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.
