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Girl’s fortress

Region

Tavush

Distance from Yerevan

95.8 km

Type

Fortress/Castle

Aghjkaberd is located in the Aghstev River valley, about 16 km southwest of Ijevan city. The fortress was also known as Kayen and served as the residence of the local lords of the region. It is situated on a forested mountain peak, surrounded by high cliffs on all sides. The fortress was further fortified with artificial, pyramid-shaped walls, and a small guardhouse was located at the entrance. All structures within the fortress were built from bluish-hued basalt. Remains of residential buildings, water reservoirs, a bathhouse, and a church have been preserved. The church, which has a cross-shaped layout, dates back to the 10th–11th centuries.

Interesting

facts about Girl’s fortress

Facts

Aghjkaberd had great strategic significance as a defensive structure, occupying an inaccessible and impregnable position.

According to one legend, a beautiful girl lived in the fortress. Upon hearing of her beauty, Timur sent soldiers to bring her to him. Three soldiers captured the girl, but a shepherd witnessed the event. He followed them, killed the soldiers, and rescued the girl, bringing her back to the fortress. Furious, Timur attacked the fortress and, with the help of an old woman who betrayed the defenders, cut off the water supply, eventually defeating the Armenian defenders. Seeing this tragedy, the girl threw herself off the fortress walls into the river. After this event, the fortress became known as Aghjkaberd (""Maiden's Fortress"").

From a historical and archaeological perspective, the fortress is of great value, as its structural integrity has been well preserved."

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.

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Samson Monastery

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Lake Parz

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