Location: Artabuynk, Vayots Dzor
Distance from Yerevan: 140km/2h
Establishment: V c.
The defensive complex Smbataberd (or Tsakhats Kar fortress) lies to the south-east of Artabuink village (old Yeghegis). The complex is surrounded by Yeghegis Gorge in the East & South, and Artabuynk Gorge in the West.
Smbataberd probably existed before the 5th century and was used as a power base for the Vasakian Dynasty, then it was reinforced during the reign of the Orbelians. The Castle dates to the 10th-11th centuries. Smbataberd is one of the largest and most inaccessible fortresses in Vayots Dzor.