Alaverdi

Alaverdi is a town in the Lori Province of Armenia, located in the Debed River valley in the northern part of the country. It sits along regional transportation routes and functions as an industrial center within the province.

The town developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries around copper mining and processing. A large copper-smelting plant established in the Soviet era became a major employer and helped shape the urban landscape, with industrial facilities intermingling with residential areas. In the post-Soviet period, the plant underwent modernization and restructuring, while the local economy diversified to include services and agriculture.

Geographically, Alaverdi lies in a scenic section of the Debed River Gorge. The surrounding region is known for historical sites, including nearby monasteries such as Akhtala and other medieval churches that reflect Armenia’s rich cultural heritage.

Administratively, Alaverdi serves as a regional population center, hosting local government offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. The population has fluctuated in line with broader economic changes affecting northern Armenia.

Alaverdi should not be confused with Alaverdi Monastery in Georgia, a separate historic site located in Kakheti.