President Sarkissian visited the Lori Citadel: Patriotism begins with simple love, country knowledge breeds attachment to the land, ability to feel it

During his working visit to Lori marz, President Armen Sarkissian visited one of the most famous historical sites of the marz, the medieval Lori Citadel. The President toured the territory of the Citadel. Noting that along with its historical value, the site is eye-catching also because of the surrounding picturesque landscape, President Sarkissian said that it is an attractive place for tourism, and especially from the viewpoint of developing archeological, historical, and ecotourism.

In the conversation with the journalists, Armen Sarkissian noted that even though this was his first visit as President to Lori marz, in student years it was one of his favorite places which he visited often. “One of ways to express patriotism in our student years, was to discover and explore our Fatherland,” he said. “I believe, now too, there is a need to rediscover and explore our Fatherland because those who live in Yerevan, don’t see much of these wonderful places. There are few places in the world where one can find citadels of the 10th or 11th century. This one is not only standing but also provides an opportunity to familiarize with the religious and church presence and daily life.”

He viewed the Citadel not only as a historical asset but also as a beautiful and unique recreation venue and noted, “I don’t think there could be a better resting place than this.” According to the President, the Citadel is not only of a huge historical but also of the economic value and is a touristic treasure. It can develop not only historical tourism but also become a site for cultural events. President Sarkissian discussed the issue with the governor of Lori Andrei Ghukassian and spoke in general about the opportunities and prospects for the region’s development.

“This is a huge asset which has not been fully utilized. We need to assist in making it our common asset, we need to come, to see, to savor, and bring our children too, so that they explore and learn our Fatherland,” the President of Armenia underscored. Responding to a question from a journalist what he would like to show his grandchildren to rediscover the Fatherland, President said that love for the country is a general notion, ”Patriotism begins with simple love, country knowledge breeds attachment to the land, ability to feel it.”