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Lori Castle: A Medieval Fortress

Explore the ruins of Lori Castle near Vanadzor, a medieval fortress offering history and panoramic views of the Armenian landscape.

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Lori Castle, also known as Lori Berd, is a medieval Armenian fortress located near Stepanavan, offering a glimpse into Armenia's feudal past. Founded in the 11th century, the castle was strategically positioned along a trade route and served as a significant political and cultural center. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

A brief summary to Lori Castle

  • Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fortress is uneven and requires some walking.
  • Visit during the spring or autumn for comfortable weather and clear skies.
  • Check the opening hours before you go, typically 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Vanadzor city center, take a taxi to Lori Castle. The ride is approximately 30-40 minutes. Taxis are readily available in Vanadzor, or you can use a ride-hailing app like GG Taxi or Yandex Taxi. Expect to pay around 2,500-4,000 AMD for the trip.

  • Public Transport

    Take a minibus from Vanadzor to Stepanavan. From Stepanavan, you can hire a taxi to Lori Castle for approximately 500 AMD. The minibus from Vanadzor to Stepanavan costs around 700 AMD.

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Discover more about Lori Castle

Lori Castle, or Lori Berd, is a captivating medieval fortress nestled between the Dzoraget and Miskhana rivers, near the town of Stepanavan. Founded in the early 11th century by David Anhoghin, it served as a vital point along a northern trade route connecting major cities like Ani, Dvin, and Tbilisi. The fortress and its settlement thrived, housing around 10,000 residents between the 11th and 13th centuries. Lori Castle's history is rich and varied. It was once the capital of the Kyurikyan Kingdom and later fell under Georgian, Turkish, and Persian control. The Mongols captured and nearly destroyed it in 1236, but it was subsequently rebuilt. Over time, the castle lost its military importance and became a refuge for displaced people before being abandoned. Today, excavations have revealed tools, pottery, coins, and imported goods, confirming its role as a crossroads of international trade. The castle's architecture is also noteworthy, situated on a rocky plateau almost 1500 meters above sea level and surrounded by a 214-meter-long wall. Inside the fortress, visitors can explore the remains of a palace, baths, chapels, and private apartments.

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