Lori Castle: A Medieval Armenian Fortress
Explore Lori Castle, a medieval fortress in Armenia, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history, architecture, and strategic importance.
Lori Castle, or Lori Berd, is an 11th-century Armenian fortress that offers a glimpse into the region's medieval past. Founded by David Anhoghin, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Tashir-Dzoraget. The fortress is strategically positioned on a mountainous plateau, approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, at the intersection of the Urut and Dzoraget rivers. During its peak between the 11th and 13th centuries, Lori Berd was a bustling hub with a population of around 10,000. It was a significant trading center, connecting major cities like Ani, Dvin, Dmanisi, and Tbilisi. The fortress played a crucial role in regional politics and defense, witnessing sieges and changes in power. The fortress features impressive stone walls, round and square towers, and a moat, showcasing the architectural and defensive strategies of the time. Inside the fortress, remnants of a palace, bathhouses, chapels, and residential apartments can still be seen. An underpass to the Miskhana River provided a vital water source. Excavations have revealed tools, pottery, coins, and imported goods, indicating the fortress's role in international trade. Today, Lori Castle invites visitors to explore its historic grounds and imagine life within its walls. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fortress can be uneven and rocky.
- Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the spectacular views from the castle, especially during sunset.
A brief summary to Lori Castle
- 52 Tigran Mets Ave, Վանաձոր, AM
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Vanadzor city center, take a local bus or marshrutka (minibus) heading towards the Lori Berd village. Buses to Lori Berd are infrequent, so check the schedules at the Vanadzor bus station. The journey to Lori Berd village takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From the village center, it's a 15-20 minute walk uphill to the castle entrance. The bus fare is around 200-300 AMD.
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Taxi
From Vanadzor city center, a taxi ride to Lori Castle takes about 20-30 minutes. Taxis are readily available in Vanadzor; you can hail one on the street or use a ride-hailing app. A one-way taxi fare typically costs between 1500-2500 AMD, depending on the time of day and traffic.
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Walking
For those already in Lori Berd village, the castle is accessible by foot. From the village center, follow the road leading uphill towards the fortress. The walk is approximately 1.5-2 kilometers and takes about 15-20 minutes. Be prepared for a moderately steep incline. There are no entrance fees to access the village or walk to the castle.
