Black Fortress, Gegharkunik Travel Guide

Rising on a hill overlooking Gyumri, the Black Fortress, locally known as Sev Berd, stands as a powerful reminder of Armenia's complex history. Built by the Russian Empire in the 1830s, following the Russo-Persian War, its purpose was to defend against potential conflicts with Turkey. The fortress gets its name from the black volcanic tuff stone used in its construction, giving it a brooding and formidable presence.Strategically positioned near the Turkish border, the Black Fortress was a vital military outpost. Over the years, it evolved from a defensive structure to an artillery depot and later a military prison. The fortress never faced a siege but played a strategic role in victories against the Turks.The fortress is a circular structure with a 360-degree design. Underground passages once connected it to other fortifications, including the Red Fortress and the area where the Mother Armenia monument now stands. Inside, a 30-meter-deep well provided water for the soldiers stationed there. Visitors can see engravings on the walls left by Russian soldiers, marking their names and hometowns.In 2012, the Balasanyan family purchased the Black Fortress with plans to transform it into a tourist attraction. Today, the fortress is a cultural center hosting concerts and performances. From the ramparts, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Gyumri and the surrounding landscape, including the Akhuryan River and the Mother Armenia statue on a neighboring hill.