VanadzorLori is one of Armenia’s most enchanting regions, second (perhaps) only to Syunik for its stunning landscapes and rugged forests. Lori is also home to some of Armenia’s most beautiful locations, set into the country’s remaining old-growth forests and wilderness areas. The region is host to two World Heritage Sites: the Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin, plus numerous other monasteries and churches along the Dzoraget, Pambak and Debed River gorges, forest complexes unlike any other in the country. The capital of the region is Vanadzor, Armenia’s third city and a good stopping point for exploring the region. Vanadzor was previously known as Kirovakan (after Sergey Kirov) during the Soviet era and as Karakilisa (black church in Turkish) during the Tsarist period. The city is considered to be one of the most picturesque in the entire country, having beautiful summer homes or dachas. However, it is dominated by a large chemical plant. Vanadzor’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, with interesting tombs. The town received its name possibly as early as the 13th century, from a black stone church on a nearby hill. Totally destroyed in 1826 by Hasan Khan during the Russo-Persian war, the city enjoyed considerable uplift from the opening of the railroad to Tbilisi in 1899. The vicinity of the city was the site of the Battle of Karakilisa when in May 1918, General Tovmas Nazarbekian’s outnumbered troops successfully defended it from the invading Turkish Army, pushing them back just a few days after the crucial battle of Sardarapat. On the North side of the Spitak- Vanadzor highway, about 2 km west of the city, there is a little shrine in the ruins of a church, site of a planned monument to that battle. The Vanadzor city features among the most exquisite places of Armenia. With picture perfect natural scenes, the place has attracted several tourists. The city has preserved its specific identity and magnetism. |
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