Sisian, situated in the captivating Syunik region of Armenia, stands out as a city of remarkable beauty. Nestled in the southeast, 220 km away from Yerevan, Sisian's roots as a settlement trace back to ancient times. The city finds itself embraced by the Zangezur mountains to the west and the Bargushat mountains to the south. Gracing the banks of the Vorotan River, Sisian rests at an elevation of 1600 m above sea level. The climate gifts the region with long, snowy winters and brief, mild summers. Gazing from the north is the imposing Mount Ukhtasar (3563 m), while 13 km to the east stands Mount Ishkhanasar (3552 m).
In the annals of history, Sisian has been known as both Sisakan and Sisavan during the Middle Ages. Evidences of its rich heritage date back to the Paleolithic and Bronze Ages. Notably, the Ukhtasar petroglyphs, some of the world's oldest, dating back to 1000 BC, grace the landscape north of Sisian. Spanning from the 2nd to the 12th millennium, these petroglyphs stand as a testament to ancient artistry.
A crowning jewel within Sisian is the Zorats Karer (Karahunj) megalithic complex, affectionately referred to as the ``pearl`` of the city. Perched at an elevation of 1770 meters above sea level on the left bank of the Dar River, this complex hails from the 3rd millennium BC. Once an esteemed observatory and sacred site, Zorats Karer is often likened to the Armenian Stonehenge. A circle formed by 220 stones, each up to 2 meters in length, graces the site, complete with small holes etched into the upper part. This ancient treasure is surrounded by numerous castles and monuments, each weaving a tapestry of history.
Among these landmarks is the Sisavan Monastery, also known as the St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, paying homage to St. Hovhannes (670-689). A cornerstone of the city's history, the monastery stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the region. Standing 6 km from Sisian, the awe-inspiring Shaki waterfall, Armenia's tallest, cascades in splendor, earning it the title of the seventh wonder of the Syunik region, as affectionately dubbed by the locals.