Armenia, fate placed it at the point where the European and Middle Eastern continental plates collide, with a resulting mix in fortunes. Geography has brought the natural beauty of the Caucasus - majestic mountain ranges, snowy peaks, alpine lakes and forests. History, however, has seen Armenia suffer at the hands of conquering armies passing through - Roman, Persian, Arab, Ottoman Turk and Russian. These factors define the Armenians, a nation of artists, merchants, poets and stonemasons, who are fiercely proud of their language, culture and homeland.

Best time to visit

March to June - or the 10th century, the golden age of Armenian literature and art.

Essential experiences

Photographing the domes and cupolas of the national treasury in Echmiadzin; enjoying cosmopolitan Yerevan's choice of opera, concerts, museums and dining; visiting the reconstructed temple of Helios, Roman god of the sun; imagining life on the ancient Silk Road at Selium Caravanserai; travelling to dramatic Tatev Monastery rising high above the Vorotan Canyon.

In a few words, Armenia is

Solitary churches on rocky peaks, intricate stonemasonry, medieval manuscripts, bracing breezes from snow-capped mountains, rich vestments on bearded priests, vital people said to have their minds in the West but their hearts in the East.

Did you know?

It is customary in Armenia to toast before, during and after every meal.