Khertvisi Fortress: A Stone Stronghold Above Two Rivers

Khertvisi Fortress

At Khertvisi, architecture and landscape seem to merge. The fortress stands on a rocky promontory above the meeting of the Paravani and Mtkvari rivers, with stone defences that follow the shape of the cliff.

Inside the Stronghold

A fortified citadel sits within the surrounding walls. Inside are the remains of buildings and a small hall church. A tunnel on the northwestern side once helped bring river water into the complex.

Khertvisi also served as a residence for feudal rulers. Its changing owners repaired and altered the buildings over the centuries, leaving a fortress shaped by several periods of history.

A Stop in the River Valley

A footpath leads up from the village to the fortress. Take time to admire how the walls blend into the rock and look out across the valley before continuing your exploration of Samtskhe-Javakheti.

Where Is Khertvisi Fortress?