This guidebook is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this guidebook are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. 35/11 Tumanyan St. 0002 Yerevan, RA www.edmc.am DISCOVER SYUNIK Armenia’s Southern Star

Programme Implementation Presence in Syunik region The views expressed therein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the OSCE.

1/60 A. Manoukian Str., Kapan, Syunik, Armenia

Developed by USAID EDMC Project Short Term Consultant Nadia Pasqual

Maps, Design and Printied by Collage LLC © Photos by C WWF-Armenia, Shikahogh State Reserve, Nadia Pasqual, Armen Shahbazyan, Karen Arzumanyan, Ashot Muradyan

Yerevan 2012 Meet Syunik Facts about Syunik

Syunik is the largest and most southerly of Armenia’s ten regions. It covers about 4.500 sq.km and includes the districts of Sisian, Goris, Kapan and Meghri that are also the main urban centers. Kapan is the regional administrative center and hosts the regional government authority. The region is known for its range of altitudes. The Zangezur mountain chain in the East includes The main rivers are Araks, Vorotan, Voghji and four of Armenia’s five highest peaks: Kaputjugh Meghri, and the region is rich in natural springs (3906m), Gazanasar (3856 m), Siskatar (3826 and sources of mineral water. m) and Parakan (3825 m), whereas the lowest point is the Araks River (375 m) along the Iranian Syunik includes all of Armenia’s climatic zones border in the South. Mount Khustup (3201 m) creating a rich diversity of ecosystems: semi- overlooking the town of Kapan is a favorite haunt deserts, dry steppes, forests, alpine and of climbers and hikers. Tall conical rocks in Goris, subalpine meadows and snowy zones. About the Devil’s Bridge over the Vorotan River near 20% of Armenia’s forests are located in Syunik Tatev, and Shaki Falls near Sisian, are among and they cover most of the Southern part of the the region’s most stunning natural attractions. region.

Syunik Region is a magical place where Armenia’s The people of Syunik warmly welcome visitors, distinctive historical and cultural heritage blend and will be glad to tell you stories about their with amazing natural scenery to offer unique travel beloved land. To start with, they will tell you why experiences. In Syunik, 450 historical and cultural Syunik region (marz in Armenian) is also called monuments and seven protected areas provide “Zangezur,” a name that dates back to the 18th numerous destinations and activities to visitors. century. At that time, a huge copper bell hung Wander in medieval monasteries overlooking on the gates of Syunik border to clang if the breathtaking gorges, explore ancient fortresses enemy approached. A legend tells that one day towering above the Silk Road, hike among pristine the enemy intruded into the terrain, built a fire forests in national reserves, or climb a mountain beneath the bell and melted it. When the attack for an almost mystical adventure. You can simply started, the villagers ran to ring the bell, but enjoy open-air life and greenery with a walk to found it destroyed. Instead of falling into despair, crystal-clear lakes or a picnic by a waterfall. the valiant Syunik people shouted “The bell And when you are done exploring, experience didn’t ring,” words that in Armenian sounds like legendary Armenian hospitality with a home-stay “Zangezur.” They then vowed: “We will survive to sample organic food and learn about local without the bell”. traditions and folklore. 2 3 Kapan – Syunik’s Star Nowhere in Syunik is the heritage of liberation and exiled from their historical lands, were on movements as rich as in Kapan and its sur- the edge of annihilation. Yerevan was caught roundings. It is here that many battles led by between the Turkish army on the one hand, and David Bek and Garegin Nzhdeh took place, the advancing forces of the Red Army, quickly and Kapan symbolizes the history of the whole establishing its control in the Caucasus, on the Syunik region. In 987 Kapan became the other. Nevertheless, thanks to Garegin Nzhdeh capital of the Syunik kingdom, until its invasion and other patriots, Southern Syunik remained by Seljuk Turks in 1170. In the 18th century, Armenian, firmly affirming its independence. Kapan became the center of Syunik national liberation movement headed by legendary Eventually, however, the borders of Soviet Ar- hero David Bek, which repulsed the Ottoman menia encompassed also Syunik. During the army from the HHalidzoralidzor FortressFortress in 1722-30. 70-year Soviet rule, Kapan became a lively Early in the 19th century, Syunik and Kapan mining city and the major cultural center of the were divided between Russia and Persia over region. When Soviet Union collapsed, Kapan the Voghji River. Kapan fell under the Russian again appeared on the first line of the Arme- rule until after the collapse of Tzarist Russia in nian liberation war. In 1991, the Republic of 1918-1920, when it again became the center Armenia won its desired independence, and in for the Armenians’ fight for independence. The 1995 the Marz of Syunik was established with Armenians, having narrowly escaped genocide Kapan as its center.

