The modern appearance of Ararat is 3.5 million years old

Ten million years ago, the landscape of the Armenian Highlands transformed dramatically with the arrival of an imposing volcano. This massive formation, soaring to roughly 3500 meters, was distinctive with its trapezoidal silhouette. The flat crown of this natural giant bore an uncanny resemblance to Kilimanjaro’s peak, although its lava composition held a unique signature.

Over countless millennia, the volcano persisted with remarkable vigor, repeatedly spewing voluminous magma and growing ever larger. Approximately five million years ago, a new conical peak emerged, marking a key evolution in its physical shape.

As the ages rolled on, a magnificent dome emerged above the cone, adding to the mountain’s awe-inspiring stature. This remarkable behemoth was not merely predestined to dominate the highlands as the highest peak but also to symbolize the spirit of Armenia. The familiar form of the Greater Ararat we know today crystallized about 3.5 million years ago.

Despite the volcano’s ancient heritage and long-standing familiarity to mankind, its exact altitude has been a matter of ongoing contention for centuries. In the year 1829, Professor F. Parrot from the University of Derpt, together with the Armenian writer H. Abovyan, proposed a measurement of 5280 meters.

This claim was later contested by Geographer H. Khodzko, who suggested a differing figure – 5156 meters. This measure continues to appear in numerous modern publications and maps. In a subsequent development, P. Guru declared the volcano’s height to be 5200 meters, while many maps from the first half of the 20th century marked it even higher at 5604 meters.

Finally, the debate regarding the volcano’s height found resolution. A 1952 expedition by French mountaineers provided what is now recognized as the most precise measurement – 5165 meters above sea level. Today, this figure is accepted as the definitive assessment of Greater Ararat’s magnificent scale.

Vigen Avetisyan