Smbataberd Fortress, also known as the Fortress of Tsakhats Kar, crowns a precipitous hilltop on the eastern edge of Artabuynk village in Armenia's Vayots Dzor province, commanding views above Yeghegis. Possibly dating from the 5th century but more likely built during the 9th to 11th centuries, the fortress was transformed into a military powerhouse by the Vasakyan branch of the Syunik princely house and later expanded under the Orbelians. Dramatically shielded by deep ravines on three sides and a sheer cliff on a fourth, the fortress's singular northern approach follows a steep, winding trail carved into the mountainside. The site contains ruins of multiple buildings, ancient water supply systems of clay pipes and pools, and serves as the primary military bastion for the fortified area surrounding Yeghegis.
