Population
According to the All-Russian census of 1897, 15.357 people lived in the city of Akhaltsikh, of which:
- Armenians - 9.035 (58.8%)
- Georgians - 3.576 (23.3%)
- Russians - 1.172 (7.6%)
- Jews - 438 (2.9%)
- Ukrainians - 404 (2.6%)
- Poles - 345 (2.2%)
- Tatars - 108 (0.7%)
- Lithuanians - 73 (0.5%)
- Turks - 59 (0.04%)
- Germans - 53 (0.03%)
- Ossetians - 11 (0.07%)
- Assyrians - 10 (0.07%)
- Greeks - 10 (0.07%)
- Chechens - 8 (0.05%)
- Avars - 6 (0.04%)
- Belarusians - 4 (0.03%)
- Persians - 4 (0.03%)
- Czechs - 4 (0.03%)
- Latvians - 3 (0.02%)
- French - 2 (0.01%)
- Kurds - 1 (0.007%)
- Lezgins - 1 (0.007%)
- Chuvash - 1 (0.007%)
The population of the city in January 2016 was 14,000 people, in January 2014 - 20,000 people, in 2002 - 18,500 people, in January 1989 - 24,570 people.
History
Founded in the first half of the 12th century A.D. NS. From the 14th century to the 80s of the 16th century, Akhaltsikhe was the center of culture, politics and economy of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region and the residence of Atabegs from the Dzhakeli clan. In 1579 the city fell under the rule of the Ottoman Empire and in 1628 the city became the center of the Akhaltsikhe province of Tur. Ahıska Ottoman Empire.
sights
Gallery
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Akaltsykh from Winkler.jpg
Historical coat of arms of the city, 1843
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- // Encyclopedic Dictionary of Brockhaus and Efron: in 86 volumes (82 volumes and 4 additional). - SPb. , 1890-1907.
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In a mountainous area, on the very bank of the picturesque Potskhovi River, surrounded by majestic ridges, lies the city of Akhaltsikhe. A small settlement (about 18 thousand hours) is the center of the amazing region of Georgia - Samtskhe-Javakheti. This is the name of the southern part of the state, which resembles an ancient "island" that attracts tourists so much. And no wonder, getting to this region, you come across a rich heritage of different peoples. The southern border of Javakheti is Armenia and Turkey, the western border is Adjara, and the eastern border is Kvemo Kartli.
Historical reference
The “fate” of Akhaltsikhe is very dramatic, for many centuries bloody wars flared up here, the settlement passed under the rule of different states. Previously, the city was called Lomisia, was the possession of the famous princely family Dzhakeli (900 g). Militant clan members constantly provoked armed conflicts, trying to become independent from the central government.
But Tamara (the queen of Georgia) ended the conflict by pacifying the warring princes and transferring the city to the possession of the same clan, but his other line, Jakeli. The famous commander (he was canonized) Shalva Akhaltsikheli was born in this family.
For about 300 years, the settlement was the capital of the Samtskhe principality, which declared its independence. But at the end of the 16th century, the Turks conquered the city, and for a long time ruled in these parts. In 1828 the settlement was besieged by the Russian army, which drove out the invaders. In the 19th century, the city was actively populated by Jews and Armenians. 1918 was marked for Akhaltsikhe by the attack of the Turkish army, which held the city for several months.
–memory of centuries
The main attraction of the city, located on a hill in the central part of the settlement. The lower part of the fortification is a public area where you can see the beauty of the building, admire the towers and huge walls. The visit is free.
In the lower part there is a good hotel "Rabat", an overnight stay will cost 50 lari ($ 18.5). There is an opportunity to visit the wine shop "KTW", there is an excellent selection of drinks.
The upper part of the fortress is a museum territory, a fascinating excursion costs 7 lari ($ 2.59). The lower part of the fortress can be visited around the clock and free of charge, the upper part - from 10.00 to 19.00, and the museum is open until 18.00.
