Erebuni, Armenia

Living in Erebuni requires grit and determination. The ancient Urartian fortress sits 1,017 metres above sea level, overlooking the Aras River Valley. With a population of 126,100, the city has endured numerous invasions over the centuries, and the bureaucracy is a persistent headache. However, the rich history and architectural grandeur of sites like the temple of Khaldi make Erebuni an intriguing choice for those seeking a cultural adventure far off the beaten path.