Baghaberd Fortress

Baghaberd is a ruined medieval fortress set on a steep, rocky height above the Voghji River near Kapan. Its origins are ancient, but it rose to prominence as one of the principal strongholds and at times a capital of the Kingdom of Syunik. Protected by sheer cliffs on several sides, it was long considered nearly impregnable. In 1170 it finally fell to Seljuk forces, a defeat that also led to the loss of the great library transferred there from Tatev. Today the broken walls and towers cling to the heights, offering a vivid sense of medieval frontier defense and commanding views over the surrounding gorges and mountains of southern Syunik.