Shaori fortress

Shaori fortress is a Bronze Age archaeological site located on two steep mountain peaks in Ninotsminda Municipality. The structure is built from large basalt blocks arranged in cyclopean style without mortar, forming distinct chambers and walls across the high-altitude terrain.

The fortress dates to the Middle Bronze Age, making it thousands of years old with the precise period still being refined by ongoing archaeological research. Written records first appeared in the early 18th century when Prince Vakhushti mentioned the site in Georgian historical documents.

Located at 2752 meters above sea level, the rhomboid-shaped structure suggests ceremonial purposes rather than residential use based on its layout and positioning.

Access is via a hiking trail of approximately one hour from Tambovka village, requiring sturdy footwear and reasonable physical fitness. The best visiting period is between June and September when weather conditions are stable and snow has melted.

The structure exhibits precise astronomical alignments suggesting its builders possessed advanced knowledge of celestial observation. Such alignments at archaeological sites often indicate ritual or ceremonial knowledge that extended beyond simple practical construction.