The social and economic upheavals that followed the earthquake of 1988 combined with the political collapse of the Soviet Union to create a catastrophic public health situation in Armenia.
Up to 97% of Armenians follow Christianity, which has existed in Armenia for over 1,700 years. Armenia has its own church, the Armenian Apostolic Church, which most Armenians follow. Christianity has a strong influence in the country, but there is a small presence of other religions too.
For ages, New Year in Armenia is celebrated on the 21st of March. New Year in Armenia also marks the beginning of spring and the birthday of the mythical God Vahangn. Armenian New Year is characterized by huge feasts, merriment and also to celebrate the sweet season of spring.