Smbataberd Fortress

Smbataberd is a fortress built on a mountain summit south-east of the village of Artabuynk, from which the village of Yeghegis can also be seen. On three sides it is protected by steep mountain slopes, further reinforced with high, wide walls. It can be entered only from the north. The photograph shows the stone walls and round towers above a deep, wooded gorge.

Smbataberd is one of the oldest and largest fortresses of Vayots Dzor and Syunik. Until the 7th century it belonged to the princely house of the Vasakyans; in the 10th century it passed to the Bagratunis, and in the 13th century to the Orbelyans. It was probably named after Prince Smbat of Syunik, who ruled in the 10th century.

In the 16th century the Seljuks were long unable to take the fortress. They released a thirsty mule, which found the spring in a nearby meadow that supplied the fortress with water. The Seljuks blocked the spring, and a week later the fortress surrendered.