Castles And Fortresses Of Lori

Vasil Tairov was an Armenian wealthy winemaker who built a summer house in Vanadzor in 1895. It was turned into a sanatorium in the Soviet era. The building was renovated and rebuilt around 20 years ago, and currently it is the residence of the Gugarats Diocese. While visiting the residence, you will notice its different and interesting architectural design, which is not so common in Armenia nowadays. The residence has a cozy and beautiful garden where you can have a short break and enjoy the environment. You will also see many khachkars dating back to the 7th-8th centuries around the building.

Lori Berd fortress is an 11th-century Armenian fortress located within 15 minutes drive from Stepanavan. The fortress became the capital of the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget in the 11th century. The choice of the place for the foundation and the dislocation of its compound parts were made like the capital of the Bagratid’s kingdom- Ani. The town stretched on a mountain plateau of almost triangle shape. During your visit, you will wander the territory of the fortress and see the ruins of various buildings, including two bathhouses, khachkars, an ancient cemetery, premises, etc.

PS The fortress is closed on Mondays

Kayan fortress was one of the strongholds of defense in medieval Armenia, built in the 13th century. It had an important role especially for the defense of Haghpat Monastery. Located on the top of the hill, the fortress is perfect for a short and not very difficult hiking. Starting at the foot of Haghpat near the old stone bridge, the path will gradually ascend. You will need to climb a bit, when you are close to the fortress. At the top of the hill you will see the ruined walls and a small church in the middle of the fortress. Though the fortress is in ruins, the walk is well worth and gives wonderful views of the Debed Valley. You can have your lunch in the rest zones near the starting/ending point, either before or after the hike.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Length of hiking: 1.2 km

Elevation gain/loss: 300m/300m

Degree of hiking difficulty: easy

Michael Aramyants was a famous Armenian entrepreneur and activist of the 20th century. While traveling in Switzerland, Aramyants saw a very beautiful castle, which he liked so much that recreated a similar one in Akhtala. The castle’s territory is 32ha. The first tennis court in Armenia was just in this castle. Aramyants organized meetings and discussions with many prominent figures in Armenia. Unfortunately, the castle is not in its best condition nowadays you will still admire the unique architecture and have a gentle walk in the territory of the castle surrounded by tall trees.

Akhtala fortress was built in the 10th century. The deep and rocky canyons around the fortress used to serve as a natural barrier. The considerably accessible areas were protected by towers and gates. The entrance was protected by a three-floor conical tower, which had a circular layout, and gates. You will notice the fortress and its complex architectural solutions from the road before you reach there. As you go through the fortress you will admire the magnificent Monastery of Akhtala, which is perhaps one of the most outstanding architectural structures in all Armenia. The monastery was built in the times of the Armenian Renaissance. The monastery’s main church is covered with frescoes which will astonish each visitor. You can spend the rest of your day at Nurik center next to the fortress.