Girl’s fortress

Region

Tavush

Distance from Yerevan

95.8 km

Type

Fortress/Castle

Girl’s fortress is one of the most remarkable castles in Armenia. The fortress and the whole province was called Kayen in the Middle Ages. It is located in Tavush province, in the valley of Aghstev river, on the top of the forested mountain. The fortress of Kayen was the seat of the governor of the province as an impeccable building. The walls of the fortress are fortified and protected with the rocky high cliffs of the mountains from all sides. Destroyed habitation, reservoirs, the church and bath are preserved in the fortress.

Interesting

facts about Girl’s fortress

Facts

There is a legend that Tamerlane, having learned that a beautiful girl lived here, ordered his soldiers to bring her to him. Three soldiers on behalf of the conqueror kidnapped the girl. A shepherd, seeing what is happening, followed them. When the soldiers fall asleep at night, the shepherd killed them and returned the girl. Tamerlane was furious and attacked Armenia. By the denunciation of one widow, he learnt about a flow of water, which supplied the fortress, blocked it and only then won. In confusion, the girl flung herself into the river. After this, the fortress was named Akhchka Berd, literally the Girl’s Fortress.

Weather in Tavush

The high season in Armenia lasts for a long time due to the pleasant climate conditions. Warm days in Armenia start in March and last until late autumn; winter is usually snowless and not long. The high precipitation season is variable. The tourist season for Girl's Fortress depends on the weather conditions.

Sights

near Girl’s fortress

Dilijan City

5 km

MATOSAVANK MONASTERY

6 km

Samson Monastery

6 km

Lake Parz

13 km

Girl’s fortress on the map on Armenia