Dashtadem Fortress, Medieval fortress in Aragatsotn Province, Armenia
Dashtadem Fortress is a medieval fortification in Aragatsotn Province featuring an octagonal defensive wall arranged with eight bastions, seven of them polygonal and one semicircular facing the north. This wall design forms the foundation of the entire structure.
Construction took place from the 5th through the 19th century, with the main keep built between the 9th and 10th centuries. This extended building period shows how the site was used and expanded across different eras.
The stone lions carved above the arched entrance tell you something about how medieval Armenian builders decorated their fortifications. These sculptures reflect the pride craftspeople put into making defensive structures that were also visually impressive.
The fortress sits approximately 73 kilometers from Yerevan and is accessible via the Talin-Qarakert road. Keep in mind that restoration work is ongoing, which may affect access to certain areas during your visit.
Underground cisterns and tunnels lie beneath the four semicircular towers, revealing how water supply and escape routes were built into the original design. These hidden passages are among the most fascinating elements of the entire complex.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
