The name of the settlement where the fortress is located comes from a homonymous village named “Dashtadem” in Sassoun, Western Armenia. However, according to many historical accounts, the ancient name of this particular settlement has always been Talin.
In medieval Armenia, the fortress served as one of the most significant and largest defense establishments. As you plan tours in Armenia, consider this as one of your destinations. Here’s how to get to Dashtadem Fortress.
The base of the fortress was founded during the Urartian period. Furthermore, in the Armenian historical records, the fortress castle has been tied to the Bagratuni or Bagratid dynasty – the most prominent Armenian noble family in the time frame of Arab rule in Armenia. Over the course of the 11th and 12th centuries, the fortress was actively used. Later, it was captured by the Arab rule in Armenia – especially after the fall of the Bagratuni dynasty. Towards the end of the 12th century, the governor of the Ani capital, Sultan ibn Mahmoud, constructed pyramids with a semi-circular and polygonal design and recorded information about them in Arabic script on one wall of the fortress.
From Then to Now – Dashtadem Fortress
Dashtadem fortress is of of the most unique places to see in Armenia thanks to its divers history. The fortress was under Zakarian rule in the 13th century. In addition to the walls surrounding the fortress, Zakaryan princes built a single-naved domed church near its northern wall.
The fortress complex is partially ruined now, but the way it’s been built is noticeable, indicating the strong foundation intentionally designed for durability. Hence, it’s always been considered one of the safest.
There are numerous rare Khachkars all around the fortress’s walls.
Towards the south, you can notice the remnants of another important middle age building – Talin’s Tavern for Caravans. Caravans passing through from different parts of the world would stop there and spend the night.
The Persians carried out the most recent restorations of the Dashtadem fortress at the end of the 18th century.
As a defense structure, it was used during the disputes between the Turks and Persians. At those times, Hussein Khan of Yerevan constructed walls with eight angled towers, which led to the fortress being the largest in Armenia. Since then, it’s been standing strong and welcoming curious travelers and tours in Armenia to this day!
