Among the many symbols of Armenia, a special place is occupied by the apricot – a fruit that is called the gold of the Armenian land . It is not just a favorite delicacy, but also a part of culture, history, agriculture and even national identity. Apricots in Armenia are valued for their unique taste, aroma, sunny color and nutritional properties.

Let's figure out why apricot is considered the gold of Armenia , what varieties are grown here, what is made from it and what significance it has for the country.

Apricot is not just a product, it is a real journey into the taste, traditions and culture of Armenia . And the travel agency Soul of Armenia offers a unique opportunity to see, taste and feel for yourself how this "gold" is born – from the garden to the table.

History and origin

It is believed that the birthplace of the apricot is Armenia. This is confirmed by the Latin name of the fruit – Prunus armeniaca, which literally translates as "Armenian plum". More than 3,000 years ago, apricot trees were grown in Armenia, and archaeologists have found its pits in ancient Urartian settlements.
Historical chronicles, ancient authors and Armenian annals repeatedly mention the apricot as a symbol of fertility, sun and wealth. In ancient times, it was used not only for food, but also for ritual purposes.

Where and how apricot grows in Armenia

Apricot trees thrive in the favorable climate of the Armenian Highlands. The most famous growing regions are:
• Ararat Valley – the main "apricot region" of the country. This is where the best varieties are created.
• Armavir, Vayots Dzor, Aragatsotn – also famous for their orchards.
• Gegharkunik and Tavush – northern and eastern regions where late-ripening varieties are grown.
Thanks to the sunny climate, fertile volcanic soil and clean water, apricots in Armenia acquire a special taste: they are honey-sweet, rich, with a subtle sourness and a distinct aroma.

Variety of varieties

There are over 40 varieties of apricot grown in Armenia. Here are some of the most popular:
• Shalah – the most famous and exported variety, large, sweet, aromatic.
• Khosrovshahi – an early variety, dense, excellent for drying.
• Yerevani – has a bright orange skin and juicy pulp.
• Sateni – a late-ripening variety from highland regions.
Each region is proud of its variety in its own way, and apricots differ not only in color and size, but also in purpose: some are better eaten fresh, others – dried, cooked into jam or made into pastille.

What is made from apricot in Armenia

Armenians have learned to make the most of the apricot's potential, turning it not only into a treat, but also into a value-added product.
Apricot products:
• Churchkhela and apricot pastille
• Dried apricots (dried apricots) – a natural delicacy, often without added sugar
• Jams, preserves, marmalade
• Apricot seed oil – used in cosmetics and medicine
• Apricot juice and nectar
• Apricot vodka (arakh) and liqueurs – soft, aromatic, homemade and factory-made
• Apricot vinegar – a healthy dietary product

Apricot in culture and holidays

The apricot is so important to Armenians that it has become an unofficial national symbol. Its color is used on the Armenian flag (orange and gold), and the fruit itself inspires musicians, artists, and artisans.
Every summer, when the apricot ripens, the country hosts themed holidays and festivals:
Duduk – an instrument made from apricot wood
The traditional Armenian musical instrument, the duduk, is made exclusively from dried apricot wood. Its soft and warm sound is considered the embodiment of the Armenian soul.

Export and international recognition

Apricot is an important export crop of Armenia. It is supplied
to: • Russia and the EAEU countries
• the Middle East
• Europe (especially in the form of dried fruits and jams)
Armenian apricot is valued for its environmental friendliness, naturalness and unique taste. Farmers are increasingly switching to organic cultivation, which further increases interest from foreign markets.

Interesting facts:

• Armenian varieties of apricot are considered to be among the sweetest in the world.
• Trees live up to 100 years and begin to bear fruit in the 3rd or 4th year.
• The sound of the duduk, made from apricot wood, is included in the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List.
• Apricot kernels are used in cooking and medicine: the oil is rich in vitamins A and E.

Want to try an apricot straight from the tree?
On our summer tours you will visit real apricot orchards, learn how to grow "shalakh", try fresh and dried apricots, as well as homemade jams and liqueurs!

Apricot is not just a fruit , but a whole philosophy, a part of the soul of Armenia. It accompanies Armenians from childhood: from grandma's jam to festive toasts with apricot vodka. It is both taste and aroma, and memories of summer, and pride for one's land. It is not for nothing that it is called the gold of Armenia – for its color, for its value and for the warmth it brings to everyone who tries it.