Dilijan (Armenian: Դիլիջան) is a spa town and urban municipal community in the Tavush Province of Armenia. Hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking are popular recreational activities.
Usually called Armenian Switzerland or Little Switzerland by the locals, it is one of the most important resorts of Armenia, situated within the Dilijan National Park.
Dilijan National Park is known for its forest landscapes, rich biodiversity, medicinal mineral water springs, natural and cultural monuments, and extensive network of hiking trails.
The forested and reclusive town is home to numerous Armenian artists, composers, and filmmakers and features some traditional Armenian architecture. The Sharambeyan street in the centre, has been preserved and maintained as an “old town”, complete with craftsman’s workshops, a gallery and a museum.
In an ancient popular legend, the name of the town is named after a shepherd called Dili. The shepherd Dili was in love with his master’s daughter, however her father was against it and ordered to kill the shepherd.
For many long and dark days, the sorrowful mother was mourning and looking for her only son all over the area and desperately crying, “Dili jan, Dili jan .. ” ’Jan’ is an Armenian endearment term added to the name of a friend or family member. According to the legend the area was later known for his name.
