9 Historic Fortresses You Must Visit in Armenia
Amberd, Aragatsotn
Standing before the mighty fortress of Amberd, you’ll liken it to a proud and indomitable elder subdued only by the passage of time. Walking toward the fortress, its presence becomes even more tangible—an awe-inspiring sight. Known as a fortress-castle, Amberd gained prominence during the Roman era and continued to flourish in later centuries. Built in the 7th century during the Kamsarakan dynasty, it served as the summer residence for Armenian kings and nobles. Archaeological findings hint at the once-lavish decor of the castle, adding to its historical allure.
Halidzor Fortress, Syunik
Journeying deeper into Syunik unveils Halidzor Fortress, surrounded by stunning landscapes that make the trip unforgettable. Constructed in the first half of the 17th century as a monastery, it was later converted into a fortress by David Bek in the 18th century. The fortress became the center of Syunik’s liberation struggle, with its unassailable location playing a key role. Despite multiple Persian sieges, Halidzor resisted until betrayal revealed the underground water source, forcing its defenders to abandon the fort.
Smbataberd, Vayots Dzor
Known as the “Great Wall of Armenia,” Smbataberd is one of Vayots Dzor’s most remarkable fortresses. Its history dates back as early as the 5th century, with records of fierce battles against Persian forces. The fortress was likely a strategic military hub for the Syunik rulers, later fortified during the Orbelians’ rule. Although its true name is uncertain, locals attribute the name “Smbataberd” to a nearby burial site of Prince Smbat Orbelian, suggesting a connection to his legacy.
Kachaghakaberd, Artsakh
When travel to Artsakh becomes possible again, Kachaghakaberd is a must-visit. Perched on a forested hilltop, this fortress appears small from afar but reveals its expansive layout upon closer inspection. Its hidden passageways and defense systems, including rock-hewn shelters and arrow slits, protected villagers during invasions. Legends of its impenetrability abound, with the name “Kachaghakaberd” (Magpie Fortress) reflecting its seemingly exclusive accessibility to birds.
Tapi Fortress, Ararat
Located near Urtsadzor village, Tapi Fortress, also known as the Gevorg Marzpetuni Fortress, is a masterpiece of 10th-century Armenian military architecture. Surrounded by rectangular walls with round corner towers, it features residential and economic structures built between the 10th and 13th centuries, as well as a 12th-century church adorned with unique carvings and inscriptions.
Mantashaberd, Tavush
Nestled in the Tavush region, Mantashaberd, also called Kara Kala (Black Fortress), has an intriguing legend tied to its name. The story speaks of a determined princess who built a fortress to defend herself against unrelenting suitors, while one of them, Prince Mantash, constructed a rival fortress nearby. Despite initial conflicts, their tale ends in reconciliation, symbolized by the construction of a shared bathhouse by the Agstev River.
Berdavan Fortress, Tavush
Continuing in Tavush, Berdavan Fortress, also known as Kalyinjakar, is among Armenia’s most impressive medieval fortifications. Located near the Azerbaijani border, it boasts a rich collection of khachkars (cross-stones) and a strikingly preserved structure. First mentioned in 1123, the fortress underwent renovations during the late Middle Ages, ensuring its survival for centuries.
Meghri Fortress, Syunik
Meghri Fortress stands out as the only defensive structure in Armenian medieval architecture designed to counter firearms. Reconstructed in the early 18th century, the fortress comprises six standalone towers on a mountain ridge, each built with granite and reinforced with oak to withstand earthquakes. The towers feature firing points, enabling defenders to repel invaders effectively.
Dashtadem Fortress, Aragatsotn
Unlike other fortresses relying on natural defenses, Dashtadem Fortress depended solely on its formidable walls. Thought to date back to the Urartian period, its construction evolved over time, with significant contributions from the Kamsarakan dynasty in the 5th to 7th centuries. Its unique design represents a classic feudal castle with comprehensive defensive structures.
