Atskuri Fortress, Medieval fortress in Samtskhe-Javakheti, Georgia
Atskuri Fortress sits on a rocky ridge near the village of Atskuri in Samtskhe-Javakheti, featuring defensive walls, towers, and tunnels carved into the rock. These passages connected the fortress to the Mtkvari River below, providing access to water and escape routes.
The fortress was built in the 11th century to defend the Borjomi Valley and served as a key stronghold for centuries. Ottoman forces captured it in the 16th century and held it until the early 1800s.
The fortress walls display building techniques from different periods, showing how Georgian military construction evolved over time. Visitors can see these changes directly in the stonework as they walk through the structure.
The climb to the fortress is steep and physically demanding, especially when the ground is wet or in poor light conditions. Wear sturdy shoes and allow plenty of time for both the ascent and descent.
A hidden tunnel was carved into the rock to provide defenders with water access during long sieges. This underground passage shows the military engineering skill that went into protecting the fortress.
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