Every Castle and Fortress in Georgia Country: A Regional Guide
Georgia, rich in history and diverse landscapes, is home to an astonishing array of 157 castles and fortresses. These architectural marvels span from 800 to 1700 A.D., were constructed by various provincial kings, and reflect Georgia’s feudal era and architectural evolution. Notable among these are the Ananuri Fortress, built between 1200 and 1249, and the Rabati Castle, built from 1250 to 1299. Many of these structures are preserved by the United Nations, offering a unique glimpse into the nation’s past.
The fortresses and castles of Georgia played critical roles in protecting cities from enemy attacks. They were central to the country’s feudal power dynamics. The Narikala Fortress, the heart of Tbilisi, dates back to the 4th century. At the same time, the Ananuri Fortress near Tbilisi was a critical strategic and residential site. The Khertvisi Castle, one of the oldest, was a significant military stronghold. The Gremi temple complex, referred to as a castle, was once the capital of Kakheti and showcases unique 16th-century frescoes.
These castles and fortresses tell a unique story of Georgia’s past, from the seats of dukes and provincial capitals to symbols of historical eras. This guide categorizes all 157 castles and fortresses by region, offering an organized and engaging journey through Georgia’s rich historical fortifications. This introduction serves as a perfect starting point for anyone interested in exploring Georgia’s historic and architectural wonders.
Tbilisi
In Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, there are 3 castles and fortresses that reflect the city’s long history and its status as a political, economic, and cultural centre throughout different epochs.
| No | Name | Date of Construction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tabori Castle | Feudal age |
| 2 | Tbilisi Castle | Feudal age |
| 3 | Narikala Fortress | IV century |
Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia
The Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia is home to 4 castles and fortresses, each representing the region’s historical depth and strategic importance in Georgia, marked by diverse cultural influences and historical events.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anacopia Fortress | Feudal age | Gudauti Municipality |
| 2 | Satanjo Castle | VIII-X century | Municipality of Gali |
| 3 | Bzyb fortress | VIII-X centuries. | Municipality of Gagri |
| 4 | Trakei Castle | VI century | Gudauti Municipality |
Autonomous Republic of Adjara
The Autonomous Republic of Adjara, known for its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, has 12 castles and fortresses. These historical structures symbolise the region’s rich history and strategic significance over the centuries.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Batumi Castle | VI Century | Batumi |
| 2 | Petra Fortress | VI Century | Municipality of Kobuleti |
| 3 | Gonio Fortress | I Century | Khelvachauri municipality |
| 4 | Khikhani Fortress | X-XI Centuries | Khulo municipality |
| 5 | Gulebi Castle | XII-XIII Centuries | Municipality of Kedi |
| 6 | Saghoreti Fortress | XIV-XV Centuries | Municipality of Kedi |
| 7 | Civasula Castle | XVI-XVII Centuries | Municipality of Kedi |
| 8 | Elias Castle | Municipality of Kobuleti | |
| 9 | Mamuka Castle | Municipality of Kobuleti | |
| 10 | Gvara Castle | Khelvachauri municipality | |
| 11 | Begoshvili Castle | XII-XIII Centuries | Khulo municipality |
| 12 | Tsikhishekeli Castle | XII-XIII Centuries | Khulo municipality |
Guria Region
In the Guria Region, characterized by its lush landscapes and rich cultural traditions, there are 4 castles and fortresses. These structures symbolize the historical resilience and architectural heritage of the region.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Askani Castle | IV Century | Ozurgeti Municipality |
| 2 | Bukitsikhe Castle | Chokhatauri municipality | |
| 3 | Likhauri Castle | Ozurgeti Municipality | |
| 4 | Ghomi Castle | Middle ages | Chokhatauri municipality |
Imereti Region
The Imereti Region, a historically significant area in central-western Georgia, has 16 castles and fortresses. These structures reflect the region’s rich past, from its ancient roots in Colchis to its period under the Byzantine Empire and later Ottoman influence.
