This region of Southern Georgia is still so underrated! Everyone knows about Tbilisi and Adjara (Batumi), but what does Samtskhe-Javakheti say to you? We want to improve the situation and invite you to visit the regional museum.

It is located inside of an impressive fortress in Akhaltsikhe town that literally means “New Castle”. The name appeared in the XII century, when the noble Jakeli family financed the construction of the castle. Obviously, it was brand new at the time!

And even today it looks almost as good as new, having been renovated throughout following heavy damage from Mongolian and Ottoman invasions in the XIV – XV centuries, as well as during the Russo-Turkish war in 1828. After the war and up to the end of the XX century, the place was abandoned due to border issues between Turkey and Russia and the early years of Georgian independence were dedicated to solving morecomplex problems than the renovation of a historical fortress. Only in 2011-2012 did Rabati (its Arabic name) regain its glory.

The museum is located in the palace building and offers a rich exposition of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts that help you understand this region much better. Plus, the location is extraordinary beautiful!