Smbataberd Fortress

The defensive stronghold of Smbataberd, also known as the Fortress of Tsakhats Kar, stands on the eastern edge of the village of Artabuynk in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor province, rising above the western outskirts of Yeghegis. Steep gorges flank it on the east and south—those of the Yeghegis River—and to the west lies the valley of Artabuynk.

Smbataberd is one of the largest fortresses in both Vayots Dzor and the broader region of Syunik. Chronicles preserve accounts of brutal conflict between Armenians and Persians in the 5th century—the Battle of Avarayr—though the fortress likely predates this period. A branch of the Syunik princely house, the Vasakyans, transformed Smbataberd into a military base. Under the rule of the Orbelians, the fortress was further expanded and fortified.

The origin of the name “Smbataberd” is uncertain. Local tradition holds that it commemorates a knight of the Orbelian dynasty buried near Yeghegis, who rebuilt and renamed the fortress. More plausibly, it was named after Prince Smbat of Syunik, who lived in the 10th century.

Designed for long-term defense, the fortress was constructed according to the principles of medieval military architecture. Its total length stretches nearly a kilometer. A dividing wall splits it into northern and southern sections, each equipped with its own acropolis. Within both parts, archaeologists have found remnants of barracks and cisterns. The main gates—crafted from dressed basalt—were situated on the northeast, northwest, and northern sides.

The water supply came from springs near Tsakhats Kar. Smbataberd served as the primary military bastion for the fortified town of Yeghegis and surrounding areas. The fortress is shielded on two sides by deep ravines and on a third by a sheer cliff. Only from the north can one approach it, along a steep, winding trail carved into the mountainside.

To reach Smbataberd, one must travel roughly 79 kilometers from Yerevan, a drive of about three hours. Public transport travelers can take bus No. 557 from the Kilikia Bus Station to the spa town of Jermuk, then hire a taxi to reach the trailhead. From there, a well-worn path leads upward to the fortress, a climb of about an hour. Though the ascent is steady, the sweeping mountain views more than reward the effort.