ABSTRACT
THE city of Arzinján stands in a plain beside a river which is the [Western] Euphrates: and the Euphrates [as is well known] is one or the rivers that had its rise in Paradise. The plain in which the city lies is at the back enclosed by a range of high mountains: and the summits of these now were covered with snow: but below in the valleys there was none. All round and about could be seen villages with their vineyards and plantations, the whole, plain being under cultivation for corn lands and vines. On every hand there were very beautiful gardens and orchards. The city itself however is not very large, it is encircled by a wall with towers. Arzinján was built by the Armenians and in the city wall was to be seen in many places carved in stone the sign of the Cross. All the houses of the town have flat terrace roofs, whereby the people can pass from one house to another by the roof as though along a street. The city is very populous, and there are to be seen here many fine thoroughfares and squares. Many official personages live here, of whom most are rich folk, and there are many opulent merchants. Fine mosques are to be seen here, and there are beautiful fountains for the supply of water. The inhabitants are for the most part Greeks and Armenians who are all Christians.
