Vaspurakan meaning the "noble land" or "land of princes") was first a province and then a kingdom of Greater Armenia during the Middle Ages centered around Lake Van. The region is considered to be the cradle of Armenian civilization.

During most of its history it was ruled by the Ardzruni dynasty, which first managed to create a principality in the area. At its greatest extent Vaspurakan comprised the lands between Lake Van and Lake Urmia (also known as Kaputan) in 908.

During this time they were under the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Ani. In contrast to the Armenian Vaspourakan, Bagratouni Armenia continued to energetically fight invading forces.

In 1021, the Saljuq Turks suffered a heavy defeat against an Armenian army, led by Vasak Pahlavouni, who died during the battle.

Vaspurakan was elevated to kingdom status in 908. It was annexed by the Byzantine Empire in 1021 and became known as the province of Basprakania or Media.

In about 1050 the whole province of Basprakania was merged with that of Taron. But, it was conquered by the Saljuq Turks between 1054-1056.

The kingdom of Vaspurakan had no specific capital, the court moving as the king transferred his residence from place to place – Van, Ostan/Vostan (modern Gevaş), and so on.