Artsvashen, Armenian enclave in Gegharkunik Province, Armenia
Artsvashen is a village situated at 1463 meters elevation, surrounded by Azerbaijani territory while administratively part of Gegharkunik Province. The settlement occupies a geographically isolated position accessible only through controlled checkpoints.
The village was founded between 1845 and 1859 by Armenians from the Jraberd district and received its current name Artsvashen, meaning Eagle Village, in 1978. The presence of medieval churches indicates continuous settlement spanning several centuries.
The two churches, St. Minas and St. Hovhannes, define the village's character through their long-standing Armenian religious presence in these mountains. The community maintains its spiritual identity through these structures and the traditions they represent.
Access requires special permits and passes through military checkpoints due to the village's sensitive geographic location. Visitors should inquire in advance about current entry conditions and regulations, as restrictions are strictly enforced.
The territory contains Bronze Age tombs and traditional khachkars that form an extended network of monuments alongside the churches. These archaeological remains span thousands of years and demonstrate the long settlement history of the region.
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