The annals of history are studded with visionary leaders whose monumental achievements leave an indelible mark on their nation’s development. One such figure in Armenian history is Artashes, whose legacy includes uniting Armenian-speaking territories into a cohesive state and founding the capital city of Artashat. His story is not merely about territorial expansion but also about cultural unity and urban innovation, a legacy corroborated by ancient historians like Polybius and Strabo.
Unifying the Armenian-Speaking Territories
Artashes’ contemporaries, such as the Greek historian Polybius and the geographer Strabo, recognized his role in shaping Armenia. Polybius refers to him as “the Ruler of the greatest part of Armenia,” while Strabo notes that “Armenia has grown through the efforts of Artashes, and all are monolingual,” implying a unified Armenian-speaking state. This linguistic and cultural unity under Artashes’ rule was instrumental in the further development of Armenian statehood.
The Creation of a New Capital
A significant milestone in Artashes’ reign was the construction of a new capital. The ancient capital, Armavir, had become outdated, necessitating a new city that would reflect the emerging trends and ambitions of Greater Armenia. In 180 BC, Artashes embarked on the ambitious project of founding Artashat (Artaxata in Greek), with guidance from an extraordinary advisor—the Carthaginian commander Hannibal.
Hannibal: The Architect of Artashat
Having fled to the East after suffering defeat at the hands of Rome, Hannibal found refuge in the court of Artashes. Artashes welcomed him with great honors, effectively offering him political asylum. Fascinated by the vast construction projects underway in Armenia, Hannibal lent his expertise in urban planning and fortification to the creation of Artashat.
Hannibal’s Role and the Founding of the City
The Greek writer Plutarch recounts Hannibal’s involvement: after Antiochus’ defeat, Hannibal sought refuge with Artaxias the Armenian, offering valuable advice on urban development. He identified an ideal location for a new city and convinced Artaxias to build it, resulting in the creation of a large and beautiful city that bore the king’s name and became the capital of Armenia.
Strategic Location and Urban Design
Artashat was strategically located in the fertile Ararat Valley, at the confluence of the Araks and Metsamor rivers, approximately 10 kilometers southeast of modern Artashat. The name “Artashat” translates to “the joy of Artashes,” reflecting the king’s pride in his new capital. Under Hannibal’s guidance, the city was meticulously planned and constructed, earning the moniker “Armenian Carthage” due to its resemblance to Hannibal’s hometown.
Description of Artashat by Movses Khorenatsi
The 5th-century historian Movses Khorenatsi provides a vivid account of Artashat’s construction. Artashes chose a hill at the confluence of the Araks and Metsamor rivers to build his city. Utilizing the waters of the Araks to transport building materials, the city was rapidly constructed. Artashes also built a temple in Artashat, transferring statues of deities from Bagaran, further enriching the city’s cultural and religious significance.
Architectural and Defensive Features
Artashat was a marvel of ancient urban planning. Situated on ten hills and covering an area of 400-500 hectares, the city was surrounded by a fortress wall approximately 10 kilometers long. This wall was connected by narrow corridors between the hills, creating a formidable defense system. The city’s natural defenses included being bordered by rivers on three sides and a wide moat on the fourth, ensuring its security.
The Legacy of Artashat
For six centuries, Artashat thrived as the political, economic, and cultural center of Greater Armenia (Mets Hayk). Its strategic location at the crossroads of major trade routes from south to north and east to west further solidified its importance.
The founding of Artashat by Artashes, with Hannibal’s invaluable assistance, represents a pivotal chapter in Armenian history. It exemplifies the synthesis of military strategy, urban planning, and cultural integration. Artashat’s legacy as “Armenian Carthage” and its enduring prominence underscore the visionary leadership of Artashes and the remarkable collaboration between two great historical figures.
What is Artashat’s significance in Armenian culture?
Artashat holds a place of profound significance in Armenian culture for several reasons:
Historical Importance
As the capital of Greater Armenia for six centuries, Artashat was the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation. It served as a central hub where major trade routes intersected, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices. Its role as a capital city under the reign of Artashes and subsequent rulers contributed to the consolidation and expansion of Armenian statehood.
Architectural Marvel
Designed with the assistance of the Carthaginian commander Hannibal, Artashat was renowned for its strategic urban planning and fortifications. The city was built on ten hills, surrounded by a fortress wall connected by narrow corridors, providing a formidable defense system. The architectural layout, often referred to as “Armenian Carthage,” exemplified advanced urban planning and engineering of the time.
Cultural Legacy
Artashat was a cultural and religious center, home to temples and statues of deities transferred from other regions. The city housed the statue of Artemis, idols of ancestors, and the statue of Apollo, which symbolized the religious and cultural continuity of Armenian heritage. These religious and cultural artifacts played a significant role in the spiritual life of the Armenian people.
Symbol of Unity
Under Artashes’ rule, Artashat became a symbol of unity for all Armenian-speaking territories. The linguistic and cultural cohesion achieved during his reign laid the foundation for a unified Armenian identity, which has endured through the centuries. Artashat’s establishment marked a pivotal moment in the history of Armenian statehood, representing the unification and strengthening of the nation.
Archaeological and Historical Value
Today, the remnants of old Artashat, including traces of fortress walls and buildings, continue to be of great archaeological and historical value. These ruins provide insights into the city’s past and the architectural ingenuity of its builders. The site of old Artashat, located near the modern monastery complex of Khor Virap, remains a significant cultural and historical landmark.
Artashat’s significance in Armenian culture is multifaceted, encompassing its role as a political capital, an architectural marvel, a cultural and religious center, and a symbol of unity. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire pride and reverence among Armenians, reflecting the rich history and heritage of the Armenian people.
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