is 50 meters deep and 500 meters in circumference, containing a lake formed by accumulated water, called Vishapalich (“Dragon Lake”). The mountain stands at 3,597 meters above sea level. For most of the year, it is snow-covered, and its slopes are barren. The name Azhdahak comes from Aži Dahāka, the evil dragon of Iranian mythology. “Aži” means viper, snake, or dragon, who was defeated by Trita/Traetaona, the god of thunder. On the way up Mount Azhdahak, one can see petroglyphs and vishapakar (dragon stones) depicting various animals such as fish, mythical dragon-beasts, and more.