Nikhakhi Fortress (Region of Tao)
Nikhahi Fortress (Georg. ნიხახის ციხე, Tur. Nihahi Kalesi) – medieval fortress in the historical region of Georgia – Tao (Georg. ტაო), near the historical Georgian village – Nikhahi (Georg. ნიხახი), now Yokuslu (Tour. Yokuşlu). The fortress was built on the right bank of the Chorokhi River (Georg. ჭოროხი), on a rocky hill, about 900 meters above sea level. The plan of the fortress is determined by the relief of this rock. The fortress was an important fortification and from the very beginning performed an important defensive function. It provided protection for the road connecting the historical regions of Georgia – Speri (Georg. სპერი) and Tao.
Nikhakhi Fortress was built in an easily accessible place, at the crossroads of important trade routes. Due to its easily accessible location, the fortress was especially well fortified with walls and could withstand many days of siege. The main fortification of the castle, a quadrangular and multi-storey tower, was built in its eastern part. In the eastern part, the ruins of the once mighty cylindrical tower have also been preserved. The main gate, located in the south, has defensive towers on both sides. The protective wall with loopholes, which at one time surrounded the castle along the entire perimeter, was completely destroyed. The inner territory of the castle was excavated by Turkish gold diggers.
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