Khertvisi Fortress

Jack and I also visited Khertvisi Fortress, perhaps Georgia's most impressive non-restored castle. Khertvisi was first built in the 2nd century BC, and it was supposedly captured by Alexander the Great (4th century BC, so this is unlikely), the Mongols (13th century), and the Turks (16th century). It took its current form in the 14th century when the Jaqeli family ruled Samtskhe, though the Turks made some additions.

Khertvisi Fortress is important because it is located at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Paravani Rivers, the two largest rivers in Samtskhe.

These holes were used to shoot arrows and pour boiling liquids on assailants.

The villagers house cows in the fortress during the winter. Yes, this is a room filled with dung.

There is a small Georgian church being remodeled within the castle.

Of course there's a secret entrance...

... and it's a dead end.

We were able to climb down the cliff.