Akhaltsikhe is an old town of 50 years. Akhaltsikhe - a city near a medieval fortress
Akhaltsikhe(Georgian ახალციხე, literally - New fortress(Georgian “ახალი ციხე”, “Akhali Tsikhe”);) - a city in southern Georgia. District center of the Akhaltsikhe region, administrative center of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. It is located on the Potskhovis-Tskali River (a tributary of the Kura), highways to Batumi, Borjomi, and Akhalkalaki pass through the city. Railroad station Georgian railway 52 km from Borjomi on the Khashuri - Vale line. There is a theater in the city. Abastumani resort is 28 kilometers from the city.
Story
Founded in the first half of the 12th century AD. e. From the 14th century to the 80s of the 16th century, Akhaltsikhe was the center of culture, politics and economics of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region and the residence of atabegs from the Jakeli clan. In 1579 the city came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire and from 1628 the city became the center of the Akhaltsikhe province of Tur. Ahıska of the Ottoman Empire.
In December 1810, Tamaz Orbeliani took part in the campaign against Akhaltsikhe together with General A. Tormasov, and after a ten-day siege he was forced to retreat to the Borjomi Gorge. There his fighters discovered Borjomi mineral springs.
During the Russian-Turkish War of 1828-1829, in August 1828, near the walls of Akhaltsikhe, a battle took place between Russian troops under the command of General I. F. Paskevich (9 thousand people) and a 30 thousand-strong Turkish army under the overall command of Kios-Magomet. Pasha. The Turkish troops were defeated and retreated, after which the fortress was occupied by Russian troops. In February 1829, Turkish troops tried to recapture the fortress. The defense of the Akhaltsikhe fortress under the leadership of General Muravyov lasted from February 20 to March 4, 1829. Having repulsed the first assault, the garrison held out for another 12 days, after which reinforcements approached them, forcing the Turks to retreat.
In 1829, following the Peace of Adrianople, the Akhaltsikhe fortress was annexed to the Russian Empire.
Attractions
View of the Akhaltsikhe fortress and Akhmediye Mosque
- Akhaltsikhe Fortress (Rabat)
- Ahmediye Mosque
- Church of the Epiphany of the Holy Cross (Akhaltsikhe)
The history of Akhaltsikhe, a picturesque, ancient town in Georgia, goes back more than a thousand years. The name of the settlement means “New Fortress”. This is the administrative center of the region called Samtskhe-Javakheti. The settlement was built in the 12th century. in a very convenient location – both from a geographical and strategic point of view. In ancient times, important trade routes passed through Akhaltsikhe, connecting Georgia with the rest of Europe and Asia. In particular, the city was connected with Turkey along the southwestern road.
Other roads of regional and national importance connect the city with Gori, Kutaisi, Borjomi, Buti and the capital of Georgia - Tbilisi.
The city, like its surroundings, is a mixture of hills, fields and plains. In territorial terms, Akhaltsikhe is divided into the Old Town, which is located on a hill, and the New District, which occupies the plain of the Potskhovi River (a tributary of a larger reservoir - the Kura). The old part of the city is called Left Bank, and the new part is called Right Bank.
Until 1828, Akhaltsikhe was located within the walls of the Rabat fortress, its northern environs, which abutted an ancient monastery and two ravines.
The city is located at the intersection of two important routes, one of which leads to Turkey, and the second from Batumi to Tbilisi. Akhaltsikhe is used as a stopping place to explore the surrounding area. In particular, this is the Sapara Monastery, Vardzia, and the Atskuri Fortress.
The suburbs of Akhaltsikhe are new buildings represented by private houses. They are located both from the eastern, western and northern entrances to the city.
This is the oldest fortress, built in the 13th century. on the hilly banks of the Potskhovi River. The name of the fort means "fortified city". The fortress was built in such a way that it is now visible from anywhere in the city. Over the centuries, the fort was destroyed many times, then restored, and all this time it performed defensive functions.
The fort is a reflection of the influence of numerous cultures, civilizations and religions, which is clearly visible in architectural style Rabat. A large-scale reconstruction was carried out in 2012, which allowed the ancient fort to become the cultural, historical and architectural center of Akhaltsikhe.
Within the fortress there is a park, a history museum, shops, hotels, a registry office, a synagogue, a mosque, and a church. This historical and cultural complex is located on an area of seven hectares. Rabat is divided into upper and lower parts. Each of them has equipped observation platforms, several towers with spiral staircases.
In the west of Rabat until the 19th century. The stream ran quietly. It was here that the ancient Jewish Quarter was located, occupying the entire left bank of the reservoir. Now only a few buildings remain from the quarter, including the so-called new synagogue.
