Tigranakert is an ancient Armenian city of Hellenistic times which is now located in the territory of Artsakh Republic. It was built on the initiative of Tigran the Great in the 1st century BC. In general, the Armenian king founded four cities named in his honor and included them in the Armenian Empire. Since 2010 archaeological excavations were carried out in Tigranakert city during which painted ceramics were found dating from different times – from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD, as well as early medieval glass, ancient seals and the clay disk with inscriptions in Armenian found in the basilica. Ceramic objects of the 9th-12th centuries also were among the artifacts. Tigranakert has great historical value.
The well-established transport infrastructure of Armenia allows to get to Tigranakert by a private car or with the help of various travel companies which offer regular excursions and tours to different sights of the country. Due to the geographical location of Tigranakert the trip will not seem long.
The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Tigranakert depends on the weather conditions.
The exact location of Tigranakert was discovered in 2005. The city is located near the mountain Vankasar and a spring called "Spring of the Kings". There were traces of another ancient place opposite to Tigranakert on the left bank of Khachenaget. Excavations in Tigranakert began in 2006. As a result, the citadel of the city, fences, the central part of the city and the early medieval basilica were found and investigated. The city is mostly built of white limestone.
Excavations in Tigranakert in 2010 were conducted in three main parts. The northern fence wall, built during the reign of Tigran the Great, was opened in the fortified area. Cave complexes were discovered during the second part of the excavations. And during the third part - the basilica was found, where an open hall adjoins to the south side of the church. Later, an antique large jug with a capacity of 600 liters with a snake image has been found. As a result of excavations, fragments of mosaic glass were found. Archaeologists also found a large collection of glazed ceramics, images of various plants and birds in Tigranakert.
MAYRABERD FORTRESS (ASKERAN)
28.6 km
STEPANAKERT CITY
43.4 km
GANDZASAR MONASTERY
56 km
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