Perched atop the 65-meter-tall Arin Berd hill in Yerevan, Erebuni Fortress offers you an incredible journey into ancient history. Founded in 782 BC by Urartian King Argishti I, this fortified city sits 1,017 meters above sea level and served as a vital political, economic, and religious center along the kingdom's northern border. As you explore the roots of Armenia’s modern capital—whose very name derives from Erebuni—you will walk among impressive 10-to-12-meter-high ramparts crafted from basalt, tuff, wood, and adobe.
Inside the complex, you can view the remains of Argishti’s grand palace, a colonnaded royal assembly hall, and living quarters. A major highlight is the Temple of Khaldi, featuring an open portico, a ziggurat staircase, wooden plank floors, and colorful frescoes depicting gods and sacred animals. You will also discover ancient cuneiform inscriptions carved into basalt, massive buried ceramic jars once used for storing wine and grain, and storage rooms marked with historical records.
To complete your visit, step into the on-site Erebuni Museum of History, established in 1968, where uncovered artifacts like silver coins, helmets, drinking vessels, and intricate belt buckles bring the rich legacy of this ancient citadel to life.
What to see at Erebuni Fortress
- Explore ancient Urartian fortress ramparts and royal palace ruins dating back to 782 BC.
- Discover the Temple of Khaldi, featuring unique wooden plank floors and colorful wall frescoes.
- Read authentic cuneiform inscriptions carved directly into basalt stones across the site.
- See large ceramic storage jars embedded into the earth for ancient wine and grain storage.
- Browse excavated helmets, silver coins, and drinking vessels in the Erebuni Museum of History.
Visiting tips
Head to the southeastern slope of Arin Berd hill to find the fortress's main entrance leading into the central yard.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Erebuni Fortress is easy to reach on Yerevan’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Blue Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Yerevan travel guide.
See the full Yerevan travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.