The first synagogue appeared in Akhaltsikhe in the 1740s, and the second in the mid-1860s.
The Jewish population of the city until the second half of the 20th century. took an active part in the life of Akhaltsikhe. Then the number of Jews began to decrease, and the synagogues closed. At the beginning of the 21st century, a new synagogue was opened and is now operational.
It is called the Church of the Epiphany of the Holy Cross, and appeared in this part of Georgia in the 17th century. It was built in the traditional Armenian style, and for some time belonged to the Armenian Apostolic Church. Having passed to the Catholic Diocese, it was used to serve the Catholic parishioners of Akhaltsikhe.
The church is now dilapidated, its restoration is being carried out by the Georgian Catholic community. The right to own the temple is disputed between the Armenian and Georgian churches.
Located in the outskirts of the city, near the village of Meskheti. The monastery was founded by Saint Sava in the 13th century, and is now active. It is home to 20 monks who look after the monastery and conduct farming.
The complex preserves a huge number of frescoes made in the 10th-12th centuries. entering the territory of the monastery, you immediately feel the spirit of antiquity and antiquity, which is almost lost in most churches and ancient temples.
On the northern side of the city stretches a mountain range with many peaks. The maximum height of the peaks reaches 1,120 meters. The name Northern Heights appeared on maps of the 19th century. After World War II, the slopes were planted with pine and spruce trees, resulting in the mountain becoming a deserted mountain. Climbing the mountains, you can see the peaks Turkish mountains covered with ice, or see excellent panoramic views of Akhaltsikhe.
The northern heights are famous for the fact that in 1828 a major battle took place here between the armies of the Turkish and Russian empires. Near the mountain there are the remains of fortifications, traces of a Turkish camp and batteries.
Consists of several parks, the largest of which are Tabatskuri And Borjomi. The territory of the first protected area is adjacent to the lake of the same name, and the second occupies an area adjacent to Borjomi. Famous mineral springs are also located in this part of the national park.
The park is also famous for the fact that there are cave cities and monasteries built on the very peaks rocky mountains. IN winter time Javakheti is open to skiers who come here to ski.
The Rabat Fortress is famous for many memorable places, many of which became symbols of the fort. One of them is the Alley of Love, which is located near the registry office building. This is a remote part of the fortress, where the area is decorated with bushes trimmed in bizarre shapes, vineyards, and many trees and flower beds are planted. The plantings are complemented by natural picturesque landscapes. In the very center of the alley there is a small fountain surrounded by trees.
Another attraction located on the territory of the Rabat fortress. The castle was built by the rulers Meskheti, who were part of the feudal family of Jakeli (patriarchal house of Chorchaneli). The rulers who ruled from the 12th to the 17th centuries bore the title of atabeg. Southern Georgia. It was the Jakels who led the uprising when Rabat was captured by the Ottoman Turks. The resistance did not last long, and the Jakels soon converted to Islam. Until 1829, representatives of the family remained at the Sultan's court and in the empire in the status of hereditary pashas.
This is a church that has several other names - the Holy Sign of Zarekhni and Surb Vardanants. An Armenian dome-type temple built in the 15th century. on a hill in the Marda quarter.
Historians have not yet established the exact date of the foundation of the temple. The church performed its functions until the mid-19th century, although for several centuries the temple was in complete desolation and oblivion. A new temple on the site of the old one was built in the 1860s, when military ensign Vardan Vardanants received consent and permission from the city administration to build a church.
Between the cities of Akhaltsikhe and Borjomi there is a beautiful architectural monument built in the 10th century. This is the center of ancient pilgrimage and worship in Georgia. In the 14th century, a small church became part of the church complex, which completed architectural ensemble Monastery of St. George. The reconstruction of the monastery - the largest one - took place in the early 2000s.
Now the monastery receives pilgrims, is a functioning monastery, and constantly receives tourists. The temple is built of stone and has the shape of a basilica with three naves, the interior is made to resemble antiquity. Next to the basilica there is a two-story chapel, on which you can see the image of St. George defeating a whale.
There is a park in the gorge of the Batsari River, which flows through the Akhmeta municipality. It has national status, being part of the Main Caucasian Range. The total area of this protected area is 3 thousand hectares. The park was created in order to protect the unique relict yew forest, which scientists have studied for many years.
Yew grows everywhere in the park, and local residents consider this type of tree sacred. Sometimes yew trees grow together with linden, maple or ash trees. Many representatives of the fauna found in the park are included in the Red Book.
Geographically, the reservoir belongs to the territory of the Javakheti Park. Lake Hozapini itself was formed on an ancient volcanic plateau. The reservoir is also famous for the fact that the Turkish-Georgian border passes through it.
