Mdzovreti fortress

Mdzovreti fortress sits on the right bank of the Dzama River and contains a church, bell tower, castle, and agricultural areas as one unified structure. The building has multiple floors with preserved fireplaces, windows, and small niches linked by wooden staircases that connect the different defensive sections.

In the 10th century, the fortress served as the residence of Prince Adarnase of Dzami and later became a refuge for Theodosius III of Abkhazia. These two phases show its importance as a key stronghold in the region across generations.

The eastern section holds a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and the entire complex became a monastery in 2008 honoring the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers. Visitors can sense the religious importance of a place that served as a spiritual center and refuge across generations.

The site is set in a rural area and is best visited during daylight when natural light reveals the steep stairs and narrow passages more clearly. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the climb to the fortress is steep and the internal passages have uneven surfaces.

Archaeological digs uncovered ceramic water pipes and dish fragments that show the site was occupied across many centuries. These findings reveal that people from different time periods lived here and carried out their daily routines.

GPS coordinates: 41.95194,43.74417

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:21