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Lori Castle: A Medieval Armenian Fortress

Explore Lori Castle: An ancient Armenian fortress offering a glimpse into medieval history and stunning views near Vanadzor.

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Lori Castle, also known as Lori Berd, is an 11th-century fortress located near the city of Vanadzor in Armenia’s Lori Province. Built by King David I Anhoghin, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget and a vital trading hub. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Armenia's rich medieval history and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

A brief summary to Lori Castle

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain within the fortress can be uneven and rocky.
  • Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the spectacular views, especially during sunset.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history of Lori Castle.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Vanadzor city center, take a local bus towards Stepanavan. Buses are frequent and cost approximately 200 AMD. Ask the driver to drop you off near Lori Berd village. From there, it's a 15-minute walk uphill to the fortress entrance.

  • Taxi

    From Vanadzor city center, a taxi to Lori Castle costs around 1,500-2,000 AMD. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or booked through a local taxi app.

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Discover more about Lori Castle

Lori Castle, or Lori Berd, is a captivating medieval fortress located 5 km from Stepanavan, nestled in the Lori Province of Armenia. Founded in the 11th century by King David Anhoghin (1005-1020), it became the capital of the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget in 1065. The fortress occupies a strategic position on a plateau 1,490 meters above sea level, at the intersection of the Dzoraget and Miskhana rivers, offering natural defenses on three sides. During its peak between the 11th and 13th centuries, Lori Berd was a significant political and commercial center, home to over 10,000 residents. Positioned along a key northern trade route, it connected major cities like Ani, Dvin, Dmanisi, and Tbilisi. The fortress saw numerous rulers, including the Seljuks, Georgians, and Armenian Zakaryan family. In 1236, Mongol forces destroyed the city, though it was later rebuilt and remained a vital military stronghold until the 18th century. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the fortress, including portions of the fortification walls, bathhouses, and a civic building that was later converted into a church. Excavations have revealed fascinating artifacts, such as tools, ornaments, ceramics and coins, indicating the region's extensive trade connections. The site also features a medieval bridge, showcasing Armenian engineering from the 11th-12th centuries. Restoration works are ongoing to preserve this important historical site.

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