Charentsavan, founded in 1947 as a Soviet industrial town, represents a significant piece of Armenia's industrial heritage. Originally named Lusavan and later renamed after poet Yeghishe Charents, the city was developed as a manufacturing hub centered around machinery plants, metallurgy, and construction materials production.


Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Charentsavan experienced significant economic decline as many factories closed or operated at reduced capacity. The city's industrial landscape—featuring large manufacturing complexes, standardized housing developments, and distinctive Soviet urban planning—now stands as both a challenge and an opportunity.