Summary
Arman S. Yeghiazaryan
Key words – Abas Bagratuni, reign, “Shahnshah/king of kings of Armenia and Kartli”, Gagik Artsruni, Anania Mokatsi, Kapan, Khachen princedom, Marzuban ibn Muhammad, Kars, Argina.
In the second period (943-953) of reign of Armenian king Abas, Bagratunies’ dominance in Armenia and neighboring countries was restored. At first, after the death of Gagik Artsruni – the second king of Armenia, Abas became the supreme ruler in Armenia. Initially he reunited the south areas of Ayrarat region which have been occupied by Gagik Artsruni to Bagratids’ main possessions. Then Grigor Derenik – successor of Gagik Artsruni recognized his supremacy.
In 943 Abkhazian forces attacked Armenian kingdom. In the battle near Kur River Armenian army defeated the Abkhazians. By that time the Abkhazian kingdom was the main actor in chalcedonian regions of Transcaucasia. The victory against the Abkhazian kingdom expanded the influence of Abas in these regions.
In the second half of 940s Abas and Catholicos of Armenians Anania Mokatsi could resolve the confessional problems in the Armenian Eastern provinces.
The facts show that Abas also got the title of “Shahnshah/king of kings of Armenia and Kartli” at last. Thus the Power of Bagratunies in Armenia and Christian Transcaucasia was restored. As a result of such successes in Armenian sources Abas is known as a victorious king.