A Glorious Past

Syunik has played an essential role in the formation of Armenian history and in the life of the independent Republic of Armenia, thanks to its endowment of gold, copper, and molybdenum. Distant from Armenia’s centers of power, Syunik forged its own distinctive character, while the independent and brave spirit of Syunik’s people were crucial in preserving Armenian national identity and local traditions over the centuries. Political and administrative power was wielded historically by local princes and noblemen, whereas religious power was held by local bishops. According to Stepanos Orbelyan, the 13th-century historiographer of the Syunik area - the people of Syunik province became the first Armenian Christians when in 59 AD the apostle Bartholomew preached in Baghk city, the ancient name of Kapan. Many battles to free Armenia from the Persians and Ottomans were fought in this region during the 17th-19th centuries. Syunik’s history is rife with heroes who fought against foreign invaders. In the 18th century general DDavitavit BBekek battled the Ottomans, and early in the 20th century GGareginaregin NNzhdehzhdeh opposed the Soviet government and its plans to annex Syunik. At the end of the 20th century, Armenia again faced the threat of losing Zangezur during the Karabakh war, but once again the attempt was successfully resisted. Numerous historic and cultural monuments dotting the region will give visitors a chance to get familiar with Syunik’s glorious past.

4 5 A paradise for nature lovers – things to do Shikahogh State Reserve Syunik includes large protected natural areas reserve. The reserve was established in 1958 to conserve, study and recover unique flora and fauna of that were established to preserve the region’s Ecotourism, rural tourism and nature tours the broadleaf forests on the northern slopes of the Meghri Ridge encompassed by the Tsav and environment and biodiversity. To nature lovers are possible in the Shikahogh State Reserve, Shikahogh rivers. The reserve covers about 29,500 ha, including Plane Grove Sanctuary, and they are Syunik’s most endearing attractions, Zangezur State Sanctuary and Arevik National comprises the Shikahogh and Mtnadzor districts. The adjoining villages are Chakaten, Shikahogh, offering an amazing natural scenery made Park, where visitors can explore pristine nature Srashen, Tsav, Shishkert and Nerkin Hand. The Zangezur State Sanctuary is also managed out of of forested mountains, rock canyons and along trails for hiking, cycling and horseback- the reserve. river gorges. They are located mostly in the riding, as well as by off-road cars along dirt Ranging in elevation from 700 m (Tsav riverside) up to over 2000 m (Meghri Ridge), Shikahogh South and include Shikahogh State Reserve, roads leading to crystal-clear springs and abounds with small streams carrying their rapid waters to the Tsav River and its tributaries, the comprising Plane Grove Sanctuary; Zangezur mountain lakes. Lovers of bird watching and Shikahogh and Mazra. There are freshwater springs surrounded by swampy habitats. The foothills State Sanctuary and Arevik National Park, and other wildlife observation will find their paradise lower altitudes are covered by dense broadleaf forests that become subalpine meadows at higher the Boghakar Reserve. Another protected area on Earth here where they can spot indigenous altitudes. The reserve is characterized by heights of 1400-1800 m and slope declivities of 30- is Sev Lich Nature Reserve is to be found on and rare species of flora and fauna, while 40 degrees, while parts of the Meghri Ridge feature steep rocky massifs protruding through the Mount Mets Ishkhanasar (3550 m) in northern Syunik’s mountainous terrain offers almost forests. Flora of higher plants numbers more than 1,000 species, 70 of which have been registered Syunik. Mount Khustup with its granite peaks unlimited rock climbing options. in the Red Book of Armenia, and 18 in the Red Book of the Soviet Union. Shikahogh is one of overlooking Kapan town will also become a three places in the country where the common yew Taxus baccata species is still preserved. Fauna include several rare species of birds, reptiles and mammals that are named in the Red Data Book of Armenia, such as leopard, brown bear, bezoar goat, Armenian mouflon, snowcock, viper and hedgehog. Mtnadzor is one of the last virgin forests that are left in the Caucasus, preserving a unique ecosystem. It is located in a deep canyon adjoining the Tsav village within the Shikahogh State Reserve. The name Mtnadzor means “dark canyon” and refers to the twilight that predominates in the forested gorge, where the sun only shines for a few hours a day due to the north-south orientation and the steep slopes (40 degree) of the canyon. The Mtnadzor forest was made famous by the writings of Armenian author Aksel Bakunts and the waterfall in Tsav gained notoriety because Armenia’s former prime minister spent his holidays there.

