Razumlu

Razumlu is a small village located in the Kars Province of northeastern Turkey, near the border with Armenia. Situated in the historic region of Eastern Anatolia, the village lies within the Arpaçay District, approximately 100 kilometers east of the provincial capital, Kars. Razumlu is part of the broader Armenian-inhabited area that once thrived in the region before the early 20th century, though today it is predominantly populated by Turkish residents.

The village has a rich historical background tied to its Armenian heritage. Before the Armenian Genocide of 1915–1917, Razumlu was home to a significant Armenian Christian community, contributing to the cultural and economic life of the area. Many Armenian families lived in the village, engaging in agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship. Following the genocide and subsequent population exchanges, the Armenian population was largely displaced, and Turkish families from other regions gradually settled in the area.

Today, Razumlu is characterized by its rural landscape, with traditional stone houses and agricultural fields. The village economy primarily relies on farming, livestock, and small-scale trade. The region’s climate is continental, with cold winters and warm summers, influencing the types of crops grown, such as grains, vegetables, and fruits. The area also features scenic natural surroundings, including rolling hills and nearby rivers, which attract some visitors interested in local history and culture.

Culturally, Razumlu reflects the influences of both Turkish and Armenian traditions, though modern life is dominated by Turkish customs. The village has a small mosque and a community center, serving as focal points for social and religious activities. While Razumlu remains a quiet and unassuming settlement, its historical significance as part of the broader Armenian diaspora in Turkey continues to be recognized by scholars and historians studying the region’s demographic shifts.