Office tourist information
It is located directly on the territory of the Rabat fortress. Address: st. Kharisshirashvili, 1. A friendly manager will always meet you, he will willingly share maps of the city, sell tickets to the museum part of the fortification, tell you the location of other attractions in Akhaltsikhe.
Georgian Catholic monastery
The northern part of the city is "guarded" by a mountain whose height reaches 1120m. This natural fortification is called the Northern Height. You can get there by taxi along a dirt road. Drivers will gladly take you for 5 GEL ($ 1.85), literally 15 minutes drive from the center. The mountain looks very picturesque, it is planted with trees, you can have a picnic and admire the city from above.
The main attraction is the Georgian Catholic Monastery. The temple structure was built almost at the same height as the Rabat fortification, which predetermined its fate. In 1828 bloody battles between Turks and Russians broke out here, and the monastery was practically destroyed. Today, on the site of the old building, a new monastery was erected in the Benedictine style, and about ancient heritage resemble gravestones in the courtyard with amazing ornaments. The Turkish bastion was almost completely wiped off the face of the earth, and a new building was erected in its place. Visiting the facility is free.
Armenian temple
Another temple is clearly visible from the Northern Heights. It is badly destroyed, there is information that it belonged to the Armenians, its name has not been precisely established. It was built presumably in the 18th century. Today, only the walls have survived temple complex, gable roof, semicircular vault of the church made of wood. Nearby is a small bell tower (west side), a wooden dome. Ancient temple stands on the slope of the Eastern ravine of the city. You can admire Akhaltsikhe and the Northern Heights; in winter, a stunning view of the snow-capped Turkish ridges opens up.
You need to get there on foot - from the Rabat fortress, move to Kazbegi street, completely overcome it, and then go up the dirt road. The walk will take about 1 hour. The visit is free.
Church of St. Marina (Marine)
This church is located to the west of the fortification on a high hill. The Orthodox church was erected at the end of the 19th century on the site of a more ancient religious building. The appearance of the building attracts little. Tourists are more interested in the shrine - fragments of the relics of Marine, which are preserved here. The decoration of the church is not rich, but exquisite, the walls are painted with icons. Nearby is a high bell tower. Although the temple is active, it is often closed to the public (it is free). You can get there on foot from the fortress, moving to the west of the city, in about 30 - 40 minutes.
Ruins of Turkish Baths
Moving from the fortress to the north-west and not reaching the Catholic monastery, you can see the "legacy" of the Turkish conquerors - the famous baths. Today they are just large gray domes that rise above the ground. 2 brick semi-vaults resemble a single building with a facade, and there is a hint of a pre-existing temple structure. It was reported that the baths were built right on the site of a Christian church (on the foundation) from its wreckage. The area nearby is practically overgrown with grass, but the Akhaltsikhe authorities are planning to restore the buildings and open a museum here. Today the visit is free.
Jewish quarter (Akhaltsikhe)
This is a small area that is lost in the old part of the settlement behind its Eastern ravine. Previously, many Jews lived here, but today they have practically left, having “conceded” the quarter to the Armenians. Old synagogues are of interest for tourists (there are 2 of them)
Akhaltsikhe Old Synagogue - erected under the Turks in the 1740s. You should definitely visit this ancient monument of Akhaltsikhe, admire the architecture. The synagogue is closed, inspection is free. The restoration and opening of the museum is planned. How to get there - move from the fortress along Guramishvili street to the east. The Jewish quarter begins to the left of this street. Not far from the old building, if you move to the south, a second synagogue was erected (in 1865), it still operates today, the visit is free.
If you want to see the old Jewish cemetery, move north from the synagogues, it is located right behind the Armenian cemetery. True, it is difficult to penetrate and see the monuments - Jewish burials are fenced off with a high overall fence, and the gates are almost always closed. We'll have to climb over the walls, but it's worth it - huge sarcophagi, "stone chests", beautiful monuments.
Queen Tamara–symbol of Georgia
And, of course, in Akhaltsikhe there is a monument and a temple dedicated to this cult personality. The queen did a lot for the ancient state and the settlement in particular. It was she who handed the city over to the Jakeli family, which was able to resist many invaders.