6 7 Orientalis)

Plane Grove Sanctuary

The Plane Grove Sanctuary (12,137 ha) is the biggest natural grove of the oriental plane (Platanus in the Caucasus comprising over a thousand trees ranging in age from 250 to 350 years, and a few reaching age of 1,000 years, as well as interesting species of flora and fauna. Enormous plane trees up to 45 m high stand along the Tsav River on an area about 10 km wide and 150 m long, adjoining the Nerkin Hand village to the west. According to tradition, plane trees were planted by travelers more than a thousand years ago and then proliferated into a large grove over the centuries. The grove located on the Silk Road, and served as a place for traders to get rest and refreshment. According to an old legend, Armenian King Ara Geghetsik and Babylonian Queen Shamiram trysted in this grove. Zangezur State Sanctuary

Zangezur State Sanctuary (17,368 ha) is a protected area founded in 2009 and managed by the Shikahogh State Reserve. It spreads across the Zangezur Ridge and southern slopes of the Bargushat Ridge, and is bounded by the mining area of Kajaran mining town and the Meghri Ridge in the East. Fauna in Zangezur includes about 200 species of vertebrates, some of which are named in the Red Book of Armenia as endangered species. The Sanctuary is surrounded by the communities of Karut, Nor Astghaberd, Ajabaj, Vocheti, Geghi, Kitsk, Verin, Geghavank, Lernadzor and Kajaran. It covers the basin of the Voghji headwaters and that of the left tributary Geghi along the canyons of the Bagurshat Ridge. Local villages have preserved the traditions and customs of rural Armenian lifestyle. It is a mountainous area with narrow and deep canyons, plateaus, high jagged ridge tops, rapid streams, waterfalls, highland lakes, springs, caves, rocks and screes. Hiking tours to Tsaghkar and Gogi Lakes are the most fascinating way to discover the sanctuary, and can be organized by contacting the Shikahogh State Reserve. 8 9 Arevik National Park