Khozapini is surrounded on different sides by mountains, the slopes of which are covered with grass and mountain flowers. There is only one settlement not far from the lake - the village of Kartsakhi. The residents' houses are built on the banks of the Kura, right near the border with Turkey.
It is a symbol of Rabat and a reflection of Turkish rule in Georgia. It was erected in the 18th century and was named in honor of Pasha Ahmed. The dome of the mosque was covered with gold. In 1828, the fortress was captured by the Russian army, after which Muslim temple was converted into an Orthodox church.
The church that arose on the site of the mosque was consecrated in honor of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. After the departure of the Russian army, the temple was returned to Georgia, but services are not held here. The building received the status of a historical and architectural monument, open to tourists and scientists.
Once in the Rabat fortress, travelers first see this church. The rear ones were erected before the Turks captured Rabat in 1578.
Bullet marks are clearly visible on the walls of the temple, and ancient carvings are on the bell tower. A stone drum was built into one of the walls of the building. Near the temple there are stone fragments, many of which are covered with carvings and various inscriptions.
At the crossroads of history three countries: Georgia, Turkey and Armenia are the Georgian city of Akhaltsikhe, the center of cultural and tourist life of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region.
Georgia unique country. Twelve regions with varied landscapes and history are located in a small area. Samtskhe-Javakheti, where we are going after Kutaisi, borders Armenia and Turkey and their influence on the region is enormous.
Many Armenians live here, perhaps even more than Georgians, because Samtskhe-Javakheti was part of great Armenia for more than 1000 years.
The main investors in the region are Turks. They build hydroelectric power stations and gas pipelines, help with infrastructure, not for free, of course. Most likely, domination over the region in the 15th-18th centuries haunted them and they decided at all costs to regain their influence, taken away by the valiant Russian army in the 19th century. Part of the territory of Samtskhe-Javakheti, by the way, with some ancient monasteries and temples, was never liberated and remained on the territory of Turkey; Georgians still talk about this with sadness.
Akhaltsikhe city, Georgia.
The main city of Samtskhe-Javakheti is Akhaltsikhe with a population of about 20,000 people. This is where we chose to base ourselves and get to know this region. We arrived in Akhaltsikhe from Kutaisi. The distance from Kutaisi to Akhaltsikhe is about 200 kilometers, approximately the same as Tbilisi - Akhaltsikhe. Traveling such a distance by taxi is not a cheap option, so our choice fell on a minibus. We buy a ticket at the Kutaisi bus station (18 GEL per person) and in just over three hours we find ourselves in Akhaltsikhe.
Kutaisi - Akhaltsikhe.
Driving a minibus in Georgia is a separate story, but to hear it you need your own experience.
There were few people in our minibus at the beginning of the journey; along the way, the number of passengers either increased or decreased, and we even managed to communicate with some of them. For some time, a beekeeper rode next to me. He took the queen to his apiary, showed it to me and boasted about his honey. At one stop, the woman asked the driver to take large bags of empty cans along the way; apparently she wanted to give them to someone in Akhaltsikhe. Without waiting for a positive answer, she began placing trunks around the minibus, and so that they would not break, she handed them to us and our fellow traveler. The driver interrupted this whole process and, amid loud joint bickering, forced the woman to take the cans back.
In a word, we didn’t have to get bored on the minibus. What was worth it was that before each overtaking our driver began to cross himself. At such moments you think about the frailty of life and how everything depends on chance.
Thank God our trip went well. A taxi took us from the Akhaltsikhe bus station to our hotel, booked in Russia through booking, for three lari.
Hotel Almi, Akhaltsikhe.
We liked Hotel Almi, Akhaltsikhe very much, and not only because my birthday fell on the days of my stay at the hotel and the friendly hotel staff made me a real holiday with songs, dances and fireworks:
But also because Hotel Almi is one of best places in Akhaltsikhe!
The furnishings and renovations are new, tasteful, the cleaning is top notch, there is a beautiful view of the fortress from the windows.
Breakfast is included in the room rate. They take place in a beautiful local area.
You can have lunch or dinner at any time (be sure to order the fried fish), the menu is varied, the food is simply to die for. Only hotel guests eat in the restaurant, and since there are only a few rooms, the service is almost individual. So we dined twice in splendid isolation.
Very good value for money. If you want to enjoy excellent service and a family atmosphere, this is the place for you!!! Once again, many thanks to the friendly Almi family for our vacation!!!
One of the advantages of Hotel Almi is its location. It is located between two streets: Kostava ( the main street city) and Natenadze. The streets run parallel to each other, then unite into one and lead to the main attraction of Akhaltsikhe - the Rabat fortress.
