Smbataberd Fortress (V C.)

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.

Leave No Trace

  • Plan ahead & be prepared
  • Dispose the waste properly
  • Leave what you find
  • Minimize campfire impacts
  • Respect the wildlife
  • Be considerate of other visitors

Roads conditions

It is winter time! Check out road conditions before heading to the road! Beware of the snow & ice layer!

Vanadzor - Alaverdi section of the M6 Interstate highway stretching from Yerevan to Georgian border is temporarily closed. You can use Vanadzor-Stepanavan-Odzun-Alaverdi bypassing road.

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