Amberd: Fortress in the Clouds

Amberd sits 2,300 meters above sea level in the clouds.

The tenth-century fortress stands where two rivers meet in Aragatsotn.

Roughly hewn basalt blocks form the castle walls with mortar.

The castle ruins comprised 1,500 square metres.

Vahram Pahlavouni rebuilt the fortress 4 centuries after its founding.

Prince Vahram added a bath house. Unusual for soldiers.

Hypocaust heating warmed the bath house floors using fire underneath.

Vahram built the Church of Surb Astvatsatsin in 1026.

Amberd fortress ruins overlook the Armenian countryside from Mount Aragats.

Mongols captured and destroyed the fortress in the year 1236.

Europa Nostra listed Amberd among 7 most endangered monuments recently.