Angeghakot: The Village Where the Independence Program Was Discussed
Angeghakot is one of the oldest settlements in Armenia, with a history dating back thousands of years.
I have said many times that when you begin traveling through Armenia, you will walk along the traces of history that you first learned about during your school years.
At some point, you will stop in a place, travel back in your thoughts to memories, and then return to reality again.
This time, we begin our hike from Angeghakot. Besides its beautiful landscapes and nature, this place holds a great story, which I am about to share.
As you walk, on the left side of the road you will see a building in the distance. It is a church.
The Independence Program of Armenia Was Discussed Here in 1699
The independence program was discussed in this village.
The Angeghakot meeting was attended by 11 prince-meliks of Syunik.
The issues discussed were related to the liberation of Eastern Armenia from Persian rule, organizing the movement, arming the people, and preparing them for the struggle against foreign conquerors.
The program proposed by Israel Ori was accepted. According to it, a secret army was to be organized, which would pass through Russia, meet with the united Armenian-Georgian army, first liberate Eastern Armenia, and then move toward Western Armenia. The future king was to become Johann Wilhelm.
The Year 451: Vardan Mamikonyan
During the walk, we were told that Angeghakot is one of the ancient settlements of Greater Armenia.
The village is first mentioned as early as the 5th century, although it is known that it existed much earlier.
Neolithic and Bronze Age traces have been discovered in the area of the village. Around it are burial grounds dating back to the 8th–1st millennia BC, remains of Cyclopean fortresses, and from later periods—medieval cross-stones (khachkars), cemeteries, and mills.
The most significant sanctuary of Angeghakot is the “Vardan Zoravar” shrine, where, according to local legends, the remains of the military commander and prince Vardan Mamikonyan are buried. According to tradition, his body was brought here by the troops returning from the Battle of Avarayr in 451.
Vasak Syuni
During the same period, the governor Vasak Syuni lived in Angeghakot. In the village area, there is a monument beneath which, according to local legends, Vasak Syuni is buried.
On your way, stop for a moment and admire the power of the story you have heard.
You will not even notice how quickly you reach the final destination.
The last 100 meters of the walk await you, and then Shaki Waterfall will open before you in all its beauty.
Hurry to take your photographs—the area will soon fill with tourists.
To organize your visit, contact Basen Hotel & Tours.
