Volcanic ash preserves critical information on eruption dynamics, magma evolution, and fragmentation processes, yet its small size and fragile structure pose challenges for conventional analytical methods. Advances in SEM-based automated mineralogy combined with X-ray mapping (GXMAP) provide high-resolution characterization of ash textures, particle morphology, and mineral assemblages, offering a more robust basis for interpreting pyroclastic deposits. This study applies an integrated GXMAP workflow alongside sieve-based granulometry to the Early Pleistocene trachyandesite to rhyolitic pyroclastic sequences at the Kurtan quarry (Kechut Volcanic Province, Armenia), a key regional stratigraphic marker associated with early human occupation. GXMAP-based granulometry minimizes preparation-induced fragmentation and yields more consistent and reliable grain-size and morphological data for fine ash deposits than dry sieving. The three stratigraphic units at Kurtan display distinct combinations of grain size, mineral assemblages, and particle morphologies, reflecting contrasting magma evolution, fragmentation conditions, and depositional regimes. Shape-parameter fields derived from BSE images reveal clear differences between the highly irregular, concave compound fragments dominating TP-13-1 and the smoother, more compact particles characteristic of TP-13-2 and TP-13-3. Most particles fall within the ductile domain of established shape-morphology diagrams, indicating that ductile deformation of bubble walls was a major component of fragmentation, accompanied by heterogeneous brittle breakage. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the combined SEM-based automated mineralogy and GXMAP approach for resolving primary fragmentation, sorting characteristics, and depositional processes in fragile pyroclastic deposits. The Kurtan sequence provides new constraints on explosive volcanism in the Lesser Caucasus Mts. region. At the same time, the methodological framework offers broad applicability to tephra studies worldwide and underscores the potential of imaging-based techniques in volcanology.

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.

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 viewpoints. Field-based investigations were integrated with semi-quantitative viewpoint assessment and GIS-supported spatial analysis, including morphometric, viewshed, and accessibility analyses. The results allowed the identification of key viewpoints (VP1–VP9), effectively representing the principal stages of volcanic evolution, including explosive eruptions, lava flow emplacement, and dome formation. Spatial analysis demonstrates that the selected view-points 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 scientific geotourism in volcanic regions and contributes to geoheritage conservation, geoeducation, and sustainable regional development.

We perform Rayleigh wave ambient noise tomography to investigate crustal seismic velocity structure and sources of volcanism in Armenia. Armenia, a key part of the tectonically and volcanically active Caucasus‐Anatolia region, is actively being deformed by the ongoing Arabian‐Eurasian continental collision. Unlike typical intracontinental settings, Armenia exhibits exceptional diversity of volcanic compositions and eruption styles: large stratovolcanoes are interspersed among more broadly distributed monogenetic cones and extensive lava flows. This study presents the first seismic tomography model of Armenia with sufficient resolution to infer potential magma sources. We analyze ∼19 months of continuous ambient noise data recorded by 32 seismic stations, extracting Green's functions and Rayleigh wave dispersion curves. A two‐step tomographic inversion first yields 2D group velocity maps, followed by a 3D shear‐wave velocity model. Synthetic tests confirm the model's resolution and ability to detect lateral and vertical velocity anomalies. Our results reveal prominent low‐velocity anomalies down to 25 km beneath monogenetic cones, likely indicating magma transport zones. At greater depths, velocity anomalies reverse sign. A high‐velocity zone at 40 km depth beneath dispersed cones suggests crustal thinning and asthenosphere upwelling. Beneath Lake Sevan, we identify two distinct structures: a low‐velocity anomaly in the NW linked to fault‐related fracturing and fluid saturation, and a high‐velocity anomaly in the SE that may represent a rigid block, possibly remnant oceanic crust. This study provides new insights into crustal structure beneath Armenia, shedding light on its magmatic and tectonic evolution.