Arevik National Park, located in the Meghri district, was founded in 2009 and covers an area of Mount Khustup 34,401 ha including BBoghakaroghakar Sanctuary,Sanctuary founded in 1989. It was established to preserve the Vachagan village, crossing over the river and unique biodiversity of Meghri and Zangezur mountain ranges. Its purpose is to protect ecosystems Majestic Mount Khustup (3201 m) is a popular forests. From there it takes 4-6 hours to reach that include broad leaf forest, juniper open woodlands, subalpine and alpine meadows, semi desert destination for hikers, trekkers and climbers to the granite rock of Khustup and its peak. and mountain steppes, as well as conservation of natural and historical heritage sites and protection located south of Kapan. The Vachagan river of indigenous rare and threatened flora and fauna species, such as the Caucasian leopard, bezoar flows from the mountain across deep gorges 3. More difficult. Go by car from Vachagan to goat, Armenian mouflon, brown bear, otter, Caspian snowcock, Caucasian black grouse, Armenian amid breathtaking mountain scenery. The the Koulu ancient settlement, followed by a viper and others. It is the largest terrestrial protected area in Armenia, and is the habitat for more mountain, which will become a protected 6-hour walk to the peak of Khustup, through than 1,500 species of vascular plants including 24 registered in the Red Data Book of Armenia nature area soon, offers hiking routes of Tuli-Kar and Khachi-Khut. (RDBA) and 19 indigenous species, about 245 species of vertebrate animals including 49 registered different degrees of difficulty, all leading to the Very difficult. This pathway begins from the in the RDBA and 12 on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red Data List. granite peaks of the top and requiring physical village of Vachagan, leads to the Koulu ancient strength and training. The route classification settlement, up to Kamhar Mountain through below is informal and since there are no road two fields known as Nerqin and Verin Yurd. signs, you should not try them without an Kamhar Mountain Kamhar Khustup from the experienced guide. right side and leads upwards. It is possible 1. Easy way. Cross Baghaburj village by car, and to travel either on foot or on horseback. The you will pass 70% of the upward pathway. The ascent takes 6-7 hours. rest (about 5 km) should be crossed on foot, 5. Most difficult. Through Vachagan village to and some difficult sections on horseback. the river, then go up by the Vordzaki hill, then 2. Not difficult. This pathway leads through up to the peak of Khustup. Almost 100% of the left side of the mountain, starting from the road is an uphill incline, traversable in 6-7 hours. 10 11 Rural tourism and ecotourism Tourist attractions – what to see Northern Syunik – Sisian and Goris Rural tourism and ecotourism are among the most interesting ways to explore Syunik and its protected nature areas while In Northern Syunik the most popular tourist archaeological artifacts including vases, pots and fostering local community’s development. A range of small attractions are near SSisianisian and GGoris,oris two pleasant jewelry, carpets, furniture and photos, many of the hotels and guesthouses in the larger urban centers cater to towns offering a range of accommodation items dating back to the Bronze Age. the needs of the most demanding visitors, while a home stay in establishments and restaurants. After entering the a village offers the chance of experiencing the local way of life Gates of Syunik at the Vorotan Pass (2344 m) the Located just three km north of Sisian, off the and traditions. Spandarian Reservoir is a well visible landmark, main highway leading to Goris, is KKarahunge,arahunge blue waters stretching for 7 km amid beautiful known as Armenia’s Stonehenge, one of Syunik’s Shikahogh State Reserve organizes tours for individuals and mountain scenery. Before getting to Sisian, SShakihaki main attractions. This prehistoric astronomical small groups of up to five in the Mtnadzor area, and up to FFallsalls is a nice stop in a green river valley. The 18- observatory is made up of 204 basalt stones ten elsewhere in the reserve and Plane Grove Sanctuary. The meter-high waterfall flow is at its peak when it is placed vertically in a circular shape. Some have peak period runs from June to October. There are currently - not being diverted to feed a nearby hydroelectric holes near the top with a variety of shapes. five different routes, most of which are suitable for hiking and plant, but the falls are imposing anytime. Bathing Precise dating is difficult, but the site is certainly horseback riding, off-road vehicles being allowed only within and swimming in the hollows at the waterfall’s base more than 5,000 years old. Some studies even prescribed areas. Daily tours include visits to the main natural is very refreshing of a hot Armenian summer day. claim that Karahunge is older than Stonehenge, and historical sites at the villages within the Reserve. Overnight and dates back 7,000-7,500 years. stays inside the reserve and sanctuary are not allowed but can SSisianisian is a small pleasant town ranging north and From Sisian an interesting half or full day excursion be arranged in the local villages that also hold tourist attractions south of the Vorotan River. Offering several inns can be organized to UUghtasarghtasar PPetroglyphetroglyph FField,ield such as traditional livelihoods, ancient churches and buildings. and restaurants, it is a good starting point to which is located at 3,300 m and can be reached Lodging is available at the Shikahogh State Reserve visitors explore Northwestern Syunik. In town you should only by special four-wheel car. From Ishkhanasar center. not miss SSisavankisavank – the 7th-century church is one village, Mount Ughtasar can be reached following of the earliest and best-preserved examples of the car tracks, which can be barely visible at times, for Hovik Nourijanyan organizes expeditions to Khustup from typical Armenian church style with domed cruciform 15 km up to an altitude of 3,000 m. You then need Vachagan village and can provide guides, horses or mules, food, shape. The small AAdontsdonts SSisianisian HHistoryistory MMuseumuseum in to walk the remaining 500 m to the petroglyph and everything else needed for a one-day expedition. They can the center has a fascinating outdoor collection of field. The trip can be undertaken only in July also organize seven-day expeditions. Overnight stays can be petroglyphs carved with different animal shapes, and August, during good weather conditions. An arranged at Hovik’s B&B in Vachagan village or outdoors--up as well as other stone works such as capitals, experienced driver and guide are necessary to to 20 tents can be provided and set up in Koulu, on the bank carvings and khachkars (cross stones), from the reach the site, and explain the most interesting of Vachagan River. Bronze to the Medieval Ages. Three rooms exhibit

