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Kachaghakaberd Fortress

Region

Artsakh

Distance from Yerevan

339.7 km

Type

Fortress/Castle

Between the villages of Patretsik and Kolatak, hidden atop an inaccessible cliff, lies a mysterious fortress—Kachaghakaberd, situated at an altitude of about 1,500 meters above sea level. It offers a striking view from the road connecting Stepanakert to Gandzasar. Although its history has not yet been fully studied, Kachaghakaberd carries with it not only stones from the depths of time but also oral legends. Its name has been linked to both Havkakhaghats and Sagsaghan. Some scholars identify it with the historic Fortress of Khachen. The fortress is naturally protected by steep and vertical cliffs—accessible only from the southwest, where a dangerous climb leads up to it. That section of the fortress also received additional man-made fortifications. Inside the fortress, remains of shelters and reservoirs have been preserved. Built upon a massive rock outcrop, the fortress stretches about 160 meters in length and 75 meters in width. Some sections of the walls have survived up to 1.7 meters in height, bearing witness to the former strength of this ancient stronghold.

Interesting

facts about Kachaghakaberd Fortress

Facts

The wall remnants, constructed from stones of various sizes and mortar, mainly date back to the 12th–13th centuries. One of the walls stretches from southeast to northeast, reaching 40 meters in length, ending in a circular tower.

According to another version of the origin of the name Kachaghakaberd (literally “Magpie Fortress”), a different story is told: When an invader besieged Kachaghakaberd and saw its impregnable position, he gave up the idea of direct assault. Instead, he waited, hoping the defenders would soon surrender. Months passed, but no one emerged from the fortress. One morning, a large flock of magpies appeared above the fortress. The invader sent soldiers to investigate. They reached the fortress and were met with a chilling sight—the defenders had died of starvation, lying motionless beneath the circling birds.

Weather in Artsakh

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 Kachaghakaberd Fortress depends on the weather conditions.