Lori

Lori occupies a naturally defended plateau between the gorges of the Dzoraget and Urut. Founded by David Anhoghin, the fortress-city became the capital of the Armenian kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget in the eleventh century. Within its walls stood an acropolis, dwellings and bathhouses supplied with water through clay pipes. Its position on a northern trade route brought merchants and craftsmen into contact with Ani, Dvin and Tiflis.

In 1177 the fortress was the refuge of Prince Demna during his revolt against the Georgian king Giorgi III. Mongol forces captured the city in the thirteenth century, taking the treasures of its Zakarian rulers. Although its importance diminished, the walls and the steep river gorges continued to mark the site of a former royal capital.