Mount Ararat: Armenia's Sacred Mountain and National Symbol

Mount Ararat, known as Masis in Armenian, stands as perhaps the most powerful symbol of Armenian national identity. Though located in modern-day Turkey since 1921, this majestic peak remains central to Armenian consciousness, appearing on the country's coat of arms and inspiring countless works of art, literature, and music. ## Biblical Significance According to the Book of Genesis, Mount Ararat is where Noah's Ark came to rest after the Great Flood. This biblical connection has made the mountain sacred not only to Armenians but to Jews, Christians, and Muslims worldwide. For Armenians, who were among the first peoples to adopt Christianity, this association holds particular significance. ## Historical Connection Armenians have lived in the shadow of Ararat for millennia. The Urartian Kingdom, an ancient Armenian predecessor state, established its capital at the foot of the mountain around 860 BCE. The name "Ararat" itself derives from "Urartu," connecting modern Armenians to their ancient roots. ## A Mountain of Two Peaks Ararat actually consists of two peaks: Greater Ararat (Masis) at 5,137 meters and Lesser Ararat (Sis) at 3,896 meters. According to Armenian folklore, the two peaks represent a brother and sister who survived the flood. The snow-capped summit of Greater Ararat is visible from Yerevan on clear days, serving as a constant reminder of what many Armenians call their "lost homeland." ## Cultural Impact The mountain has inspired generations of Armenian artists. Painter Martiros Saryan frequently depicted Ararat in his works, using vibrant colors to capture the mountain's changing moods. The mountain features prominently in Armenian poetry, with writers like Hovhannes Shiraz dedicating entire collections to its majesty. ## Symbol of Resilience After the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and the subsequent loss of Western Armenia, Mount Ararat became a symbol of displacement and longing. Yet it also represents Armenian resilience—the ability to maintain cultural identity despite territorial loss. The mountain's image on Armenia's coat of arms, adopted in 1992, affirms its central place in national identity. ## Viewing Ararat Today Visitors to Armenia can best view Mount Ararat from the Khor Virap monastery, located near the Turkish border. On clear days, the mountain appears to float above the plain, its snow-capped peak a stunning reminder of Armenia's ancient heritage and enduring spirit.