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 5^th 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 10^th-11^th centuries. Smbataberd is one of the largest and most inaccessible fortresses in Vayots Dzor.