| Historical overviewThe exact time of the founding of the city is unknown. Archeological researches carried out in 70th of 19th century have shown that people started living here since the late Bronze and early Iron ages (the end of the 2nd millennium BC - the beginning of 1 century). The reference to the city was found in various documents of the first half of the XIX century, when Dilijan started to develop as health resort, attracting people suffering from lungs’ diseases. During the excavations in 70th of 19th century there were found valuable items. Part of them demonstrates at the Geological Museum of Dilijan. The culture if Dilijan, especially its architecture, has reached the peak of its development in Middle Ages. In 10-13 centuries Haghartsin and Ghosh, monastery complexes were built, that occupy a prominent place in Medieval Armenian architectural art. These complexes were also cultural centers. Built in this period of time monasteries Dzhuxtak Matosavank were of great importance. In Dilijan, as all over Armenia, there are cultivated khachkars with a unique fretwork, especially with great skill was made khachkar by master Pogos (1291), which was set out in Goshavank. Eventually, economy and culture of settlement have been developing. In 1868 there was opened first school. Later the school was opened in Pogoskilis (presently, quarter Shamaxyan), churches were built. In 1908 the first library was opened. |