The NGO Women’s Resource Centers located in Goris, Kapan and Meghri are another way to connect with local communities and foster sustainable rural development. These centers provide tourist information, organize tours to local attractions, and sell high quality handicrafts, carpets, souvenirs and arts produced by local women. Tours to workshops of local artists and artisans can be arranged. www.syunikwrc.net - www.homelandhandicrafts.org (?)

12 13 designs. The place is enchanting--more than TTatevatev Monastery,Monastery located 30 km south of Goris 2,000 rocks carved with different designs, dating on an imposing rock spur protruding over the to between 12,000 and 4000 BC, are scattered Vorotan River Gorge, is Syunik’s wonder. On the around in an area set amid mountain crests and road to the monastery along the Vorotan River, a small glacier lakes. Most of the designs represent stop at the DDevil’sevil’s BBridgeridge natural formation is a animals, human beings and symbols. must. Next to the rock bridge, hot and fresh water springs formed colorful pools, waterfalls, caves From Sisian, follow the impressive VVorotanorotan RRiveriver and stalactites. The site is protected by WWF, and gorge to the southeast, and find a peculiar 7th- is a popular picnic spot. A quick way to return is century funerary monument in AAghitu.ghitu Little is by the ““WingsWings ooff TTatev”atev” cableway connecting the known about this mysterious and unusual two- monastery to Halidzor village. It is the longest tier structure supported by columns mounted on reversible aerial tramway (5.7 km) built in one an arched base. Further along the same route, section, and it appeared in the GGuinnessuinness WWorldorld about 9 km from Sisian, VVorotnavankorotnavank mmonasteryonastery RRecordsecords BookBook as soon as it opened in 2010. The rises on the edge of the impressive Vorotan Tatev fortified monastery complex, founded in 9th Gorge surrounded by magnificent scenery of century, was Syunik’s religious and cultural center. It rocky mountains. The monastery complex, comprises several churches and service buildings founded in 1,000 AD by Queen Shahanduk, was that hosted hundreds of monks and scholars. The restored recently, and its fortified wall encircles medieval oil mill called “Dzit-han” was restored two churches, several service buildings and recently, and includes a seed grinder and panels gravestones. About 4 km from the monastery the explaining the process of oil pressing. The notable 19th-century “Melik Tangi” bridge leads picturesque monument located in the monastery to SShambhamb HHotot SSpringsprings where locals enjoy bathing yard is called Gavazan and it is an ingenuous piece in a large pool of natural hot spring water. South of engineering dating back to 904 AD. It is formed of Sisian, along the Sisian River, a panoramic road by an 8-meter pillar built with overlaying stones, and a nice walk lead you to the ruins of TTanahatanahat surmounted by a khachkar (cross stone). It would MMonasteryonastery, located across the river, comprising a oscillate in case of an earthquake or an enemy 5th-century church and a cemetery. army approaching, and then return to its standing position. GGorisoris (32 km east of Sisian) is an old town of 25,000 characterized by the regionally representative Don’t miss the OOldld KhndzoreskKhndzoresk ccaveave vvillageillage (Hin architecture of the houses and its long tree-lined Khndzoresk) about 19 km east of Goris, an ancient avenues. Tall conical rock formations---some of settlement with thousands of cave dwellings which host cave dwellings--surround the basin located near the deep Khndzoresk valley. In June where the town was founded in 1870. Goris has 2012 a 160-meter-long metal sswingingwinging bbridgeridge several interesting museums, such as the AAkselksel was opened to provide easy access to the village. House Museum, commemorating an Armenian The bridge rises 63 meters high above the river author, the GGorisoris CCityity GGalleryallery displaying works and offers breathtaking views over the gorge of Armenian painters and artists from different adding to the adventure of exploring this amazing regions, and the AArchaeologicalrchaeological MMuseumuseum housing place. Most of the caves were carved in the late more than 500 exhibits including bronze weapons, Iron to medieval period, but the village continued jewels, household items, metal and stone works. to grow until the 19th century. In 1913, 3,000 families still lived in cave dwellings and some of

