Arin Berd: The Ancient Fortress of Yerevan

4.5 (13)

Explore the ancient Urartian fortress of Erebuni, the birthplace of Yerevan, with stunning views of the Ararat Plain.

Home
Armenia
Armavir
Arin Berd

Arin Berd, also known as Erebuni Fortress, is an ancient Urartian settlement in Yerevan, Armenia, dating back to 782 BC. Founded by King Argishti I, it served as a vital military and administrative center. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and enjoy panoramic views of Yerevan and the Ararat Plain.

A brief summary to Arin Berd

2 3rd St, Yerevan, Erebuni, AM

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a quieter experience.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven terrain.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on-site.
Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the site’s historical significance.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Erebuni Fortress

Erebuni Fortress: A Journey Through Time in Yerevan

Storage vessels

Ancient Echoes: The Storage Vessels of Yerevan

Granary

Granary: Yerevan's Agricultural Heart

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Arin Berd using public transport, start at Republic Square Metro Station in the city center. Take the metro to Erebuni station, a ride of approximately 15 minutes. From Erebuni station, take bus number 1 or 33 towards the Erebuni district and get off at the '3rd Street' bus stop, which is about a 5-minute ride. Walk straight for about 200 meters to reach Arin Berd. The metro fare is 100 AMD, and the bus fare is also 100 AMD.
Taxi

A taxi from Yerevan city center to Arin Berd typically costs between 600 to 1000 AMD. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available throughout Yerevan, and it's recommended to use licensed taxi companies. Be sure the taximeter is reset at the beginning of your ride. A standard fare for the first 5 kilometers is about $1.3 USD, with each additional kilometer costing about $0.25 USD.
Walking

From Erebuni Metro Station, you can walk to Arin Berd. Head south towards Yerevan's Erebuni district along Erebuni Street for about 15-20 minutes. Turn left onto 3rd Street and continue walking until you reach Arin Berd. The walk is roughly 1.5 kilometers and offers a glimpse into the local neighborhood.

Discover more about Arin Berd

Arin Berd, or Erebuni Fortress, is a captivating archaeological site located in the Erebuni district of Yerevan, Armenia. Established in 782 BC by Urartian King Argishti I, the fortress was a strategic military stronghold and one of the most important political and economic centers of the Kingdom of Van. The name Yerevan itself is derived from Erebuni. Perched atop Arin Berd hill, about 65 meters high, the fortress offers stunning views of Yerevan and the surrounding Ararat Plain. The site's elevation reaches 1,017 meters above sea level. Excavations in the 1950s unearthed remnants of the Erebuni fortress, including ancient walls, residential quarters, and storage areas. Artifacts discovered at Arin Berd showcase the architectural and artistic achievements of early Armenian civilization. Visitors can explore the ruins, including the temple dedicated to the God Khaldi, featuring a ziggurat-type tower. The fortress complex was divided into religious, palatial, and economic sections. The walls were adorned with murals depicting religious and secular scenes. Despite invasions over the centuries, the site was never truly abandoned, evolving into the city of Yerevan. Today, Arin Berd stands as a testament to Armenia's rich history, attracting historians, archaeologists, and tourists.

Explore the best of what Arin Berd has to offer

Explore Armenia's soul at the State Museum of Literature and Art after Yeghishe Charents, a cultural haven in the heart of Yerevan.

Discover the ancient Erebuni Fortress in Yerevan, a captivating blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking views that narrate Armenia's rich cultural heritage.