The location and complexity of the nature are the key factors that influence the climate in the Armenian Highland. Isolated from the surrounding seas by mountain ranges, the climate in the majority of the Armenian Highland is dry (continental). Summers are torrid, while winters are cold. The penetration of cold air masses in the highland contributes to abundant downfalls in the majority of the territory. The bordering mountain ranges remain covered in snow throughout the entire cold season, and the mountain Masis is covered with an eternal layer of snow. Downfall is rare in the low-laying lands, therefore agriculture is impossible without artificial irrigation.
From ancient times, the population has implemented canals and ditches for artificial irrigation, the most prominent of which is the Menua Canal built in the 9th Century B.C., also known as Shamiram Canal or Shamiram Ditch.
According to climate conditions, the Armenian Highland can be divided into three zones. The low-laying zone (350-1000 m above sea level) is ideal for cultivating grapes, cotton, apricots, pomegranate, peaches, figs, rice, etc.
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