ERVANDASHAT
Armavir region
v. Yervandashat
state index-3.41.1
The capital Ervandashat was situated in Eraskhadzor region -within the historical province of Ayrarat on the left bank of the Araks River. It was the last capital of the Kingdom of Ervandunis’. It was founded at the end of the III century B.C. by the Armenian King Ervand. From a chronological point of view Ervandashat is the third capital of Armenia. Today the hardly visible ruins of Ervandashat are located near the village of Ervandashat of Armavir region. The remains of walls and various buildings, the ruins of two medieval churches, the cross-stones, lithographic inscriptions have been preserved.
According to Movses Khorenaci the capital was replaced to Ervandashat from Armavir due to the fact of changing the course of the Eraskh river and the strategic importance. The new capital had a firm position and more abounding in water comparing with the old one.
The citadel was built on the rocky hill. It had thick walls constructed with huge quartzes which are connected to each other with iron nails. It also had other defensive structures, special water supply system and a number of dwellings. Copper doors and iron stairs were installed in the walls and the hidden traps were placed into them. On the right side of the junction point of the Akhuryan and Araks Rivers Armenian King Ervand also founded Ervandakert royal country-seat at the end of the III century. It was a unique of its impregnability and its splendid structure. Until the middle of the IV century Ervandashat was one of the largest cities of Ancient Armenia. It had 50 thousand inhabitants, developed commerce and culture.
According to Pavstos Buzand the Persian invasions of the IV century became fatal for Ervandashat. In 360s the troops of Persian King Shapuh destroyed Ervandashat. The majority of the population were taken prisoners and once prosperous city turned into a feudal fortress.
Main literature:
M.Hovhannesyan, The fortresses of Armenia, Venice, 1970.
B. Araqeljan, Where were situated Ervandashat and Ervandakert cities?, 1965, N3.
