Khertvisi, Medieval fortress in Aspindza Municipality, Georgia
Khertvisi is a stone fortress located at 1126 meters elevation on a rocky mountain where the Mtkvari and Paravani rivers meet. The site contains scattered building remains spread across uneven terrain that show its defensive function.
The fortress was first noted in the 4th century BCE when Alexander the Great passed through during his eastern campaign, before being reconstructed around 1000 CE. This rebuilding made it an important defensive position in the region.
The fortress contains remains of a small chapel and other structures that reflect traditional Georgian military architecture, visible especially in the western section. These buildings show how religious and defensive purposes were combined in this location.
The terrain is uneven and requires sturdy footwear to safely navigate the ruins and explore different structures. From here, visitors can reach nearby sites through marked paths to explore the surrounding area.
The fortress had an underground tunnel system for water supply built in the northwestern section, showing advanced medieval engineering skills. This system helped the garrison maintain a long resistance if the site came under siege.
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