Mantashaberd

Mantash Berd is also known as Mantash Kala, Kara-Kala, Ashot Yerkat Fortress. It is located 7 km south of the city of Ijevan, Tavush region, on the right bank of the Aghstev river, on the top of a wooded mountain. According to historical data, it belongs to the Bagratuni period. The castle is two-storied, in the form of a staircase, the first floor is quite spacious, another rock rises from the north, on which the second level of the castle, the citadel, is located, it is fortified with walls, it has a separate entrance from the eastern side. The main entrance is from the southwestern corner of the plateau, on the eastern side of the mountain wall. The foundation walls of the structures can be seen in both parts of the castle. The walls are made of black stone, joined with strong lime mortar, have pyramidal towers, and small round holes in the walls. According to tradition, Prince Mantash built Mantashberd in front of Aghjkaberd and attacked the fortress in order to take possession of the latter's princess.