The distance from the hotel to the fortress, if you walk along Kostava Street, is only one and a half kilometers, and along the way there are many attractions of Akhaltsikhe, so you won’t be bored. Let's go for a walk around Akhaltsikhe!
Since we had several walks along this route: both during the day and in the evening, there will be photos of Akhaltsikhe: both during the day and in the evening.
Map of Akhaltsikhe.
Before I begin the story about the walk around the city, I suggest you familiarize yourself with the map of our route.
Sights of Akhaltsikhe.
Thanks to Saakashvili, a global reconstruction was carried out in Akhaltsikhe at the beginning of the 21st century, which solemnly ended on August 17, 2012 in the renovated Rabat fortress. Thanks to the reconstruction, roads were repaired, new administrative buildings, supermarkets, hotels were built, and parks were put in order.
The next street that is worth paying attention to is Ladze Street. It leads straight to the Armenian Catholic church. The temple is unusual in that it is Catholic. Construction of the Church of the Holy Sign on this site began in the 15th – 16th centuries, but by the 19th century it was completely destroyed. At the expense of the Armenian Vardan, the temple was rebuilt in 1861. IN Soviet time was used as a theater, as evidenced by the painted walls and the remains of a stage inside the temple.
Tamaroba.
The main holiday of Akhaltsikhe – Tamaroba passes May 14 on the day of remembrance of the holy Queen Tamara. The residents of Akhaltsikhe have a special relationship with Tamara, so the holiday is celebrated on a grand scale.
The special relationship is confirmed by the main monument of Akhaltsikhe, dedicated to the queen. The monument to Tamara, together with the new Church of the Ascension, is located at the intersection of Kostava and Didimamishvili streets.
Let's continue our way to the fortress. Along the road from Kostava Street, small streets with old buildings branch off to the right and then to the left.
Newer and restored buildings are located along Kostava Street itself.
While walking we came across a car with these license plates. You can see funny license plates on cars in Georgia quite often. Under Saakashvili, it became possible to order all criminal numbers officially, without bribes, by paying a certain amount to the budget.
We were accompanied throughout the walk beautiful views to the Rabat fortress. And the closer we approached the fortress, the larger it became, turning into a huge stone giant.
We cross the bridge over the Potskhovi River, which separates Akhaltsikhe into a flat part and a mountainous one. The mountainous part of the city is older.
After crossing the bridge we find ourselves on the noisiest street in Akhaltsikhe - Tamarashvili. It goes through federal highway to Turkey and the Akhaltsikhe – Batumi road.
Here is the new Palace of Justice of Akhaltsikhe, bus and railway stations, and the main supermarket of the city Smart.
There are taxis constantly on duty in the square under the fortress, as well as at the bus station, with whom you can arrange trips to the sights of Samtskhe-Javakheti. So we visited the Green Monastery, Vardzia.
From the square along a winding road, along newly restored houses, we rise to the oldest part of Akhaltsikhe - to the Rabat fortress.
Akhaltsikhe fortress.
The main attraction of the Georgian city of Akhaltsikhe is the Rabat fortress. Before the city restoration, the fortress was in such a deplorable state that instead of restoration, the fortress had to be rebuilt. It turned out, in our opinion, very well, although, according to local residents, almost nothing in common with the old fortress remains.
Inside, the fortress is divided into two parts.
Open: Tue-Sun 10:00-19:00, Mon. - day off. Entrance to its territory is paid - 7 GEL for an adult, 4 for a student, 1 for a child under 12 years old.
Rabat Akhaltsikhe.
Rabat means “fortified monastery” in Arabic. All Arab fortresses were called this way, and the name Rabat became attached to the Akhaltsikhe fortress as its own name. In the fortress, a lot has been done in the Arabic style, or rather even in the Moorish style. Those who have been to the city of Granada, Spain will agree with me. Rabat is very similar in style to the Spanish Alhambra.
There is also some similarity with the walls of Jerusalem,
and its Temple Mount, dominated by a gilded mosque.
Ahmediye Mosque.
Russian historian of the Russian-Turkish war of 1828-1829. Vasily Aleksandrovich Potto in his book “The Caucasian War” wrote in detail about the history and structure of the Akhmediye mosque. He noted that the Ahmedie Mosque, or, as it is also called by the name of its founder, the Ahmed Pasha Mosque, was built in the 16th century in the likeness of the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople.
Ahmed Pashi.
