The landscape of the Southern Armenia stands out for its ecosystem, the diversity of natural, geological and biological resources. When we try to imagine the map of the southern Armenia, the first thing we see is the settlements of Meghri and Agarak. This part of Armenia is also has many cultural and historical monuments, recreational resources, as well as great potential for sustainable development of the area.
Meghri
Meghri is one of the farthermost cities of Armenia. It is located 373 km away from Yerevan, near the border with Iran. Meghri has a population of 4600 people along with its 2 urban and 13 rural communities. The border between Armenia and Iran passes through the Araks River and is the shortest border of Armenia – 35 km.
Unlike other border towns of Armenia, the unemployment rate in Meghri is very low. People work either in mines or in the Armed Forces. The rest of the city is engaged in agriculture and gardening. Meghri is also famous for its fertile gardens. Lately, in addition to traditional fruits, people of Megri started to cultivate the subtropical fruits such as persimmon, olive and kiwi.
Meghri
The so-called “Little Tagh” (small district) stands out in Meghri. It is the oldest part of the city and is home to only 65 families. Most of the houses have kept their original structure – arched and wooden doors and windows, wooden ceilings and fireplaces inside the houses. Since 2005, the “Little Tagh” was included in the list of Armenian cultural and historical monuments. In this district is located the “Areviq” guesthouse where you can feel the old and warm atmosphere of the city and taste the delicious Meghri fruits.
Lichk
Lichk village is located between the “Areviq” National Park and the “Boghakar” National Reserve. Lichk is a small village, which has only two pupils studying in the school. In the past, village was called Leshkin, Lechkin, Sheshkert. The rivers Meghri and Zvaraget flow from both sides of the village. The rivers are unique with the waterfalls located on them. More than 10 continuous waterfalls create a unique water cascade.
Since 2018 near the waterfalls of Lichk there is an “Areviq” campsite where you can enjoy your summer starry nights around the campfire and admire the picturesque views of Lichk waterfalls.
Shvanidzor
Shvanidzor is one of the prosperous villages in Syunik region. It borders the Meghri region and lies on both banks of the lower course of the Shvanidzor River. The village consists of several districts (Mardonts, Nazunts, Nerkin, Vanunts, Terants, etc.). It is famous for its variety of historical and cultural monuments of the Late Middle Ages. Shvanidzor is notable for its 17th century single-arch aqueduct.
Photos by Karo Sahakyan, David Mirzoyan, Tigran Shahbazyan
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