Ajtala Fotress, Medieval fortress in Akhtala, Armenia
Ajtala Fortress is a medieval defensive structure on elevated terrain in the Akhtala region, built with blue basalt stone and lime mortar. It sits within deep canyons that shape the landscape around its walls.
It was built in the late 10th century by the Kyurikid dynasty to defend northwestern Armenian regions. Later, in the 18th century, Greek miners settled nearby and left inscriptions on the walls.
The church inside the complex displays medieval wall paintings that blend Armenian and Byzantine artistic styles. Visitors can see these artworks today and observe how both cultural traditions merged in the same space.
The site is accessible year-round and draws visitors especially during the pilgrimage festival on September 20-21, when people arrive from Armenia, Greece, and Georgia. Its elevated location involves some climbing, but rewards visitors with wide views of the surroundings.
Visitors can still find Greek inscriptions on the walls left by miners who lived here long after the fortress was built. These marks show how people from different backgrounds used the site across the centuries.
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