Potto, relying on historical data and legends, described the fate of Ahmed Pasha. Ahmed Pashi was from the noble Georgian family of Jakeli. During the conquest of his lands Ottoman Empire he had to convert to Islam. Having built a mosque, in its center he ordered to establish a hill for himself, which was in violation of Islamic canons. According to the canons, only the Sultan had this right; Ahmed Pashi was found guilty of insulting the padishah and sentenced to strangulation. Ahmed Pashi personally carried out the sentence, and his subjects paid great honor to his body.
Potto devoted the fourth volume of his book to a description of the battles for Akhaltsikhe, where valiant Russian warriors defeated the Turks.
The crown of the Rabat fortress is the Jakeli Castle, from the tower of which a stunning view of Akhaltsikhe and the fortress buildings opens.
Akhaltsikhe Museum.
At the foot of the castle you can go to the Samtskhe-Javakheti Museum, which displays archaeological finds and rarities. The advantage of the museum is that you do not need to buy a separate ticket to the museum, but the disadvantages include the lack of lighting in the rooms and the ban on photography.
In terms of time, visiting the Rabat fortress requires at least two hours and better time Choose to visit on weekdays, since many tourists from Tbilisi come on weekends. Our visit fell on a weekday and besides us, there were only a dozen people in the large territory of the fortress.
In a mountainous area, right on the coast picturesque river Potskhovi, surrounded by majestic ridges lies the city of Akhaltsikhe. A small settlement (about 18 thousand people) is the center of the amazing region of Georgia - Samtskhe-Javakheti. That's what they call it southern part state, reminiscent of the ancient “island” that attracts tourists so much. And it is not surprising that when you come to this region, you are faced with the rich heritage of different peoples. The southern border of Javakheti is Armenia and Türkiye, the western border is Adjara, and the eastern border is Kvemo Kartli.
Historical reference
The “fate” of Akhaltsikhe is very dramatic; for many centuries, bloody wars flared up here, the settlement came under the authority of different states. Previously, the city was called Lomisia and was the possession of the famous princely family of Jakeli (900). Militant members of the clan constantly provoked armed conflicts, trying to become independent from the central government.
But Tamara (Queen of Georgia) ended the conflict by pacifying the warring princes and transferring the city into the possession of the same family, but of another line, Jakeli. The famous commander (he was canonized) Shalva Akhaltsikheli was born into this family.
For about 300 years, the settlement was the capital of the Principality of Samtskhe, which declared its independence. But at the end of the 16th century, the Turks conquered the city and ruled in these areas for a long time. In 1828, the settlement was besieged by the Russian army, which expelled the invaders. In the 19th century, Jews and Armenians began to actively populate the city. 1918 was marked for Akhaltsikhe by an attack by the Turkish army, which held the city for several months.
–memory of centuries
The main attraction of the city, located on a hill in the central part of the settlement. The lower part of the fortification is a public area where you can explore the beauty of the structure, admire the towers and huge walls. The visit is free.
In the lower part there is a good hotel “Rabat”, an overnight stay will cost 50 lari ($18.5). There is an opportunity to visit wine shop KTW has a great selection of drinks.
The upper part of the fortress is a museum area; a fascinating excursion costs 7 lari ($2.59). The lower part of the fortress can be visited around the clock and free of charge, the upper part is from 10.00 to 19.00, and the museum is open until 18.00.
Tourist information office
It is located directly on the territory of the Rabat fortress. Address: st. Kharisshirashvili, 1. You will always be greeted by a friendly manager, he will willingly share maps of the city, sell tickets to the museum part of the fortification, and tell you the location of other attractions of Akhaltsikhe.
Georgian Catholic monastery
The northern part of the city is “guarded” by a mountain whose height reaches 1120m. This natural fortification is called the Northern Heights. You can get there by taxi along a dirt road. Drivers will be happy to deliver you for 5 GEL ($1.85), from the center it’s literally a 15-minute drive. The mountain looks very picturesque, it is planted with trees, you can have a picnic and admire the city from above.
The main attraction is the Georgian Catholic Monastery. The temple building was built almost at the same height as the Rabat fortification, which predetermined its fate. In 1828, bloody battles broke out here between the Turks and Russians, and the monastery was practically destroyed. Today, on the site of the old building, a new monastery in the Benedictine style, and the ancient heritage is reminiscent of the gravestones in the courtyard with amazing ornaments. The Turkish bastion was almost completely wiped off the face of the earth, and a new building was built in its place. Visiting the site is free.
Armenian temple
Another temple is clearly visible from the northern height. It is badly destroyed, there is information that it belonged to the Armenians, its name has not been precisely established. It was probably built in the 18th century. Today only the walls remain temple complex, gable roof, semicircular vault of the church made of wood. Nearby there is a small bell tower (west side), a wooden dome. Ancient temple stands on the slope of the Eastern ravine of the city. You can admire Akhaltsikhe and the Northern Heights; in winter there is a stunning view of the snow-capped Turkish ridges.
