Black Fortress Tourism

The Black Fortress, known locally as Sev Berd, stands prominently on the northeastern side of Gyumri, which is the second-largest city in Armenia. This historical fortress was constructed in the 1830s by the Russians, during the Tsarist era, primarily as a military garrison. Its strategic location was chosen due to Gyumri's proximity to the Ottoman Empire, which is now modern-day Turkey. The Black Fortress is an exemplar of 19th-century military architecture, featuring a defensive style characteristic of that period. Although it has suffered damage from various earthquakes, notably the devastating 1988 Spitak earthquake, the fortress still retains a commanding presence overlooking the city. Its dark basalt stones give the structure its characteristic black color, which contrasts sharply with the surrounding landscape. Today, the fortress is a cultural and historic symbol of Gyurmi and serves as a venue for various cultural events, including concerts and festivals. It is considered a must-visit for those interested in Armenia's history and military architecture, providing visitors with a vivid glimpse into the city's Russian Imperial past.