Shvanidzor
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Shvanidzor Շվանիձոր |
|
 |
|
 |
Shvanidzor (pronounced /ˌʃvɑːniːdzɔr/,Armenian:Շվանիձոր) is a village community in the South-East of Armenia in Syunik province (marz). It borders with Islamic Republic of Iran. Distance between the community and Yerevan – 410km, between the community and Kapan regional center – 102 km, between the community and the main highway- 17 km. The distance between the community and newly built Tsav-Shikahogh highway (which is alternative way to Iran) is 700m. Community lands stretch from 450 to 2864m, on the southern slopes of Meghri mountain range (Tsav-Shvanidzor pass), whereas the settlement itself is located in the forestry area at the bottom, at 630-760m above the sea level, in Astghadzor (Astazor) gorge.
As of 2007, community has 358 residents (de facto 296). Number of families- 110. Main occupations are gardening, animal husbandry, bee-keeping.
Contents |
[edit] History
According to local historical sources, Shvanidzor community was founded in XIII c and counted more than 700 households, in the place of historic settlement of Areviq . The community lands were cultivated during 700 centuries, which resulted in the formation of agro-landscapes. Due to lack of irrigation and low land fertility the community was relocated several. Thus in the vicinity, there are numerous interesting landscapes, remnants of XVII-XVIII c dormitories as well as houses with carved wooden balconies.
The community is especially famous for its kahrezes. Kahrez is the system of underground water channels and intake facilities- kahrezes (also known as qanat). These deep channels are located by 50-60m from each other. There are 5 kahrezes in Shvanidzor. Four of them were constructed in XII-XIVc, even before the village was founded. The fifth kahrez was constructed in 2005. Potable water runs through I, II and V kahrezs. Kahrez III and IV are in quite poor condition. In summer, especially in July and August, the amount of water reaches its minimum, creating critical situation in the water supply system.
[edit] Culture
Shvanidzor is famous for its historical monuments. Close to the community there is a old bridge (XVIIc), as well as Gyumerants, St. Stepanos (XVII-XIXc), Berdikar (XII-XIIIc) churches. There is also an aqueduct of XVIIc. This currently functioning aqueduct is the most important historical monument of such type remaining from the medieval times in Armenia.
Having a long history, Shvanidzor has preserved several specific traditions and rituals. The most celebrated holidays were Easter, Palm Sunday, Wine Blessing etc. Pilgrimage was also quite spread among the inhabitants. For many centuries Shvanidzor has been a residence of meliks, which is reflected in many legends and traditions.
The community members were traditionally engaged in hunting, fishing, animal husbandry, gardening, winery. Part of the community were skillful craftsmen, especially smiths, tailors, carpenters, masons, mat weavers etc.
[edit] Nature
Shvanidzor is located 10km away from Shikahogh State Preserve.
[edit] References
- REC Caucasus. 2008. Sustainable Development of Mountain Communities in the Caucasus. Local Agenda 21. Report.
[edit] Related links
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
