Ready to conquer new heights and enjoy stunning views from medieval Armenian fortresses?

01

Amberd Fortress

Don’t miss the opportunity to take impressive pictures from the largest standing fortress in Armenia. Amberd is located on the slopes of Mount Aragats, and it takes just an hour's drive from Yerevan to get there. Built in the 10th century, it faced numerous attacks and invasions but still stands to impress its visitors.

02

Bjni Fortress

Are you looking for a quick getaway in the countryside? If yes, visiting the Bjni Fortress should be your top choice. Located in the Kotayk region, you will only need 40 minutes to get to Bjni village from Yerevan. Before you climb the hill to reach the fortress, walk around the village and visit St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church.

03

Smbataberd Fortress

Fortresses in Armenia have always witnessed our history in the making and even played decisive roles in the fate of the Armenian nation. Smbataberd is no exception. Existing from the 5th century, it had a definite protective purpose in medieval times. It is located in the Vayots Dzor region, just a 2.5-hour drive from Yerevan. Hike to Smbataberd Fortress from Artabuynk and Yeghegis villages.

04

​​Erebuni Fortress

To uncover the Urartian Heritage in Armenia, visit the Erebuni Fortress and the adjacent museum, where the local guides will gladly take you through the pages of our history. Located in the capital Yerevan, the Erebuni Fortress is very easy to reach. The construction of the fortress dates back to 782 BC, and it was the second-largest Urartian fortification after the central hub in Van.

05

Lori Fortress

The historical architectural gem of the Lori region – the Lori Fortress, should be the next point on your list. While visiting the Lori Fortress, you will be amazed at the excellence of fortress architecture and how medieval architects managed to find a perfect spot for it.

06

Dashtadem Fortress

Visit Dashtadem Fortress to admire the eye-catching sceneries opening up from fortress walls and towers. Located in Aragatsotn province, Dashtadem is distinguished from the other fortresses by its position. Compared to other strongholds in Armenia, Dashtadem occupies more of a flat area than a rock cliff or top of a mountain. Nevertheless, the fort is one of the well-preserved ones in Armenia.

07

Baghaberd Fortress

One of the dozens of fortresses in the Syunik region, Baghaberd was famous for its impregnable positioning. The fortress existed starting from the 4th century and was used until the late 1800s. Visiting Baghaberd Fortress will once again impress you with the architectural solutions used for constructing forts and strongholds.

08

Sev Berd

If you find yourself in Gyumri and are looking for more things to discover, then Sev Berd is the place to go! Just a few minutes’ drive from Gyumri city center, Sev Berd is a unique example of stronghold architecture. It was built at the beginning of the 19th century using black tufa stone – the name itself, “Sev,” means black in Armenian.

09

Kakavaberd Fortress

Can architecture blend with nature? Well, it can since Kakavaberd is a vivid example of it. Located in the territory of Khosrov State Reserve, Kakavaberd is just a half-hour drive from Yerevan. It requires a hike through the forests, ensuring scenic views.

10

Berdavan Fortress

Berdavan, a must-see fort in Tavush province, rounds out our list of top fortresses in Armenia. Located on a hilltop, it was the primary defensive structure of the 10-11th century. Currently standing 17th-century fortifications saw some renovations in the late Soviet era, making the fortress more welcoming to visitors.