THE FEATURES AND TERRITORIAL DIFFERENCES OF THE RA RURAL SETTLEMENT PATTERN

Abstract

Mountainous regions and countries are characterized by both diversity of rural settlement patterns and local complex types within relatively small areas and spatial variations in the characteristics, distribution, and physical appearance of individual settlements and settlement groups. In this regard, the Republic of Armenia is no exception and typical case. The article identifies the territorial differences, distinctive features, and characteristic patterns of the rural population, rural settlements, and the rural settlement system of the Republic of Armenia. A comprehensive geographical analysis of the territorial differences and key characteristics of rural settlement has been carried out by natural-economic Regions Ararat, Shirak, Gugark (Lori), Utik (Tavush), Sevan (Gegharkunik), Vayk, Zangezur (Syunik) and administrative provinces (Marzes). The revelation of the territorial differences and characteristic features of rural settlement pattern in the Republic of Armenia is important not only from a scientific and academic perspective but also for practical purposes. It provides a valuable basis for promoting the socio-economic development, governance and implementation of effective regional policies for the country's separate regions, provinces, communities, and rural settlements.