You need to get there on foot - from the Rabat fortress, move to Kazbegi Street, completely overcome it, and then follow the dirt road up. The walk will take about 1 hour. The visit is free.
Church of St. Marina (Marine)
This church is located to the west of the fortification on a high hill. The Orthodox church was erected at the end of the 19th century on the site of an older religious building. Appearance buildings are not very attractive. Tourists are more interested in the shrine - fragments of the relics of Marine, which are preserved here. The decoration of the church is not rich, but elegant, the walls are painted with icons. Nearby there is a high bell tower. Although the temple is active, it is often closed to visitors (it is free). You can get there on foot from the fortress, moving to the west of the city, in about 30 - 40 minutes.
Ruins of Turkish baths
Moving from the fortress to the northwest and not reaching the Catholic monastery, you can see the “legacy” of the Turkish conquerors - the famous baths. Today they are just large gray domes that rise above the ground. The 2 brick half-vaults resemble a single structure with the facade, and there is a hint of a pre-existing temple structure. Information reached us that the baths were built right on the site of the Christian church (on the foundation) from its rubble. The area nearby is almost overgrown with grass, but the Akhaltsikhe authorities plan to restore the buildings and open a museum here. Today the visit is free.
Jewish Quarter (Akhaltsikhe)
This is a small area, which is lost in the old part of the settlement behind its Eastern ravine. Many Jews used to live here, but today they have practically left, “giving up” the quarter to the Armenians. Of interest to tourists are the old synagogues (there are 2 of them)
Akhaltsikhe Old Synagogue - erected under the Turks in the 1740s. You should definitely visit this ancient monument of Akhaltsikhe and admire the architecture. The synagogue is closed, inspection is free. Restoration and opening of the museum is planned. How to get there - move from the fortress along Guramishvili Street to the east. To the left of this street the Jewish quarter begins. Not far from the old building, if you move to the south, a second synagogue was erected (in 1865), it is still in operation today, visiting is free.
If you want to see the old Jewish cemetery, move north from the synagogues, it is located immediately behind the Armenian cemetery. True, it is difficult to penetrate and see the monuments - Jewish burial sites are surrounded by a large high fence, and the gates are almost always closed. You'll have to climb over the walls, but it's worth it - huge sarcophagi, " stone chests", beautiful monuments.
Queen Tamara–symbol of Georgia
And, of course, in Akhaltsikhe there is a monument and temple dedicated to this cult personality. The queen did a lot for ancient state and settlements in particular. It was she who handed over the city to the Jakeli family, who were able to resist many invaders.
The Temple of Queen Tamara (built in 2009 - 2010) is a small monumental building in light colors. The decoration of the church is restrained; the iconostasis in the center of the temple deserves special attention. The altar shimmers with gold, on the walls there are traditional paintings depicting Tamara and other important people of Georgia. In front of the temple there is a huge monument to the Queen. She sits on a throne, holding a symbol of power. Both objects are located at the address: st. Kostava (literally 500 m from the center and fortress).
Sapara Monastery–sights of Georgia
If you come to Akhaltsikhe, be sure to visit this amazing temple complex. It is located just 10 km from the center of the settlement. Several buildings have been preserved on the territory of the monastery. The oldest is the Church of the Assumption (built in the 10th century). It is decorated with ancient columns. Nearby is a domed temple from the 13th century. Moving along the hillside you can see the fortification; 3 towers and a low stone wall have been preserved. The lower part of the slope is crowned with the ruins of ancient cells; they were carved right into the rock and framed with stones.
Nearby is the largest temple of the complex - the Church of St. Saba (13th century). Two more small ones were erected near the main building. It’s interesting, but all the churches have heavy stone slabs instead of roofs. The main dome over the bell tower was also constructed.
It’s better to get there by taxi; the trip will cost about 25 lari ($9.25). There are no direct buses from the bus station; sometimes tourists hire a minibus here for excursions (about 3 GEL ($1.11) per person).
But there is another option - a hike. From the city center you need to walk about 2 km, moving along Rustaveli Street ( east direction). At the end of it there is a turn to the village of Khreli (though there are no signs), but from the road you will see the village. You will have to climb steeply up a dirt road onto a large slope. After covering 2.5 km, you will reach a picturesque pass, where you can admire the beautiful mountains and a low ridge. The pass is an excellent platform that will allow you to see a stunning panorama of the surrounding area of the city and Akhaltsikhe itself. Just beyond the pass is the village of Khreli, where you can drink very tasty water from the spring, and beyond the highway enjoy the clean air and the aroma of a pine forest. From the village to the temple complex you need to walk another 3 km - the road is flat, without climbs. The tour is free.
