Shahumian region, situated in the Northern part of RMK, was occupied by Azerbaijan in June 15, 1992 in the result of which all the population was deported. Before the occupation Shahumian consisted of 187 villages with the total population of about 22000 people. The Shahumian region is rich in the first Christian monuments of Artsakh- Glkhavank, Orek, etc. Mesrop Mashtots was the first to open schools here. Not far from Verinshen village is preserved a monument in honour of this event: a sacred place of Gir Khach (the Cross of written language). Valuable monuments are presented by a number of crosstones, monasteries, bridges, palaces as well as iron and arms workshops, ancient mills and apartment houses.

GYULISTAN FORTRESS
Gyulistan Fortress is one of the most important of the defense constructions of Artsakh during the last 10 centuries. It had been the basic citadel of the capital of one of the five principalities (melikutyuns) of Artsakh. The Gyulistan fortress is situated on the inaccessible hill to the south spurs of Mrov Mountain. Gyuliastan fortress is well-known as the place where in 1813 the Gyulistan Peace traty between Rusiia and Persia has been signed, according to which Karabakh formed a part of Russian Empire. Since 1994 the fortress as well as the whole Shahumian region is occupied by the Azeri troops that prevent the repatriation of the population there and are illegally managing the citizen’s property.

GETASHEN
This village, rich in its heroic past, is famous since early middle age. Numerous churches, villages, medieval cemeteries with hundred of cross stones, many samples of civil architecture compose the rich heritage of its people, preserved till nowadays. Before the deportation of the native population here were well preserved dozens of traditional living houses constructed in 18-19th centuries. The wooden lace of balconies adds additional charm to these samples of folk creations of Northern Artsakh people.