Founded during 5th century and then better fortified in 9-10 centuries, this was a significant defensive construction guarding vast territories, due to its advantageous uppermost position. Smbataberd is located in the East of Artabuynk village of Vayots Dzor province.
There are several name origins connected to the fortress. According to one of them, Smbataberd is said to have received the name from its founder Smbat Orbelian, the prince of Syunik province. Another viewpoint belongs to Ghevond Alishan, who assumed that the fortress had been named after Smbat I Bagratuni. Lastly, Kapuyt Berd (Blue Fortress), mentioned by Stepanos Orbelian as one of the strongest fortresses of Vayots Dzor province, finds its identical copy in the descriptions of Smbataberd.
The ruins of the citadel, residential buildings, as well as water reservoirs have been preserved till the present day.
In 2006-2007 a large-scale reconstruction of the fortress was carried out.
