アルメニアの洞窟・トップ5

Amberd is one of the rare witnesses of medieval Armenian military architecture. The fortress, built on a mountain spur, was part of a defense system that controlled the Plains of Ararat. In addition to the remains of the fortifications and the small Church of Our Lady (Surb Astvatsatsin), parts of a three-story palace, a bathhouse covered by two domes, a central heating system, the water supply system including cisterns, and a secret passage from the palace to the other buildings have been preserved.

Sometime during the beginning of the hikes we lost sight of the trailmarks, so keep an attentive eye on that. There's a part you have to go through the woods, keep your GPS on here, so you don't get too lost. You'll make it, though!

Amberd castle ruins are actually being taken care of by people and there's an entrance fee. Talk to Khachik, the caretaker and director of the ruins. He's a very kind soul who fought in the Artsakh war in 2020. Enjoy some ice cream and fresh Gata too

when crossing the river multiple times to stay on the trail, just stop and refresh yourself from the summer heat. This water is clear and has a fresh, almost sweet taste. It's so far off civilization, straight from the mountain, so there is no pollution.

This 17th century fortress served as headquarters for Davit Bek and Mkhitar Sparapet in their fight against Ottoman Empire and Persian Empire.

Also known as Mantash Fortress, this is well worth the steep climb from the main road. From the top it is possible, with binoculars, to see the walls of Aghchkaberd fortress on the opposite side of the Aghstev valley.

High on a really big hill between and deep valleys with great views in all directions. Impressive ruins in a large fortress in an almost impregnable location.