Black Fortress in Gyumri

Explore Gyumri city's history by visiting the Black Fortress, a stunning example of 19th-century military architecture built from black tuff stone. This imposing structure played a vital role in Russian military strategy during conflicts with Turkey. Located on a hilltop, not far from Mother Armenia monument, the fortress offers visitors a chance to travel back in time, discover the city’s military past, and enjoy panoramic views. Include the Black Fortress in your travel plans when you explore Armenia’s rich heritage on tours in Armenia.

In 1813, following the Treaty of Gulistan, which ended the Russo-Persian War (1804-1813), Gyumri, a strategic location on the border with Turkey, became part of the Russian Empire. With the looming threat of a new conflict with Turkey, Russian authorities prioritized fortifying Alexandropol (Gyumri’s name from 1837 to 1924). Ivan Dibich, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian army in the Caucasus, emphasized the need for a stronghold, declaring, "In the event of a possible war with the Turks, it is necessary to build a fortress and strengthen it as the most important military outpost."

Mother Armenia and Black Fortress in Gyumri

Construction of the Black Fortress began in 1834 atop a hill, taking more than a decade to complete. The fortress, made from black tuff stone, was designed as a circular fortification, earning its distinctive name. After Russia's defeat in the Crimean War, the fortress was upgraded to a first-class status. Although it was never besieged, it played a crucial role in the Russian-Turkish conflicts that persisted until 1878.

Following the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, when the Russians captured Kars, the Black Fortress's defensive role diminished, transitioning into an artillery depot. The fortress features several isolated defense structures strategically placed to halt initial enemy advances. Notably, the fort boasts a sophisticated drainage system to protect its walls from rain, and its defense setup includes small concrete fortifications designed as machine gun emplacements. The citadel, positioned at the center, is elevated and surrounded by narrow, high openings ideal for rifle fire.

Black fortress in Gyumri

In 2005, the fortress was acquired by businessman Hayk Hayrapetyan from the Armenian Ministry of Defense. After Hayrapetyan’s death in 2012, the Black Fortress was sold to the Balasanyan family. Today, under the ownership of Misak Balasanyan, the fortress has been transformed into a significant landmark of Gyumri, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich military history and architectural heritage.