History and geography have always gone hand in hand, helping humanity comprehend its place in the world. One of the most prominent researchers to explore this connection is Ruben Galchian, a specialist in the history of Armenia, the Caucasus, geography, and cartography. His works offer a fresh perspective on the past, drawing upon unique historical documents, maps, and research.
Ruben Galchian was born in Tabriz into a family of refugees who survived the genocide. After receiving an education in Birmingham, he embarked on his journey into historical studies through cartography. His first major work, Historical Maps of Armenia, was published in 2004. Among his subsequent significant publications are Armenia in World Cartography and Azerbaijani Historical-Geographical Falsifications.
The second edition of this foundational work became a reality thanks to the initiative of Archbishop Ezras Nersisyan and the blessing of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians. The book is not merely a collection of ancient maps but also a scholarly exploration of the political, cultural, and geographical development of the region.
The pages of this edition feature maps sourced from museums and libraries worldwide. These maps are vital historical artifacts that illuminate Armenia’s centuries-long history and its role in international relations.
In the preface to the book, Galchian emphasizes that the maps were selected based on their historical and cartographic significance. He highlights that Armenia appears on world maps long before the emergence of nations like Turkey (14th century) and Azerbaijan (1918).
For instance, the earliest map mentioning Armenia dates back to the 6th century BCE and is a Babylonian clay tablet. This map places Armenia (Urartu) alongside Assyria and Babylon, underscoring its historical importance in the region.
Galchian’s book also delves into the political and cultural processes that unfolded in and around Armenia. The author draws attention to efforts to distort historical facts, particularly by Turkey and Azerbaijan. Through his work, he strives to distinguish reality from myth, relying on objective historical evidence.
The history of cartography presented in the book traces its roots to deep antiquity. Ancient maps on clay tablets, papyri, and carvings demonstrate that our ancestors’ cartographic and astronomical knowledge was far more advanced than previously assumed. Structures like Stonehenge, Zorats Karer, and the Metsamor Observatory attest to their study of the stars and use of celestial navigation, leading to the creation of remarkable geographic and cosmic systems.
The works of Ruben Galchian, including Armenia in World Cartography, underscore the importance of preserving and studying historical evidence. They help restore the true face of history and counter attempts to distort it.
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