Stepanavan, town in the Lori Province of Armenia
Stepanavan is a small town in the Lori region of northern Armenia, situated on the Dzoraget River and surrounded by forests and hills. The settlement features simple stone houses, quiet streets, local markets, and a large botanical garden filled with trees and plants from around the world.
The settlement was founded in 1810 and originally called Jalaloghli, named after the Armenian noble family Hasan-Jalalyan. In the early 20th century it was renamed Stepanavan to honor a Soviet leader, reflecting the period when Armenia was part of the Soviet Union.
The town's name honors Stepan Shahumyan, a Bolshevik leader after whom it was renamed in the early 20th century. Today, locals continue their daily routines with a focus on outdoor life, gathering in markets and natural spaces where people exchange greetings and share local food.
The town is easily accessible from Yerevan or the nearby city of Vanadzor by road, with basic accommodations available in small hotels and guesthouses. Visitors should prepare for changing weather and wear comfortable clothing, as exploring typically involves walking through quiet streets and nature trails.
The botanical garden was created in the 1930s by a Polish forester and is now a protected area with rare and beautiful plants from different climates. The Lori Fortress sits on a plateau surrounded by steep gorges on three sides, offering visitors striking views into the valleys below.
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