Area and location of Aras Geopark
Aras Geopark with an area of 1670 square kilometers is located in East Azerbaijan province and its territory covers the entire area of Jolfa city. Due to the mountainous nature and the existence of different types of sedimentary and igneous rocks, diversity of tectonic structures and diversity of geological phenomena, this area has suitable geological tourist attractions.
In this region, irreplaceable geological phenomena such as the Permotria-Triassic border in the valley can be seen, which have international value and importance. In addition to geological attractions, there are historical-cultural attractions such as St. Stephen's Church, which have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to their antiquity, religious significance and unique architectural style, which are of added value. The location of the city of Julfa along the historic Silk Road will put this geopark in the chain of geoparks that are somehow connected to this road. The rich and ancient culture and special customs of the inhabitants of this geopark are also very attractive.
Aras border river has an important role in the formation of civilization and cities along the way and its geographical and climatic effects on the region are quite evident. The diversity of climate and vegetation in this region is very significant; While the valley of the Aras River is covered with subtropical trees, the lands of the western and middle regions are covered with steppes and in the foothills of the eastern mountains, dense and dense forests of Arasbaran can be seen. The diversity of animal life in this area is high; The presence of endangered animals such as black roosters, marals, Armenian rams and leopards has doubled the importance of protecting these species.