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Ancient fortresses in Armenia
The evidence of ancient history of Armenia are numerous buildings, churches, monasteries and of course the fortresses. Many of them were destroyed by the enemy, or earthquakes, but there are several fortresses survived, which are an important part of the history of Armenia. Tourists who are interested in Armenia’s history should visit the ancient fortresses in Armenia and learn the history.
AMBERD FORTRESS
Amberd Fortress (8th century) is located on the slopes of Mount Aragats, 50 km from Yerevan. The fortress was built to protect the land from the attacks of enemies and served centuries defending the people against the Romans, Byzantines, Persians and Turks.
The fortress is impregnable. The castle was built on a promontory, surrounded by deep gorges and precipices. The fortress was built of large basalt blocks and thanks to the stones and the powerful fortress constructions the fortress preserved to this day.
In terms of architecture the castle is simple, but in those days, the main issue in the construction of the fortress was not beauty but safety and security and the Amberd perfectly played its role.
In the 70’s began the strengthening the walls of the fortress and the church, located on the grounds of the castle. Amberd Fortress is one of the most famous sights in Armenia and it is necessary to visit in the first place.
EREBUNI FORTRESS
Erebuni Fortress is the oldest castles survived to our days. Erebuni Fortress, dating back to 782 was the beginning of modern Yerevan, but it took a long time. Erebuni Fortress was founded by the king of Urartu Argishti, who left written testimony of building the castle. The inscription says “God’s greatness Khaldi Argishti, son of Menua, built this powerful fortress, gave it the name Erebuni for the power Biainili country and to intimidate the enemy countries. The greatness of God Khaldi, son of Menua, the mighty king, king (of the country) Biainili, the ruller of Tushpa city. “
At the time, the fortress (and later the same city Erebuni) was of great strategic military importance and had a strong garrison.
The walls of the fortress of Erebuni located on Arin Berd, in the territory of Erebuni Museum. The fortress has not yet been fully explored and undoubtedly has secrets of the city’s history. Location and strong walls protected the city from attacks. According to the architecture of the fortress of Erebuni also simple and the most important part for city protection.
On the territory of the fortress were the palace, economic and religious buildings, which, however, are not preserved. The museum presents the findings of Erebuni excavation of the fortress; Urartu era; 23 cuneiform tablets, weapons, jewelry made of gold and silver, statues, bronze ware, tableware, etc.
HALIDZOR FORTRESS
Halidzor Fortress is situated on the territory of Syunik region, 310 km from Yerevan. The fortress was built in the 17th century on the right bank of the river Voghji. The original castle was a monastery, which subsequently completed and turned into a fortress for protection. Thanks to its powerful walls and impregnable position of the Armenian forces was concentrated in the fortress Halidzor. The history of fortress was connected with the history of David Beck, the commander who resisted the attack of the Turkish army.
Now only the walls of the fortress and basilica church are well preserved. Castle, church and nature in general fascinates with its beauty and mystery and is one of the places that are worth visiting.
SMBATABERD FORTRESS
Fortress Smbataberd is located at a distance of 140 from Yerevan, in Vayots Dzor region. On three sides the castle is surrounded by steep cliffs and gorges. Entrance to the fortress is located on the north side. The massive gates are guarded by archers, who were always ready to meet the enemy.
The fortress was built in the 5th century, but there are suggestions that the part of the fortress was built earlier, and in the 5th century it was simply strengthened and turned into a military base.
Fortress fits for purpose: strong powerful walls, gates built of basalt. The fortress was divided into two parts by a partition, and each of them had an acropolis.
The powerful walls of fortress still stand but the castle was restored in 2006. Today Smbataberd Castle is one of the most popular sights in Armenia, which is worth a visit.
To visit all these fortresses, you can book a tour, arrange walking tours or rent a car in Yerevan and travel in comfort.
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