Narikala Fortress (Tbilisi City)
Narikala Fortress (Georgian: ნარიყალას ციხე). One of the most famous and oldest monuments of Georgia’s cultural heritage. It is located on Mount Mtatsminda (Georgian: მთაწმინდა), from the height of which an incredibly breathtaking panorama of the entire city opens up. In addition to its historical significance, Narikala is distinguished by its beautiful architecture and is invariably a favorite attraction for travelers, with unique views of Tbilisi and an even more amazing history. The Tbilisi Citadel is a witness and participant in the centuries-old history of the capital of Georgia. Its walls and towers were repeatedly demolished, restored and rebuilt. The fragments of the castle buildings that have survived to this day date back to different periods.
The exact date of construction of the fortress is unknown, but according to chronicles, it already existed in the 4th century, under the name Shuris-Tsikhe (Georgian: შურის ციხე). The fortress was a defensive structure of a complex system, difficult to access, fortified with powerful walls and towers. The fortress included a citadel, an inner fortress and a massive defensive wall. The elevated location of Narikala was ideal for timely detection of the enemy and protection of the city from his invasion. Until the Middle Ages, near the entrance tunnel there was a royal palace, which was later destroyed. After one and a half thousand years, the city has grown significantly, and Narikala still stands majestically above it, continuing to keep within its walls the rich history of Georgia.
City of Tbilisi (Georgian: ქალაქი თბილისი), Municipality of Tbilisi (Georgian: თბილისის მუნიციპალიტეტი)