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Kakavaberd Fortress: A Sky-High Sentinel of Armenian History

Explore Kakavaberd Fortress: a medieval Armenian marvel with stunning views and a rich history nestled in the Khosrov Forest State Reserve.

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Kakavaberd Fortress, also known as Geghi Berd, is a medieval Armenian fortress dramatically perched on a ridge within the Khosrov Forest State Reserve. Its well-preserved walls and towers offer a glimpse into Armenia's rich past and provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Kakavaberd (Keghi fortress)

  • Kakavaberd, AM
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rugged terrain around the fortress.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited in the area.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Yerevan, take the M1 highway towards Dilijan. After approximately 30 kilometers, take the exit towards Kotayk region and follow the local roads towards Keghi. The fortress is located about 7 kilometers from the main road. Upon reaching Keghi village, ask locals for directions to Kakavaberd; it is a short hike up the hill from the village. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the final part of the journey.

  • Public Transport

    Take a marshrutka (minibus) from Yerevan to Hrazdan. Once you reach Hrazdan, transfer to another marshrutka heading towards Keghi. Inform the driver of your destination, Kakavaberd, and they will drop you off at the closest point. From there, you will need to walk approximately 2 kilometers uphill to reach the fortress. Ensure you have cash, as fares are typically around 500 AMD.

  • Walking

    From Keghi village center, head towards the hillside. Follow the path leading upwards; it is well-trodden by locals visiting the fortress. The hike is approximately 6-7 km and can take 1.5 to 2 hours one way, with a moderate incline. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the way.

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Discover more about Kakavaberd (Keghi fortress)

Kakavaberd Fortress, also called Geghi Berd, stands as a testament to Armenia's enduring history and strategic military architecture. Located within the Khosrov Forest State Reserve in the Ararat Province, the fortress occupies a commanding position on a ridge overlooking the Azat River gorge, approximately 43km from Yerevan. The fortress's location, 1,516 meters above sea level, made it a naturally defensible site. First mentioned in historical records from the 9th-10th centuries by Hovhannes Draskhanakerttsi, Kakavaberd was initially controlled by the Bagratuni noble family. Throughout its history, the fortress has been a site of conflict and refuge, including an attack by the Arab commander Beshir in 924, who was subsequently defeated by Gevorg Marzpetuni. The fortress later passed to the Pahlavuni family in the 11th century and the Proshyan family in the 12th-13th centuries. Kakavaberd was last mentioned in 1224 when Ivane Mkhargrdzeli sought shelter there after a battle near Garni. The fortress is inaccessible from three sides due to steep terrain. The walls, constructed with rough stones and lime mortar, are 2-2.5 meters thick and 8-10 meters tall, with towers rising even higher. Within the fortress, visitors can explore the ruins of a church and other structures, offering a tangible connection to the past. According to legend, the name “Kakavaberd” comes from the Armenian word for “partridge” (“kakav”), inspired by a tale of a priest who transformed prisoners into birds.

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