Ajtala Fotress

The fortress stands on an elevated position surrounded by deep canyons, featuring stone walls constructed with blue basalt and lime mortar materials.

Built in the late 10th century by the Kyurikid dynasty, the fortress served as a strategic defensive structure for protecting northwestern regions of Armenia.

The Surp Astvatsatsin church within the complex contains medieval frescoes combining Armenian and Byzantine artistic elements created between 1205 and 1216.

The fortress remains open to visitors throughout the year, with special pilgrimage events occurring on September 20-21 that draw people from Armenia, Greece, and Georgia.

In the 18th century, Greek miners settled near the fortress and named it Meramani, leaving inscriptions on the walls that remain visible today.

Location: Akhtala

GPS coordinates: 41.15138,44.76389

Latest update: March 10, 2025 15:51