| N | name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Castle of Uchimerion | VI Century | Kutaisi |
| 2 | Baghdati Fortress | 1703 | Baghdati Municipality |
| 3 | Mtskeri Castle | VIII Century | Zestafoni municipality |
| 4 | Shorapni Fortress | Ancient times | Zestafoni municipality |
| 5 | Bertsikhe | Formerly a fief. Age | Terjola municipality |
| 6 | Scande Castle | IV Century | Terjola municipality |
| 7 | Modinakhe | XVIII Century | Sachkhere municipality |
| 8 | Tsutskhati Castle | Middle ages | Municipality of Tkibuli |
| 9 | Jvari Castle | Middle ages | Municipality of Tkibuli |
| 10 | Dghnornis Castle | Middle ages | Tskaltubo municipality |
| 11 | Katskhi Castle | Feudal age | Chiatura Municipality |
| 12 | Navardzeti Castle | Feudal age | Chiatura Municipality |
| 13 | Sveri Castle | Middle ages | Chiatura Municipality |
| 14 | Vakhani Castle | X-XI Centuries | Kharagauli municipality |
| 15 | Chkheri Castle | Kharagauli municipality | |
| 16 | Didgvabuni Castle | formerly a fief. Age | Khoni municipality |
Kakheti Region
Once an independent principality and later a kingdom, the Kakheti Region has a storied history of peace and prosperity under the reigns of Kakhetian Kings like Alexander I and Levan. Known for developing new churches, castles, and palaces, and as an essential urban centre in the Caucasus, Kakheti is home to 20 castles and fortresses that symbolize its rich historical legacy.
| N | NAME | DATE OF CONSTRUCTION | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ujarma Fortress | III-IV centuries. | Municipality of Sagarejo |
| 2 | Khornabuji Fortress | V century | Dedoplistskaro municipality |
| 3 | Psiti Castle | V-VI centuries. | Telavi Municipality |
| 4 | Kveteri Fortress | VIII century | Akhmeta Municipality |
| 5 | Kachalauri Castle | VIII-IX centuries. | Akhmeta Municipality |
| 6 | Machi Castle | 9th century | Lagodekhi municipality |
| 7 | Bochorma Castle | X century. | Tianeti Municipality |
| 8 | Manavi Fortress | X-XI centuries. | Municipality of Sagarejo |
| 9 | Gremi Castle | X-XIII centuries. | Municipality of Kvareli |
| 10 | Batonis Castle | 17th century | Telavi |
| 11 | Kvareli Fortress | 17th century | Kvareli |
| 12 | Sighnaghi Fortress-Fort | 17th century | Sighnaghi |
| 13 | Khashmi Castle | 17th century | Municipality of Sagarejo |
| 14 | Niakhura Fortress | XVII-XVIII centuries. | Municipality of Sagarejo |
| 15 | Laliskuri Fotress | XVII-XVIII centuries. | Telavi Municipality |
| 16 | Cholokashvili Castle-hall | 1755-1756 | Akhmeta Municipality |
| 17 | Korchibashishvili Castle | 18th century | Telavi |
| 18 | Matni Castle | 18th century | Akhmeta Municipality |
| 19 | Shildi Fortress | 18th century | Municipality of Kvareli |
| 20 | The second Fortress of Makashvili | 18th century | Telavi Municipality |
Mtskheta-Mtianeti Region
The Mtskheta-Mtianeti Region, with its ancient city of Mtskheta, is a historical gem of Georgia. It is renowned for its UNESCO-listed sites and status as a spiritual centre of Georgian Christianity. This region, steeped in a rich past, is home to 2 fortresses that reflect its enduring legacy.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ananuri Fotress | XVI-XVIII Centuries. | Dusheti municipality |
| 2 | Arshi Fortress | XVI century | Kazebegi Municipality |
Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti Region
The Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti Region is a picturesque area in northwestern Georgia, marked by its mountainous terrain and historical significance. This region proudly presents 2 fortresses and 1 castle, each narrating a part of Georgia’s diverse and rich historical landscape.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kvari Fotress | Feudal age | Municipality of Ambrolauri |
| 2 | Minda Fortress | Middle ages | Municipality of Ambrolauri |
| 3 | Khotevi Castle | XVII century | Municipality of Ambrolauri |
Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Region
The Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Region, located in northwestern Georgia, has stunning natural beauty and significant historical depth. Renowned for its Georgian architectural marvels from various periods and enriched with UNESCO-listed sites, this region houses 14 castles and fortresses, each contributing to the rich historical tapestry of Georgia.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abedati Fortress | – | Martvili Municipality |
| 2 | Anaklia Fortress | – | Zugdidi Municipality |
| 3 | Eki Castle | – | Senaki Municipality |
| 4 | Tamakoni Castle | – | Martvili Municipality |
