Ararat region
Territory - 2096sq. km
Population - 305 thousands
Structure - 97 communes, 98 rural settlements
Major towns - Ararat, Artashat, Masis, Vedi. The center of the region is Artashat.

The region is situated in the western part of the Republic of Armenia.
The region is famous for its rich reserves of marble, granite, different kinds of clay, limestone and mineral waters. The territory of the region embraces the Khosrov Forest- the state forest reserve.
It is a region of industry and agriculture.
The climate is quite temperate.
The large vineyards, apricots are very typical of this region. Dating back to Noah times the fantasting apricot of Ararat field was famous as an “Armenian fruit”. Over centuries the vineyards have occupied the fertile soil of this country. Very stubborn and staunch vine, though demands due kindness and everlasting care…In return it presents creators with a divine and sweet fruit.
     
Khor Virap is a place of pilgrimage for Armenians all over the world. According to history annals, Armenian pagan king Trdat imprisoned Saint Gregory the Illuminator in a cave which since that time has become known as Khor Virap. He was the first Patriarch of all Armenians. From here one can enjoy the fantastic view of mount Ararat(where  Noah’s ark landed according to the bible),not very far from the Arax river .Khor Virap is the closest point to mount Ararat ,it is also the most convenient place for observing the biblical mount and taking pictures of it.