Discover a slice of historic Georgia in and around Akhaltsikhe, a town centred on a magnificent fortress which gives the name to the town, literally ‘new fortress’. Situated close to Borjomi and accessible directly by bus from Tbilisi, this town is an ideal base for anyone looking to visit plenty of historic castles, churches and monasteries.

Set high above the town center is the impressive Rabati Castle. This monumental fortress dates from the 9th century and was heavily remodeled in Ottoman times. The current buildings date mostly from the 18th and 19th centuries and withstood an attempt to take the town by the Russian Empire in 1810 finally succumbing to a siege in 1828. The visitor facilities have been recently updated to ensure an interesting and enjoyable visit.

Synagogue by Poemas del Rio Wang  

The town is also home to two synagogues. These are remnants of the Georgian Jewish minority who once lived in the town, now reduced to just a handful of worshippers. The upper synagogue has been recently renovated and is open throughout the summer season and is well worth visiting for its beautiful wooden interior and historic artifacts. The other major place of worship in the town is the Amaghleba Church, in front of which stands a statue in honor of ‘King’ (or Queen) Tamar, the 12th century Georgian ruler.

Venturing out of town, the Sapara monastery is only 11 km away and makes for a pleasant hike into the lush green hills, or a short journey by car. The monastery itself is dedicated to St. Saba and is the centerpiece of a group of 12 churches, the oldest of which is the 10th century church dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin. The monastery was abandoned in the 16th and 17th centuries when the Ottoman Empire expanded into this region and the icons and other treasures were taken hidden the mountains for safe-keeping.

Sapara Monastery by 'Georgian Holidays'

Adventurous hikers will enjoy walking from the village of Uraveli up to the ruins of the Agara monastery and the Enteli stoneman idol, or an alternative nearby route runs up to the abandoned church of Baiebi which is cut directly into a rock face. Jeep tours to these places are also available from local companies.

Staying in Akhaltsikhe places you within striking distance of the spectacular Khertvisi Fortress, one of the oldest in Georgia, sited high on a rocky outcrop above the confluence of the rivers Mtkvari and Paravani, and of the monastery and rock-hewn town at Vardzia, both of which have been submitted for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

By Tom Pinnegar

Main photo: Rabati castle by 'Cya on the road'