LORE. HISTORY AND CONTEMPORARY CONDITION

Abstract

Lore fortress is situated in the republic of Armenia, marz (province) of Lore, several kilometres from city of Stepanavan.In the second half of the 9th century Armenian Bagratunis began to fight for the lands of Kvemo Kartli. Finally in the 970’s Kvirike from Armenian Bagratuni dynasty established the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzorageti. The population of the Kingdom was Georgian but with Armenian government. City of Lore was founded by David son of Kvirike in 1020’s.Georgian kings were struggling for the re-establishment of Georgian rule in Kvemo Kartli. Georgian king Bagrat IV succeeded in capturing Samshvilde – the capital city of Tashir-Dzorageti Kingdom. Lore became the new capital city of Tashir-Dzorageti.After several invasions of Turk-Seljuks in 1111-1113, king of Tashir-Dzorageti David II and his brother Abbas were forced to flee from the country, but in 1118 David the Restorer liberated Lore and united it with Georgia. David bestowed Lore to amirspasalari (commander-in-chief of Georgian army). From 13th century Lore was conquered by several invaders, including the Mongols, Tamerlane, etc. Lore was liberated by king Alexander I and from that period Lore and surrounding territories belonged to the royal domain. But in the 18th century Lore lost its importance.Lore fortress was located in the strategic and high triangular plateau, which is surrounded by high canyons from both sides. From the north-west side of the fortress high and strong fortification was erected for the protection of Lore. The length of the wall is approximately 500 meters. Lore was one of the most important fortresses in the medieval Tashiri Valley. It was the major fortification in the South of Georgia. When Lore was under Georgian control, the country was almost secured.The area that covers the fortress itself includes dwelling apartments, bath-houses, and khachkars. Dawn in the valley arch bridge was constructed. Weapons, pottery, and precious adornments are discovered in the area of the fortress.