| 5 | Kotianeti Castle | – | Senaki Municipality |
| 6 | Rukhi Castle | – | Zugdidi Municipality |
| 7 | Sakalandarishvili Castle | – | Senaki Municipality |
| 8 | Skuri Castle | – | Senaki Municipality |
| 9 | Noga Fortress | – | Martvili Municipality |
| 10 | Shkefi Fortress | – | Senaki Municipality |
| 11 | Tsikhegoji Fortress | – | Senaki Municipality |
| 12 | Chakvinji Fortress | – | Zugdidi Municipality |
| 13 | Khamiskuri Castle | – | Khobi Municipality |
| 14 | Kheti Castle | – | Khobi Municipality |
Samtskhe-Javakheti Region
The Samtskhe-Javakheti Region in southern Georgia encompasses the historical provinces of Meskheti, Javakheti, and Tori. This region, bordered by Armenia and Turkey, features the Javakheti Plateau. It is renowned for its volcanic highlands and historic attractions like the Vardzia cave monasteries, Rabati Castle, and Khertvisi Fortress. Hosting 21 castles and fortresses, Samtskhe-Javakheti offers a rich tapestry of Georgia’s feudal past and architectural heritage.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abuli Castle | Akhalkalaki Municipality | |
| 2 | Aspindze Castle | Aspindze Municipality | |
| 3 | Arkistsikhe Castle | Akhaltsikhe Municipality | |
| 4 | Rabati Castle | IX St. | Akhaltsikhe Municipality |
| 5 | Atskuri Castle | XI Sc. | Akhaltsikhe Municipality |
| 6 | Demoti Castle | Municipality of Borjomi | |
| 7 | Dviri Castle | XIII-XIV centuries. | Municipality of Borjomi |
| 8 | Vardi Castle | Akhalkalaki Municipality | |
| 9 | Zanavi Castle | Middle ages | Adigeni Municipality |
| 10 | Tiseli Castle | Akhaltsikhe Municipality | |
| 11 | Tmogvi Fortress | X St. | Aspindze Municipality |
| 12 | Kokhtastavi Castle | Aspindze Municipality | |
| 13 | Okro Fortress | XIII century | Adigeni Municipality |
| 14 | Petre Castle | Municipality of Borjomi | |
| 15 | Sakanape Castle | Akhaltsikhe Municipality | |
| 16 | Sles Castle | Middle ages | Akhaltsikhe Municipality |
| 17 | Shaori Fortress | Akhalkalaki Municipality | |
| 18 | Khertvisi Fortress | Municipality of Borjomi | |
| 19 | Khertushi Castle | 1354-56 | Aspindze Municipality |
| 20 | Kherkhemi Castle | Middle ages | Adigeni Municipality |
| 21 | Jaki Castle | Early Middle Ages |
Kvemo Kartli Region
Nestled in the southern expanse of Georgia, the Kvemo Kartli region is a mosaic of historical landmarks, prominently featuring 16 castles and fortresses. These structures, from the strategically located Kldekari Fortress to the imposing Kolagiri Fortress, represent a unique chapter in Georgia’s rich historical narrative. Their enduring presence offers a window into the past, showcasing this historically significant area’s architectural and cultural diversity.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Berdoki Castle | Municipality of Bolnisi | |
| 2 | Kushi Fortress | Middle ages | Municipality of Bolnisi |
| 3 | Kolagiri Fortress | XVIII century | Municipality of Bolnisi |
| 4 | Chapali Castle | Middle ages | Municipality of Bolnisi |
| 5 | Kojori Castle | XI century | Municipality of Gardabani |
| 6 | Birtvisi Fortres | Tetritskaro municipality | |
| 7 | Kldekari Fortress | IX-X centuries | Tetritskaro municipality |
| 8 | Lasti Fortress | XII century | Tetritskaro municipality |
| 9 | Orbeti Fortress | Middle ages | Tetritskaro municipality |
| 10 | Samshvilde Fortress-City | Tetritskaro municipality | |
| 11 | Partskhis Castle | Tetritskaro municipality | |
| 12 | The Santis Cyclopean Cast.e | Middle ages | Municipality of Tsalki |
| 13 | Khuluti Castle | XVIII century | Tetritskaro municipality |
| 14 | Ofreti Castle | Early feudal age | Marneuli municipality |
| 15 | Tsofi Castle | Middle ages | Marneuli municipality |
| 15 | Rustavi Fortress | V-VIII centuries | Rustavi |
| 16 | Gagi Fortress | Marneuli municipality |
Shida Kartli Region
The Shida Kartli Region, located in the heart of Georgia, is rich in history and cultural heritage, boasting an impressive array of 43 castles and fortresses. This area, once the economic and cultural hub during Georgia’s unified monarchy, is dotted with remarkable historical structures. Among these, the Mzovreti Monastery Fortress is a testament to Georgia’s spiritual and historical depth. At the same time, the Gori Fortress, a national monument, exemplifies the region’s military history. The Surami Fortress further highlights Shida Kartli’s strategic importance, with its 17th-century origins as a stronghold along crucial trade routes. Each fortress in this region embodies a unique story, contributing to the intricate tapestry of Georgian history and culture.
