Tsaghkavan is one of the oldest settlements in the Tavush region, founded approximately in the mid-13th century. Historically, the settlement was located about 500-1000 meters south of the current village site. The village was a residence of meliks (noble rulers) and was called Melikgyugh until the 1940s, when it was renamed Tsaghkavan on March 2, 1940.
The old site of Melikgyugh is located about 1000 meters south of the present village. On the hill at the southern edge of the village, remnants of an ancient pre-Christian Armenian shrine (possibly a pagan temple) have been discovered, with large hewn stones arranged in a circle. It is likely that in ancient times, this was the gathering place for the village elders’ council.
On the same hill, there are khachkars (cross-stones) from the 13th century. There are also khachkars in the nearby forests, including those in the so-called “Celtic” style. One of these is located above “Pulk” and is called Spitak Khach (White Cross).
The surroundings of Melikgyugh-Tsaghkavan are favorable for eco- and ethno-tourism. Numerous springs with cold water flow along the edge of the Tavush forest, known for their healing properties (particularly beneficial for treating eczema and gastrointestinal diseases). The most famous of these springs is Masmani Spring.
The project is implemented within the framework of the “We Are Our Mountains” program, financed by the European Union’s EU4Culture initiative. The project is carried out by the Ijevan Municipality and the Urban Sustainable Development Foundation.
