Manavi fortress

Manavi Fortress occupies a hilltop and features defensive walls built from field stone and red brick, guarded by four towers at key positions. The complex contains ruins of residential buildings and several religious structures scattered across the site.

This fortress served as a royal residence for King David II of Kakheti during the early 18th century, with a palace constructed inside its fortified walls. The site was eventually abandoned and gradually deteriorated over time.

Three religious structures within the complex, including the St. Virgin Mary Nativity Temple, reflect the architectural traditions of medieval Georgian design.

The site is about 60 kilometers from Tbilisi and reachable by car in roughly an hour. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is uneven and some pathways climb steeply.

The complex contains multiple water reservoirs that supplied residents with water during long periods of isolation from outside help. These storage systems reveal the practical foresight built into the original design.

Location: Sagarejo Municipality

GPS coordinates: 41.73016,45.44172

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:22