Kotayk

Kotayk, also known as Kotayk Province (Kotayk Marz), is a province of Armenia in the central part of the country. The capital is Hrazdan. The province encompasses a varied landscape that ranges from the lower slopes of the Geghama mountains to river valleys and forested areas. The Hrazdan River crosses the region, and the climate is continental with warm summers and cold winters.

Historically, Kotayk has been part of various Armenian kingdoms and contains notable ancient and medieval sites. The province hosts the Garni Temple, a Greco-Roman style temple dating to the 1st century AD, and the Geghard Monastery, a medieval complex partly carved into rock. Together, Garni and Geghard form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area also contains the Tsaghkadzor resort town, known for winter sports and tourism.

Economy and administration: Kotayk is largely agricultural, with orchards, vineyards, and livestock. In urban centers, light industry and service sectors are present. The marz is subdivided into several urban and rural communities; its largest settlements after Hrazdan include towns such as Charentsavan and Abovyan, among others. Tourism is supported by natural scenery, ski facilities in Tsaghkadzor, and historical monuments.

Notable features: Protected areas, cultural institutions, and proximity to Yerevan make Kotayk a common destination for day trips and regional commerce.