Khosrov State Reserve, Nature reserve near Garni, Armenia
Khosrov State Reserve is a nature reserve in Ararat Province, Armenia, covering mountainous terrain with juniper and oak forests. The elevations range from 700 to 2,800 meters (2,300 to 9,200 feet), allowing for different climate zones and plant communities.
King Khosrov III founded the protected area between 334 and 338 as a royal hunting ground. This early designation makes it one of the oldest nature reserves in the world.
The name honors King Khosrov III, who created a royal hunting park here in the fourth century. Visitors today encounter old monastery compounds and stone crosses scattered along the mountain trails, speaking to the long religious tradition in this area.
Entry requires a permit from the Armenian Ministry of Nature Protection, and visitors must follow strict environmental rules. Sturdy footwear and enough water are essential because of the mountainous terrain and altitude differences.
Over 1,800 plant species grow here, representing about half of all flora in Armenia. This diversity comes from the wide elevation range and varied soils, which shelter many rare species.
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