Getting your bearings in the city
The Potskhovi (a tributary of the mighty Kura) flows through the settlement. This waterway and busy highway divided Akhaltsikhe into two large areas. Left bank – hilly Northern part settlements and the Right Bank - southern terrain without sharp changes.
The main landmark of the city is the fortification of Rabat. There is a small area near it, which is a kind of interchange for transport.
The main road is st. Tamarashvili, directly under the fortress hill, there is a bus station on it. From the square you can turn under the bridge (railway) and you find yourself on the mountain at the entrance to the fortress. You need to get to the right bank - we cross the Potskhovi Bridge and find ourselves on Kostava Street - a 15-minute walk. Along the route you will come across a small public garden, a monument to Queen Tamara and a temple of the same name. Go around the church on the left, and you are on Didimamishvili Street, the street runs parallel to it. Rustaveli (from it you can go to Vardzia).
If you go straight along Kostava Street and turn left, you can get to Nathanadze Street, after 100 meters you will come across a post office, and behind it there will be a park.
Walking around the park you can admire the Drama Theater, behind which there is a police building (Rustaveli Street).
Moving from the square along the street. Kostava you can walk 100m and turn right onto Ladze Street - you will get to the local market. There is always a lively atmosphere here, a lot of dairy products, cheeses, wines, clothes and souvenirs are sold. You can have a great bargain; sellers are happy to communicate with tourists and offer excellent discounts, especially on seasonal fruits and vegetables. After walking another 350 m along this street, you will reach the Armenian temple.
After a pleasant excursion, take care of an overnight stay - there are few hotels and guest houses in Akhaltsikhe, but they are quite worthy of the attention of guests. The price range is from 50 to 300 GEL per room (18.5 – 111 $).
When to come to Akhaltsikhe?
The best time to travel is spring. Everything is blooming, and the tops of the mountains are buried in snow caps. There is little rainfall in this area, but the winds often blow from the north, chilling to the bones. In April - May the weather is excellent, the temperature already reaches 18-25 C. You can admire the huge poppy fields, which are located right on the slopes of the mountains.
It is hot in summer, sometimes in July the temperature is set at 30-35C, and due to high humidity it feels as high as 45C. By the end of August, excursions become comfortable, there is no heat, you can safely climb hills and mountains, the temperature stays within 25-28 C.
Magnificent pictures appear before the eye in autumn - the mountains are painted in shades of yellow and red, and green fir trees complement the landscape. A light haze envelops the ridges, and the smells of the forest are in the air. Akhaltsikhe is a very clean and hospitable city, people are easy to get in touch with and are ready to explain everything even if they don’t speak Russian. A tourist feature is that there are very few objects here that you have to pay to visit. So you can save a lot of money. The optimal length of stay is 2–3 days, you will have time to see the city and its surroundings.
How to get to Akhaltsikhe?
Akhaltsikhe on the map of Georgia.
Akhaltsikhe is administrative center Samtskhe-Javakheti region. The city is small, has approximately 20 thousand inhabitants, mostly Georgians and Armenians. Located on the Potskhovi River, a tributary of the Kura, which divides Akhaltsikhe into two parts.
Georgians believe that it is impossible to come to Southern Georgia and not see Akhaltsikhe, . By the way, the name of the city means “New Fortress”. Akhaltsikhe - quite Old city, its age is more than eight centuries. The city once belonged to the Jakeli family and was called Lomsia. In the city and its environs, many ancient fortresses, temples, ruins of ancient buildings, monastery Sapara.
How to get there
Two highways pass through Akhaltsikhe - to Turkey and Batumi-Tbilisi. On Tamarashvili Square, which is located on the main city highway, there are two stations - a bus and a train station. Intra- and inter-district minibuses depart from the bus station, as well as 2 international flights to Armenia. In the latter case, these are flights to Yerevan, which can be reached for 25 GEL, and Gyumri (20 GEL).
A bus service connects Akhaltsikhe with major cities Georgia (Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, Borjomi, Gori, Rustavi, etc.). The fare ranges from 6 to 20 lari. Tickets for intra-district minibuses cost 2-3 GEL.
You can also get to Akhaltsikhe by Tbilisi train (for about $5) or by car. But motorists should take into account that Georgian roads leave much to be desired: they have not been repaired for many years, and may be absent in some areas road signs. Quantity gas stations insufficient, and the quality of gasoline is very poor.
