Khertvisi is one of the most ancient, biggest and remained well enough fortresses in Georgia. Its walls witnessed the battle of Alexander the Great of Macedon...
I visited many awesome landmarks on my first and so far the only trip to Georgia. We passed the citadel on the way to cave monastery in Vardzia, and decided to explore it on the way back. The weather suddenly turned cloudy, the light was like it is in the end of day.
So it all looks a bit creepy and grim at my pictures. But it is a very nice place, and easy to get to. Also, there is a snack shop Cafe Tourist at the start of the path. When we were there, a cash box was closed, and we freely got inside.
According to Georgian chroniclers, the fortress was constructed in the 4th-3rd centuries B.C. on a rocky crag above the meeting of the Paravani and Mtkvari Rivers, in Southern Georgia. Its name (as well as name of the village beneath) comes from the word that designates confluence of rivers.
The strategic location determined its purpose - to guard the road connecting Armenia and Byzantium.
They say it stood on the Great Silk Road, I suppose from East through Georgia to Turkey.
Some sources say that Khertvisi was destroyed by Alexander the Great. In the 13th century Khertvisi was destroyed by Mongols, later in 1578 was seized by Turks.
Of course, due to these events Fortress changed its appearance several times during the long life. Significant renovation work has been performed in 10th and 14th centuries and progressively grew into a city.
From the eastern wall two secret passages go down to the river. One was used for water, the other served as a communication system. There are ruins of a church within the walls dated to 985. Two big towers (main towers) of citadel were built in the time of Queen Tamara (1184-1212).
From a high rocky upland the fortress overlooks the small village of Khertvisi.
Ready to Blog & Earn?
With TravelFeed, easily start your own travel blog and earn as you go. It's the smart platform for travelers who want to profit from their passion. Create a free account
That's all folks!
I hope it was interesting reading. Thank you for your visit!
Don't Forget: Get Travel Health Insurance!
To make your trip a worry-free experience, TravelFeed recommends SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. It provides comprehensive health coverage while you travel, so you can focus on exploring, not the unexpected. Get a quote here
Unless stated otherwise all photos used in my posts are taken and owned by myself, if you wish to use any of my images please contact me.
eSteem.app | GitHub | Telegram | Discord
Travel Resources for your trip to Georgia
Recommended by TravelFeed
Flights: We recommend checking Kiwi.com to find the best and cheapest flights to Georgia.
Accomodation: Explore the best places to stay in Georgia on Booking.com, Agoda and Hostelworld.
Travel Insurance: Medical emergencies abroad can be pricey, but travel health insurance is not. We always use SafetyWing for affordable and reliable coverage.
Car Rental: For hassle-free car hiring, DiscoverCars is our trusted choice with a wide selection of vehicles.
Internet: Got an eSIM compatible phone? Airalo is perfect for reliable internet access during your trip. Just install it before you go, and you're set!
Day Trips & Tours: We recommend GetYourGuide for a variety of well-organized and enjoyable activities.
Travel Planner: Need a hand planning? Our free travel planner chatbot is your personal guide to Georgia. Chat now.
Disclosure: Posts on TravelFeed may contain affiliate links. See affiliate disclosure.