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ï ³ í BBgheno-Noravankgheno-Noravank is a monastery located in the YYeritsavankeritsavank is a 6th-century monastery located forest about 16 km south of Goris, and 3.5 km about 3 km NE of Artsavanik village (Artsin from the M2 highway leading to Kapan, just off the meaning eagle), off the M2 Highway Goris-Kapan. village road to Bardzravan. Founded in the 10th The complex consists of remains of the outer century, Bgheno Noravank became one of Syunik’s wall, the 6th-century S. Stepanos Nakhav’ka most important religious and cultural sites. It was church, and foundations of monk cells and service a summer residence for Syunik’s bishops and buildings. The monastery is named after Yeritsak, an important university in medieval Armenia. a hermit who was later appointed bishop of Syunik Thousand of precious miniatures were produced in the mid 6th-century. He built the monastery as in its scriptorium (writing room for scribes), but a hermitage and place of prayer, but it soon most of them were destroyed during raids by became a popular religious center in the early the Seljuks and Mongols. One of the manuscripts Syunik kingdom. Today the single-nave church that survived is the famous Echmiadzin Gospel with a vaulted ceiling can still be seen although that was completed in Bgheno Noravank in 989 it is poorly preserved. The plain overlooking and is now exhibited at the Matenadaran Institute Mount Khustup offers astonishing views of the of Manuscripts in Yerevan. The monastery was valley. Within walking distance from the church, abandoned in the 14th century, and rediscovered in the forest, there is a quaint picnic area with a in the 1920s by writer Axel Bakunts. What can roofed hall, tables and benches that also serves be seen today is a small basalt church of 1062 well for camping. The road to Arsavanik village is that was reconstructed and shows elaborate not marked (you need to take a turn right from the biblical reliefs and other geometric carving. main road from Kapan but no signs), bumpy and Some khatchkars (cross stones), two of which in bad condition. From the village to Yeritsavank is display extraordinary human figures, as well as a dirt road crossing meadows takes to the ruins. foundations and ruins of other buildings can be About 1 km west from the church are other ruins, seen next to the church. Outside the monastery but they are also unmarked. Ask locals to point are a picnic table and a fresh water spring that them out to you. makes this a nice camping place.

