Lermontov: Molokan History and Mountain Scenery

If you are considering Lermontov as a travel destination, you will find a combination of roadside setting, mountain and forest scenery, and Molokan history here. Lermontov and Fioletovo are in Lori, on the road between Vanadzor and Dilijan. The route from Gyumri to Dilijan via Vanadzor passes close to both villages; along the way, there are roadside views and possible stops for sightseeing. The connection to this route differs from the course of the roads that link Lermontov with other places.

Getting There and Finding Your Way

The T-5-10 follows the sequence M-8–Lermontov–Margahovit–Fioletovo–M-8; in this order, Margahovit and Fioletovo come after Lermontov. The T-5-81 connects Lermontov on the T-5-10 with Antarashen. This places a road sequence through several places alongside a connection to Antarashen. Check local road conditions before setting out.

Scenery Between Mountains and Valleys

Forests and mountains surround Lermontov and Fioletovo. The scenery also includes alpine mountains and sloping valleys; farms are located beside the road. The Aghstev rises in the area around the two places and winds through the valleys. The roads and the river are therefore two distinct points of reference: the road sequence connects named places, while the Aghstev follows the valley corridors. The farms beside the road add an agricultural aspect to the rural setting’s mountain and valley forms.

Molokan History and Village Character

Both places are Molokan villages settled in the 19th century by Spiritual Christians from Russia. Lermontov was once exclusively Molokan; today, Molokans and Armenians live there. Its former exclusively Molokan character and its present-day community of Molokans and Armenians make the changes in Lermontov tangible. The architecture in Lermontov and Fioletovo differs from Armenian architecture, adding a distinctive built character in both places to their history of settlement. The historical name Voskresenka and the year 1847 are a separate point of reference alongside the 19th-century settlement history.

Seasonal Roadside Foods

Food culture is seasonal too. Near Lermontov and Fioletovo, you can stop at roadside stalls selling pickled vegetables prepared by Molokan women. Cabbage, carrots and potatoes are offered by the roadside seasonally; the selection may vary. In spring and summer, the villages may also offer cherries, plums, preserved fruit, compotes, mountain honey and wild mushrooms. A 2005 report also links Lermontov with sauerkraut sold at markets. The season is an important point of reference for these foods: roadside offerings may vary, and the additional selection is available in spring and summer.

Discover more destinations: Mikhayelovka, Vahagnadzor, Haghpat, Dsoraget, Vanadzor, Stepanavan, Dsegh, Alaverdi

For the regional travel overview: Lori.