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Bjni Fortress: A Medieval Armenian Stronghold

Explore Bjni Fortress, a medieval Armenian stronghold with panoramic views and rich history, dating back to the 9th century.

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Bjni Fortress, located in the village of Bjni, Armenia, is a medieval fortress dating back to the 9th-10th centuries. Built by the Pahlavuni princes of the Bagratuni dynasty, it stands atop a mesa, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Hrazdan River Valley. The fortress ruins evoke a sense of history and Armenian resilience.

A brief summary to Bjni Fortress

  • FM63+6JV, Bjni, 2504, AM

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the fortress can be steep and rocky.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
  • Consider hiring a local guide in the village to learn more about the fortress's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Yerevan, take the line 253 Minibus from Yerevan Southern bus station to Argel. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes and costs $6–9. From the main stop in Bjni, the fortress is about a 15-minute walk northeast on the main road, following signs to the fortress.

  • Taxi

    From Yerevan, a taxi ride to Bjni Fortress takes about 41 minutes and costs approximately $13–$17. Taxis are readily available in Yerevan and can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi app. Ensure the taxi fare calculator is visible to avoid overcharging.

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Discover more about Bjni Fortress

Bjni Fortress, situated in the village of Bjni in Armenia's Kotayk Province, is a remarkable example of medieval Armenian military architecture. Constructed between the 9th and 10th centuries by the Pahlavuni princes, who were part of the Bagratuni dynasty, the fortress served as a primary fortification for the Nig province. The location of the fortress is on top of a mesa that divides the village almost in half. Strategically positioned on a high cliff, the fortress is naturally defended by rocks on the south, east, and partially on the west. The north and west sides were fortified with pyramid-like walls, now partially ruined. Within the fortress, visitors can explore the remains of various structures, including residences, a church, reservoirs, and defensive walls designed to withstand long sieges. The Church of St. Astvatsatsin, dating back to the 11th century, is a prominent building known for its architecture. Bjni was one of the important centers of Armenian calligraphy in the Middle Ages. According to legend, the Fortress and Monastery were connected by secret subterranean roads. During the 11th century, Vasak Pahlavuni renovated the fortress and surrounded it with walls. Despite damage over the centuries, including invasions by Arabs, Byzantines, and Mongols, Bjni Fortress remains a significant historical site, offering insights into Armenia's past.

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