them did not leave until the 1980s, when they finally moved to a new village in the higher plain. Some of the caves were elaborately carved from the limestone to create decorations including suites of rooms including front rooms, windows, porches and gardens. The houses formed an ingenious defense system with interconnected tunnels and trap doors that allowed villagers to escape to lower caves and the valley floor in case of enemy attack. The area comprises about 1,800 cave dwellings, some of which are still used as barns. Among the spots that should not be missed are the 4th-century St. Tadevos cave church, St. Hripsimeh church, located on the valley floor close to a spring, and the roofless Anapat (Hermitage) church. The Spring Cave is a sacred place where spring water is collected in basins.

20 21 Southern Syunik – Kapan and Meghri

KKapanapan is the Syunik regional center and a lively about 14,000 items such as documents, town on the Voghji River. The mining industry is photographs, pictures, letters, old books, bustling there, and the city offers a good range memoirs, musical instruments and ancient of accommodations, restaurants and shopping radio equipment relating to Kapan’s people opportunities. Thanks to its location in the and places. The museum complex includes center of Southern Syunik, Kapan is the ideal a building across the inner garden that will starting point for daily excursions to Mount become an ethnographic museum to re-create Khustup, Shikahogh State Reserve, Zangezur a household and the way of life of locals in the Sanctuary, Arevik National Park and Meghri. 19th century. The open-air collection includes A walk along the riverbank is a good way to stone works, such as khachkars (cross stones), observe its rapid waters and plunge into city graves, burial stones, and large vases exhibited life. From the tree-lined central park visitors in the museum inner courtyard. Next to the city can enjoy an astonishing view of Vachagan hall the local branch of YYerevanerevan ContemporaryContemporary River flowing down from Mount Khustup (3201 AArtsrts MMuseumuseum periodically organizes exhibitions m) that overlooks Kapan before merging with and has a permanent exposition of canvases the Voghji River. National hero Davit Bek’s and sculptures of contemporary artists. statue representing a horseman with a sword and rising high next to the crossroads in the Photos on most important events, monuments, center of town is one of the local landmarks, weapons used during the Second World War, and proclaims Kapan’s leading role in the as well as crude stones, antiquities and murals liberation movement. BBaghaburjaghaburj MMemorialemorial covering more than 200 years of the history CComplex,omplex located 200m south of Kapan and of Kapan are exhibited at the SShumavonhumavon built in 1970-1990, is composed of four MMovsisyanovsisyan HHistoryistory MMuseum.useum monuments dedicated to the Great Genocide, the victims of the Karabakh war, an unknown TThehe HalidzorHalidzor BBerderd (Fortress) is a fortified soldier and the victims and soldiers of WWII. complex located on top of a hill by the Voghji The GGareginaregin NNzhdehzhdeh MMemorialemorial CComplexomplex is River overlooking Kapan. It was built in the 17th located in the northwestern part of Kapan century in the place of a medieval convent. The and is the tombstone of the general who freed fortress became known as the headquarters Kapan, Goris and Sisian from the Russian Army of Davit Bek, the famous Armenian freedom in 1920, ensuring that Syunik remained part fighter who led legendary battles against the of Armenia. Ottomans in the 1720s. Davit Bek eventually died of an illness at this fortress in 1728, A few small but interesting museums in Kapan but no one knows where his body was buried. are worth visiting to learn about local history The Halidzor Berd complex includes service and traditions. Kapan Archaeological museum buildings, a church and fortified walls. It was features local history and traditions of Kapan restored recently, and can be accessed on foot district and Syunik Marz from the 9th century (500 m) or by car along a bumpy steep dirt to the 20th century. The collection includes road.

