The history of Armenia is a mosaic of interconnected regions, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Armenian heritage. Among these regions, Lesser Armenia, Komagene, Tsopk, and Cappadocia stand out for their historical significance and cultural legacy. Let’s delve into the fascinating stories of these ancient lands.
1. Lesser Armenia
- Located south of the Black Sea and encompassing the Euphrates River, Lesser Armenia was a vital part of the Armenian Kingdom in the 23rd century BC.
- The capital, Ani-Kamakh, and the port city of Trabzon (Trapezund) were significant urban centers. Trabzon’s name in Armenian translates to “gives rise to constructive life.”
- Other notable cities included Sebastia, meaning “city of love,” Ardass, “this is life directed to the Sun,” and Nikepolise, “it becomes a holy city.”
- After the Armenian Genocide in 1915, many Armenians from this region migrated to the eastern shores of the Black Sea, including Sukhumi (Abkhazia) and Sochi (Russia).
2. Komagene
- Situated west of Osroene (Edessa) and on the right side of the Euphrates River, Komagene’s capital was Samosat, originally named Sagm(os), meaning “sacred song” in Armenian.
- Samosat, like Edessa, housed large libraries, reflecting the region’s intellectual heritage.
- The kings of Komagene belonged to the Yervanduni dynasty of Armenia. Despite its cultural richness, Komagene was often occupied by Western powers, especially during the Roman and Byzantine periods.
3. Tsopk
- Known as Tsup (Tsoup) in ancient sources and later as Sophene, Tsopk was located north of Osroene and west of Taron, extending from Lake Van to the Euphrates River along the Aratsani River.
- Tsopk was home to major cities like Kharbert (Kar-Bert), meaning “Stone Castle,” and Carput, “place with a stone wall.”
- The kings of Tsopk, a junior branch of the Yervanduni dynasty, included notable figures such as Sammos (mid-10th century BC), Arsham (240-220 BC), and Xerxes (late 2nd century BC).
4. Cappadocia
- Located west of the Euphrates in Asia Minor, between Armenia Minor and Cilicia, Cappadocia was known for its fertile lands and strategic importance.
- The Armenian name for Cappadocia was Gammirq, meaning “fruit bringer.” The main city, Mayhak (or Mshak), translated to “source of strength and life,” was later renamed Caesarea, derived from the Armenian word “kes-ar,” meaning “demigod.”
- According to the historian Movses Khorenatsi, the kings of old Gammirk were from the Arram (Son of the Sun) Dynasty of Greater Armenia.
These regions, each with its unique history and cultural contributions, were integral parts of the united Armenian Kingdom. Their stories reflect the resilience and enduring legacy of the Armenian people, who have preserved their heritage through centuries of change and adversity. By exploring the histories of Lesser Armenia, Komagene, Tsopk, and Cappadocia, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich and multifaceted narrative of Armenia.
Artatsolum
Based on an excerpt from Paris Herouni’s book “Armenians and Ancient Armenia”
