Samshvilde

Samshvilde is an ancient fortified city that spreads across a river valley, revealing medieval walls and ruins of various structures from different periods. The site sits on a natural hilltop positioned defensively between rivers on three sides.

This settlement began over 2000 years ago as an important fortress and later became a seat of power for multiple rulers. Its influence stretched across centuries before the place gradually lost its importance.

The Samshvilde Sioni church from the 8th century shows how religious buildings shaped this place over time. Multiple churches scattered across the site reveal how important faith and worship were to the communities that lived here.

The site lies in a river valley and is best explored on foot, so sturdy shoes are helpful for walking across uneven terrain. The best time to visit is during warmer months when the paths are easier to navigate.

Excavations uncovered old coins and metal objects that suggest wealthy people once stored treasure at this location. These discoveries hint at trade networks that once connected this isolated hilltop to distant regions.