The 7th century fortress-castle of Dashtadem (in Armenian "Opposite the field"), also called the Kamsarakan Fortress, is located on the southern slope of Mount Arteni, in the village of Dashtadem in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. The village of Dashtadem is located 5 km south of the city of Talin, 52 km from the capitol of the province, the city of Ashtarak.

The fortress of Dashtadem is one of the best preserved fortresses that exist on Armenian soil to this day. "Impressive" is the word that comes to mind when describing this castle, which stands proudly and solemnly on the outskirts of the village of Dashtadem. Coming here, it is impossible not to feel the Armenian pride for our great past!

The long fortress walls are octagonal in shape and separate the fortress from the outside world. As soon as you cross the arched gates and enter the territory of the fortress, you will see the small 10th century Church of St. Sarkis, as well as the several dilapidated buildings, but your eye will always be drawn to the majestic octagonal building of the castle, beckoning with the warm tones of Armenian tuffa stones.

Fortified with towers, this three-story structure is built with cleanly hewn stones. The hall is vaulted, the walls are plastered inside, and the floor is thick with plates. There were no windows, and lighting was carried out by means of the light openings in the ceiling.

In addition to the incomparable surroundings, this unique building is surrounded by a mysterious atmosphere that gives it a certain spirit of mysticism. The fortress itself raises many questions from historians, and many details remain partially or completely unanswered. Written sources do not contain information about the time of construction of the complex of fortifications. The most ancient fortification is the castle-citadel. It is assumed that the castle was erected by the Armenian dynasty of Kamsarakans in the 7th century, on the foundation of a structure of the Urartian period.

In 2005-07, the citadel and the outer fortress walls were partially restored with the participation of the Milan Center for the Study of Armenian Culture. Now the reconstruction and excavation work continues, so - perhaps in the near future the Dashtadem will surprise us with new discoveries.

Contact Phoenix Tour today - and we will arrange for you an easy trip to see the Dashtadem Castle, that will fit perfectly within your budget and given timeline. For more information, please contact us at info@phoenixtour.am