Prices in local stores and hotels
There are both hotels and guesthouses in Akhaltsikhe. Although there are few of them, they are quite comfortable and inexpensive. You won’t find Soviet-built hotel buildings in the city - everything is very neat and inexpensive compared to Tbilisi. As for hostels, there are none as such, but the prices in some hotels are very economical.
The most pretentious hotel in Akhaltsikhe is considered to be “Rabati”. It is modern, new and quite expensive, located directly next to the Rabat fortress. Room prices range from 125 GEL for a single room to 315 GEL for a suite.
Hotel "Lomsia" - city center, beautiful, modern, 63 rooms. Cost from 100 GEL (single room) to 325 GEL for luxury apartments.
Hotel "White House" is the very center of the city, designed for 70 guests, has all the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay.
Among the inexpensive options are the Meskheti Palace Hotel (city center, 60 GEL for a single room with breakfast up to 100 GEL for a suite), the Prestige Hotel (an old, experienced establishment with beautiful views from above, cost from 40 to 75 GEL), guesthouses “Popular” and “Edelweiss”.
As for prices, we can generally say that everything in Akhaltsikhe is quite affordable: both food and souvenirs. In particular, on the territory of the recently restored Rabat fortress, stores of such brands as Puma, Diesel, Pierre Cardin, Swatch, Mex, Beneton are concentrated. So shopping lovers can combine shopping and exploring the historical sights of the city.
Cafes and restaurants in the city
As in any Georgian city, Akhaltsikhe has such establishments, both with national Georgian cuisine, and modern cafes and bars. But still, if you come to Georgia, then it is best to take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy local dishes.
According to tourists, the best khinkali in the world is served in the Sergo restaurant, which is located near the Rabat fortress. You can eat to your heart's content for about 10 euros while listening to Georgian music and conversations from the hospitable host.
On the territory of the fortress itself there is a restaurant “Rabat” with a very unique design, in which Meskhetian and oriental styles are intertwined with the ultra-modern. Here you can taste dishes of Georgian and Meskhetian cuisine; the menu is compiled in three languages (Georgian, Russian and English). Two halls - Meskhetian (50 seats) and European (35 seats), compartments for 2-8 seats, VIP room (30 seats). Parking, Wi-Fi, all types of credit cards accepted, live music.
What to see in Akhaltsikhe
The main attraction of Akhaltsikhe is the Rabat fortress, restored in 2012. Having visited it, you begin to understand that it was not in vain that the ancient rulers chose this place as their residence - after all, there is such beauty here that it literally takes your breath away. In addition, the surrounding atmosphere still reminds of the great events that took place here many centuries ago. is 3,650m.
And since Rabat is located directly in the center, an amazing contrast is created between fortified buildings and modern buildings. A visit to the Rabat fortress is included in the compulsory program tourist routes in Georgia. But Rabat is not only fortresses, churches, towers, mosques and cells. This and modern complex with business establishments, hotels, restaurants and shops.
The city has an Armenian Catholic church, a local history museum, and a monument to Queen Tamara, who is the patroness of Akhaltsikhe and is revered by the townspeople as a saint.
A few kilometers from Akhaltsikhe there is another attraction - the active monastery of Sapara (Safara). Translated, this word means “hidden.” The monastery was built in the 10th-11th centuries. It took a long time to be restored, and is currently open to the public (you can even stay overnight). Amazing frescoes have been preserved on the monastery walls, and in general this is a place where a unique spirit of antiquity hovers.
The monastery is home to 20 monks who earn their living Agriculture and donations. To get to the monastery, you need to hire a taxi, since minibuses do not go here.
Other attractions include the Kokhta fortress, Shoreti monastery, Zarzma monastery, Atskuri fortress, Abastumani sanatorium and the observatory of the same name. You can get to the city of Borjomi, cave city Varadzia, Lake Tabatskuri. All this is within a very accessible distance.
From the history of the city
The history of the city begins in the first half of the 12th century. From the 14th to almost the end of the 16th century. Akhaltsikhe was political, economic and cultural center Samtskhe-Javakheti. The residence of the atabegs of Jakeli was located here.
In the second half of the 16th century. (1579) Akhaltsikhe fell under the rule of the Turks, and in 1628 it became the main city of the Akhaltsikhe province of the Ottoman Empire.
In 1810, Russian soldiers under the leadership of General Tormasov besieged Akhaltsikhe. Ten days later they had to retreat. They found themselves in Borjomi Gorge, where they were lucky enough to discover mineral springs, which later became famous throughout the world.
As a result of the Peace of Adrianople (1829), the Akhaltsikhe fortress became part of the Russian Empire.