| N | Name | Date of Construction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abisi Castle | XVIII century | Kareli Municipality |
| 2 | Ateni Fortress | X-XI century | Gori Municipality |
| 3 | Akhaltsikhe Fortress | XVIII century | Kaspi Municipality |
| 4 | Bekhushe Castle | Late Middle Ages | Gori Municipality |
| 5 | Bulbuli Castle | Feudal age | Khashuri Municipality |
| 6 | Gori Fortress | BC year 1st millennium, 1774 | Gori Municipality |
| 7 | Dri Castle | Developed Feudal age | Kaspi Municipality |
| 8 | Vere Castle | IX-X century | Gori Municipality |
| 9 | Kiknatberi Castle | Late Feudal Age | Gori Municipality |
| 10 | Kldemaghala Castle | V-VI century | Kaspi Municipality |
| 11 | Mtskhetijvari Castle | Feudal age | Khashuri Municipality |
| 12 | Osiauri Castle | XVII-XVIII century | Khashuri Municipality |
| 13 | Rkoni Fortress | XVIII century | Kaspi Municipality |
| 14 | Surami Fortress | Middle ages | Khashuri Municipality |
| 15 | Skvilo Castle | XIV century | Kaspi Municipality |
| 16 | Tirdznis Castle | II half of XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 17 | Tskhireti Castle | X century | Kaspi Municipality |
| 18 | Dzamis Castle | Developed Feudal Age | Kareli Municipality |
| 19 | Tsedisi Fortress | X century | Gori Municipality |
| 20 | Achabeti Fortress | Gori Municipality | |
| 21 | Kekhvi Castle | Gori Municipality | |
| 22 | Mirmanoz Eristavi Castle | XVII-XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 23 | Atots Castle | XVIII century | Kareli Municipality |
| 24 | Gnolidze castle | XVII-XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 25 | Khubashvili Castle | XVII-XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 26 | Chasarbeni Castle | XVII-XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 27 | Tkviavi Fortress | XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 28 | Shindisi Fortress | XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 29 | Aradeti Fortress | XVII century | Kareli Municipality |
| 30 | Mdzovreti castle | XVII century | Kareli Municipality |
| 31 | Samtsverisi Fortress | XV-XVII century | Kareli Municipality |
| 32 | Skhlebi Castle | Feudal age | Kareli Municipality |
| 33 | Atsriskhevi Fortress | XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 34 | Pokhala Fortress | Late Middle Ages | Gori Municipality |
| 35 | Gozo Fortress | Middle Feudal Age | Gori Municipality |
| 36 | Vanati Fotress | Advanced and Late Middle Ages | Gori Municipality |
| 37 | Vildi Castle | Late Middle Ages | Gori Municipality |
| 38 | Ikorti Fortress | Late Middle Ages | Gori Municipality |
| 49 | Inauri Castle | Late Middle Ages | Gori Municipality |
| 40 | Rekomi Castle | developed middle ages | Gori Municipality |
| 41 | Sathikhari Castle | XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
| 42 | Sveri Castle | Late Middle Ages | Gori Municipality |
| 43 | Khaduriantubani Castle | XVIII century | Gori Municipality |
What Did We Learn Today?
Today, we delved into the rich tapestry of Georgia’s history, embodied in its remarkable castles and fortresses. These structures showcase architectural brilliance and narrate stories of past civilizations, wars, and rulers. We learned about the diversity of designs, each castle and fortress reflecting a specific era and cultural influence. This journey through Georgia’s historic sites reveals a country deeply rooted in history and pride, offering invaluable insights into its heritage and the resilience of its people. Indeed, Georgia’s castles and fortresses are a testament to its storied past and enduring legacy.