Georgia: Khertvisi Fortress
Further into southern Georgia, we came to the spectacular Khertvisi Fortress near the confluence of the Mtkvari and Paravani rivers. Khertvisi Fortress is one of the oldest and most well-preserved fortresses in Georgia, and the strategic position of Khertvisi made it a crucial defensive stronghold throughout its long history.. The fortress dates back to the 2nd century BC. Its location on a high rocky plateau provided a natural defensive advantage, making it a key military site in the region. The fortress was particularly significant during the medieval period, it was destroyed by Alexander the Great but later rebuilt and strengthened. In the 10th-11th centuries, during Georgia’s Golden Age under the reign of King David IV and Queen Tamar, the fortress was extensively fortified. It served as a military base and a trade route protection point along the Silk Route. Khertvisi fell under Ottoman control in the 16th century and remained an important fortification until the Russian annexation in the 19th century. The fortress is surrounded by thick stone walls, punctuated by several watchtowers. These walls were designed to withstand sieges and provide a strong defensive position. The main entrance is heavily fortified, with a narrow passage designed to impede invaders. Inside the fortress, there are remains of various structures, including barracks, storage rooms, and a church.
