Alaverdi Cable Car Station
In the heart of Alaverdi, a town in the Lori Province of Armenia, lies an intriguing relic of the past – the abandoned cable car station. This once-busy transport hub was essential for locals navigating the steep terrain of the Debed River Gorge. Today, it stands silent, a haunting reminder of Alaverdi’s industrial heyday.
The cable car station opened on June 16, 1977. At its peak, it served 900 passengers daily, connecting neighborhoods and providing a lifeline for a city of over 23,000 residents. The system operated tirelessly, from early morning until past midnight, ensuring that locals could commute efficiently.
Lightning strike
However, as Alaverdi’s population declined, so did the cable car’s significance. Financial struggles and reduced demand led to maintenance issues. A lightning strike in 2014 caused severe damage, halting operations for nearly a year. Though repairs were made, the system never fully recovered. After 11 months of repairs, it reopened on April 22, 2015, but the travel time doubled from 4 minutes to 8 minutes.
As passenger numbers dwindled, so did the financial resources needed to keep the cable car running. Management cut staff, increased fares, and ultimately, the service was discontinued. On March 1, 2016, the cable car station ceased operations entirely.
Unique
This cable car was unique in Armenia. Unlike others built for tourism, it was purely functional, designed to serve the community. Now abandoned, it has become a destination for urban explorers and photographers. The station’s rusting machinery, faded signs, and panoramic views over the gorge create an atmosphere of quiet melancholy.
In 2023, I explored this forgotten landmark. Stepping into the station felt like stepping back in time. Dust-covered controls and empty cabins tell the story of a once-vibrant transport network now left to decay. Nature is slowly reclaiming the site, adding to its eerie beauty.
