Ruins of Shamiram

In the surrounding area of Shamiram and Arutch villages (Aragatzotn district), there are historical-architectural monuments of the second half of the 2000B.C. and the beginning of the 1000 B.C. It includes the ruins if the old city, an artificial water reservoir, the remnants of residences, the group of tombs with megalith towers. The ruins are located on the cape between the two canyons. It stretches out approximately for about 10 hectarеs. From the side of the plain, the cape is divided by five walls which form three defense rows. The caves are also strengthened with the walls, made from rough large shaved tuff.

Preserved also are some remnants of the monumental constructions. At the edge of the cape there is a place, presumably used for worshipping. The city was destroyed approximately at the end of the 9th century or in the beginning of the 8th century B.C., because of numerous attacks. During the Hellenistic period the area was inhabited again. The dwellings were constructed at the edge of the cape, and the cemetery in the all remaining territory of the old city.

There is an old water reservoir that is still working, made with large tuff carts. Numerous tombs were discovered and excavated, around which are the carts with carvings on them, presenting horses, scenes of hunting, wild animals, and other such sceneries. Above some of the tombs were placed stone statues and phalluses. Inside the tombs iron and bronze weapons and jewelries were found. Separate group of tombs are located on the top of the canyon, where representatives of the high class were buried.

The excavations of Shamiram showed that in 10-9cc B.C. the iron culture was well developed in Armenia. It also shows the finalization of the society classes and the early development of city civilization.