Invaluable insights into the history of Armenia during the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC are provided by the ancient sources of Mesopotamia, particularly the Sumerian and Akkadian written monuments. These records, created by the Sumerians, one of the earliest civilizations in the world, offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the Armenian Highlands during this period.
Sumerian Connection to the Armenian Highlands
The Sumerians, creators of the first cuneiform script, initially inhabited northern Mesopotamia and the southern Armenian Highlands before migrating to Southern Mesopotamia. Despite their migration, they maintained contact with the highlands, which is why the earliest mentions of the Armenian Highlands are found in Sumerian records. Their invention of cuneiform, later adopted by the Akkadians and other civilizations of Western Asia, including the Kingdom of Van, became a cornerstone of communication and administration in the ancient world.
The Land of Aratta
Aratta is prominently mentioned in Sumerian primary sources as an early state formation located in the Armenian Highlands. References to Aratta date back to the 28th and 27th centuries BC. It is described as a highland country, accessible from Sumer via the river “Uruki,” which scholars identify with the Euphrates River. The mountainous region surrounding this river aligns with the Armenian Highlands, corroborating the geographical placement of Aratta.
The journey from Sumer to Aratta passed through notable regions, including Zamua, situated south of Lake Urmia (referred to as the “sea of the country of Zamua” in Assyrian sources). Tracing the route from Sumer to Zamua and onward leads directly to the Armenian Highlands. This connection is further reinforced by the worship of the god of wisdom and universal waters, Ai (or Ya), whose son, Hayk, was the patron god of Aratta.
Governance and Society
Aratta operated under a theocratic system, where both spiritual and secular power rested with the clergy. The king of Aratta also served as the high priest, demonstrating a governance structure deeply intertwined with religion. Decisions on significant matters were made by a council of elders convened by the high priest. The country’s economy was overseen by an official known as the “leader,” supported by tax collectors and managers, indicating a well-organized state apparatus.
Economy and Trade
Sumerian sources provide details of economic relations between Aratta and Sumer. Aratta exported metals, precious stones, and building materials, including stone, to Sumer, while importing grain and other agricultural products. Horses, rather than donkeys as in Sumer, were used for transportation and military purposes in Aratta. The introduction of horses facilitated significant advancements in their economy and military capabilities.
Military Strength and Urban Development
Aratta’s military strength is noted in Sumerian epics. Its capital, fortified with stone walls, successfully withstood a year-long siege by the Sumerians. Descriptions from the records state: “Arrows flew from the city like rain from clouds, stones from crossbows like raindrops flew from the walls of Aratta throughout the year with a loud whistle.” This resilience highlights Aratta’s strategic and military sophistication.
Cultural and Technological Achievements
Aratta’s cultural achievements were significant. It is noted for having its own script, evidenced by undeciphered hieroglyphic monuments dating back to the 3rd millennium BC. The country’s contributions to architecture are also remarkable; Sumerian records mention architects from Aratta sent to construct monumental buildings in Sumer. Furthermore, during the 26th-25th centuries BC, the Subarians, possibly originating from Aratta, are documented in Mesopotamia as skilled craftsmen, including scribes, bakers, blacksmiths, and gardeners.
Aratta flourished during a time when the Armenian Highlands were culturally unified, a period known in archaeological literature as the Early Bronze Age Armenian culture. This cultural unity underscores the advanced and interconnected society that Aratta represented in its era.
Conclusion
The Sumerian sources paint a vivid picture of Aratta as a significant early state with a complex governance system, thriving economy, and rich cultural heritage. Situated in the Armenian Highlands, Aratta’s contributions to the ancient world, from technological innovations to cultural exchanges, underscore its pivotal role in the history of the region. The legacy of Aratta continues to inspire a deeper understanding of the interconnected civilizations of the ancient Near East.
Artatsolum
Based on articles by Artak Movsisyan (10.04.1970 / 03.10.2020), Senior Researcher at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, Associate Professor at the Department of History of Yerevan State University, PhD in History.
