Hrashkaberd

Little remains today of Hrashkaberd beyond scattered fortifications, but its position on the heights above Areni marks it as one of the many defensive strongholds that once watched over the Vayots Dzor valley. Like most fortresses in this part of Armenia, it dates from the medieval period and has long since fallen into ruin.

The site is of interest mainly to those keen on exploring Armenia's lesser-known fortress remains rather than to casual sightseers, as no restoration or interpretive infrastructure is in place.

Hrashkaberd lies within the area of Areni village in Vayots Dzor, a region well known for its wine and easily reached along the main road connecting Yerevan with Yeghegnadzor. From Areni, reaching the fortress ruins involves leaving the village and heading up into the surrounding hills.

As with most exposed hilltop ruins in Vayots Dzor, the site is easiest to visit in the warmer months, when paths up to it are clear of snow and ice.