FORT AND CHURCH OF AMBERD

Standing on a triangular spur at the confluence of the Amberd and Arkachen rivers, this fort protects a small, much better preserved church. It is difficult to imagine these desolate places teeming with almost urban activity. Yet this was the case when the Pahlavuni dynasty built these monuments at ^{XIe siècle.} The site fell into the hands of the Seljuk Turks, and was taken over by Prince Zakaré in 1196 and bought by Prince Vatché in 1215. His successors, the Vatchoutians, after restoring the buildings damaged by the Mongol raids, established their residence in Amberd until ^{XIVe siècle.} All that remains are sections of wall made of large volcanic stones, flanked by partly ruined towers.

On the edge of the ravine, the small Katoghike church dates from 1026. Restored, it has regained its original drum, highlighted by pairs of half-columns that determine the umbrella design of the roof. It was once connected to the overhanging fortress, allowing a panoramic view of the canyon and beyond. A staircase of large black basalt blocks leads to the entrance of the fort, whose façade is pierced by windows. In the absence of natural defences, the north wing of the castle is reinforced with large, rounded towers. Below, remains of thermal baths indicate that the local lords were prepared to withstand a siege, even during the very harsh winters here. A tunnel in the mountain allowed a retreat by the river at the bottom of the canyon, whose access was protected by walls with visible remains below.