the ancient ARAXES, a large river of Armenia, rises near the city of Erzeroum, and the sources of the Phrat or western branch of the Euphrates, and flows eastward for about 500 miles, when it joins the Kur. It is a very rapid and muddy river, with steep banks that prevent its waters being used for the purpose of irrigation. About 200 miles from its source it is joined by the Arpa-chai.