The Arteni Volcanic Complex (Armenia): A Volcanic Geoheritage Site for Geotourism

The Arteni volcanic complex (Armenia) represents a distinctive volcanic landscape characterized by well-preserved pyroclastic deposits, rhyolitic domes, extensive obsidian flows, and significant archaeological evidence. This study aims to evaluate the geoheritage value of the complex and to develop a scientifically grounded geotouristic trail model based on the targeted selection of representative sites. Field-based investigations were integrated with a simplified semi-quantitative assessment of selected sites and Geographic Information System (GIS)-supported spatial analysis, including topographic, viewshed, and accessibility analyses. The results allowed for the selection of nine representative sites, effectively representing the principal stages of volcanic evolution, including explosive eruptions, lava flow emplacement, and dome formation. Spatial analysis demonstrates that the selected sites enable the development of a coherent, accessible, and scientifically meaningful geotouristic route while balancing scientific representativeness with visitor accessibility and safety. In addition, the widespread occurrence of obsidian and associated archaeological artifacts highlights the combined geological and cultural significance of the area. The proposed approach provides a transferable framework for the development of geotourism in volcanic regions and contributes to geoheritage conservation, geoeducation, and sustainable regional development.