22 23 Southern Syunik

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ACCOMMODATION & FOOD §ØºÔðƦ û¹³Ý³í³Ï³Û³Ý - 10 ÏÙ, ²¶²ð²Î - 18 ÏÙ 18 - ²¶²ð²Î ÏÙ, 10 - û¹³Ý³í³Ï³Û³Ý §ØºÔðƦ KAJARAN - 63 km, KAPAN - 96 km, YEREVAN - 401 km - 96 km, YEREVAN KAJARAN - 63 km, KAPAN TThehe BBaghaberdaghaberd FortressFortress is located near the MMeghrieghri is an ancient settlement located about and the church dedicated to the Holy Mother of God was built in 1230. SShvanidzorhvanidzor village, located Andokavan village. The building is connected to 6 km from the Armenian-Iranian border. east of Meghri on the M17 road to Kapan, stands out for its picturesque location, valuable buildings Baghak, grandchild of Sisak, a prince of 1700 Meghri can be reached by the M2 highway and an aqueduct dating back to the 17th-century that still operates. Houses in the village have BC who according to legend is an ancestor passing through Kajaran and the highest elaborate columned balconies overlooking the slope, and the village is known for its delicious wine. of the Syunik progeny. The impressive castle mountain pass in Armenia, the Kajaran Pass Another interesting village is MMalevalev that was abandoned some years ago by all inhabitants except for had double walls, of which some 8m-high (2535 m). A new highway, opened in 2007, an elderly couple who still live in this strange and silent place. towers and other ruins remain. In 1103, after connects Kapan to Meghri through the villages the destruction of Kapan city, Baghaberd of Shikahogh, Tsav and Shvanidzor and it is became the capital of the Syunik kingdom, and often the only road option in winter, when thousands of manuscripts were brought to the the Kajaran Pass is snowbound. Meghri is a Fortress from different monasteries, including pleasant and characteristic town of the region Tatev, to protect them from invaders. However, that preservers ancient traditions and folklore. during the invasion by the Seljuk Turks in There are more than 65 historic-cultural 1170, 10,000 books were either stolen from monuments in Meghri, 17 of which are in Meghri Baghaberd or destroyed by the Seljuks. town including churches, fortresses, bridges and memorials. Houses in Meghri include TThehe VVahanavankahanavank MMonasteryonastery is located 6 km historic quarters, such as Pokr Tagh (Old city), west of Kapan. It was the religious center and many still preserve the local traditional for the kings of Syunik. The monastery was architectural style with arched gates, wooden founded in 911 by Vahan, son of Prince Gagik balconies and inner walled gardens. MMeghrieghri of Kapan who built the church and dedicated it FFortressortress overlooks the town center and the to S. Grigor Lusavorich, whose gavit (entrance entire valley with four circular and rectangular hall) on the western wall was added in 1046. towers and fortified walls dating back to the His nephew Vahan II became Bishop of Syunik, 12th Century. It was one of the most effective and then of Catholicos. Queen Shahandukht defensive structures in Armenia, and served as commissioned the S. Astvatsatsin church, where liberation fighter David Bek’s stronghold in the she and her family are buried. The monastery fight against the Turkish army in the 1720s. included several service buildings but suffered In the town center, the AAstvatsatsinstvatsatsin CChurchhurch is several raids until it was totally ruined and a 17th-century building with interesting 19th- abandoned in the mid 14th century. The area century frescoes showing scenes from the around Vahanavank was the setting of Syunik’s Bible, apostles and saints. The area around liberation and independence movements from Meghri and Agarak, the closest village to the the 18th century, but the ruins were not Iranian border, is known for the tropical climate excavated until the mid 20th century. with very hot summers and mild winters. The tasty and sweet fruits growing in local orchards KKajaran,ajaran located on the M2 highway from and courtyards of stone brick houses are Kapan to Meghri, is known as the site of a large famous all over Armenia. molybdenum mine. From here a dirt road leads to Zangezur State Sanctuary and Boghakar KKarchevan,archevan located just a few km west of Reserve, where excursions and treks can Meghri and north of Agarak, is considered the be organized by contacting Shikahogh State oldest village in the Meghri region. Here the Reserve that manages the Sanctuary as well. first school of the region was opened in 1873,

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