Alaverdi is a city situated in the northeast of the Armenian province of Lori, not far from the border with Georgia. This mining and industrial city with approximately 13,000 inhabitants - down from the 1989 census showing 26,300 - situated at the bottom of the Debed river gorge, is one of the commercial centres of the district.
At the end of the 18th century when the area was annexed to the Russian Empire, the Argoutinski-Dolgoruki family "imported" many miners from Greece to start exploiting the copper mines in the area. Soon, about a quarter of all Russian copper was mined in Alaverdi. At the end of the 19th century, the concession to exploit the mine was sold to the French. During control by the Soviet Union through the 20th century, the city acquired today's typical socialist industrial appearance. The mine and metallurgical complex are now privatised and serve as a major employer for the city and its surroundings.
Alaverdi is situated at the only direct rail link between Armenia and Georgia, and one of the several important road connections between the two countries also passes through the city.
Alaverdi has a medieval 12th century bridge, however many important cultural monuments are situated in the vicinity of the town, including the monasteries of Sanahin, Haghpat, Kobayr, Akhtala, Khorakert, Khuchap, Ardvi and a basilica in Odzun. Despite this, Alaverdi's tourist infrastructure is very poor. One of the largest villages nearby is Odzun. |
