In addition, the Urartu kingdom was strategically located to do business with other rich neighbors in the region. It was situated along a trading route that connected Mediterranean and Asian civilizations. Mountains loomed on both the northern and southern borders of the territory, providing natural fortification. However, the eastern and western ends of the fort remained exposed to attack.
Who was in command of Urartu, though? In the end, the society was ruled by a monarchy, which delegated power to a tiny group of advisers. Officials who cared about places of worship and handled construction projects like roadbuilding sat beneath these top experts.