Birtvisi

Birtvisi is a medieval fortress built on limestone cliffs within the Algeti River gorge. Multiple towers and walls at different elevations use the natural terrain to guard the passage through the canyon.

In 1038, Georgian nobles Liparit and Ivane Abazasdze took control of the fortress from an Arab emir and secured Georgian rule in the region. This takeover marked a turning point in local control of the important trade routes.

The fortress shows how medieval Georgians built and used their strongholds in difficult terrain. The towers and walls were positioned so that residents could control and watch over their surroundings.

The fortress sits roughly 60 kilometers south of Tbilisi and can be reached on foot. Access begins in the village of Partskhisi, where marked paths lead to the site and require a substantial hike.

The highest tower, called Sheupovari, perches on an isolated rock and offered its owners an unobstructed view over the entire gorge. From here, guards could track all activity on the trade routes below.