The Temple of Queen Tamar (built in 2009 - 2010) is a small monumental building in light colors. The decoration of the church is restrained; the iconostasis in the center of the church deserves special attention. The altar shimmers with gold, the walls are decorated with traditional paintings depicting Tamara and other important persons of Georgia. In front of the temple there is a huge monument to the Tsarina. She sits on the throne, holding a symbol of power. Both objects are located at st. Kostava (literally 500 m from the center and the fortress).
Sapara monastery–sights of Georgia
If you come to Akhaltsikhe, be sure to visit this amazing temple complex. It is located just 10 km from the center of the settlement. Several buildings have survived on the territory of the monastery. The oldest is the Church of the Assumption (built in the 10th century). It is decorated with antique columns. A domed temple of the 13th century is located nearby. Moving along the slope of the hill, you can see the fortification, 3 towers and a low stone wall have been preserved. The lower part of the slope is crowned with the ruins of ancient cells, they were carved right into the rock and framed with stones.
Nearby is the largest temple of the complex - the Church of St. Saba (13th century). Two more small ones were erected near the main building. Interestingly, all churches have heavy stone slabs instead of roofs. The main dome above the bell tower was also designed.
It is better to get there by taxi, the trip will cost about 25 lari ($ 9.25). There are no direct buses from the bus station, sometimes tourists hire a minibus here for excursions (about 3 lari ($ 1.11) per person).
But there is another option - a hike. From the city center you need to walk about 2 km, moving along Rustaveli Street ( east direction). At the end of it there is a turn to the village of Khreli (however, there are no signs), but from the road you will also see the village. We'll have to climb steeply up a dirt road to a large slope. Having overcome 2.5 km, you will come out to a picturesque pass, here you can admire the beautiful mountains and a low ridge. The pass is an excellent platform that will allow you to see a stunning panorama of the city's environs and Akhaltsikhe itself. Right behind the pass is the village of Khreli, where you can drink delicious water from the spring, and enjoy the clean air and the aroma of pine forest behind the road. From the village to the temple complex, you need to walk another 3 km - the road is flat, without ascents. The tour is free.
Orienting in the city
Potskhovi (a tributary of the mighty Kura) flows through the settlement. This waterway and busy highway divided Akhaltsikhe into two large area... The left bank is hilly Northern part settlements and the Right Bank - a southern area without sharp changes.
The main landmark of the city is the fortification of Rabat. There is a small area near it, which is a kind of traffic junction.
The main road is st. Tamarashvili, directly laid under the fortress hill, there is a bus station on it. From the square you can turn under the bridge (railway) and you find yourself on the mountain at the entrance to the fortress. You need to get to the right bank - we cross the Potskhovi bridge and find ourselves on Kostava street - 15 minutes walk. Along the route, you will meet a small park, a monument to Queen Tamara and a temple of the same name. Go around the church on the left, and you are on Didimamishvili street, parallel to it stretches the street. Rustaveli (from it you can go to Vardzia).
If you walk straight along Kostava Street and turn left, you can get to Natanadze Street, after 100 m you will come across a post office, and there will be a park behind it.
Walking around the park, you can admire the Drama Theater, behind which there is a police building (Rustaveli street).
Moving from the square along the street. Kostava, you can walk 100m and turn right, onto Ladze Street - you will get to the local market. There is always a lively atmosphere here, a lot of dairy products, cheeses, wines, clothes and souvenirs are sold. You can bargain well, sellers are happy to communicate with tourists, they make great discounts, especially on seasonal fruits and vegetables. After walking another 350 m along this street, you will reach an Armenian temple.
After a pleasant excursion, take care of an overnight stay - there are not many hotels and guest houses in Akhaltsikhe, but they are quite worthy of the guests' attention. The range of prices is from 50 to 300 GEL per room ($ 18.5 - $ 111).
When to come to Akhaltsikhe?
The best time to travel is spring. Everything blooms, and the tops of the mountains are buried in snow caps. There is little precipitation in this area, but the winds often blow from the north, piercing to the bone. In April - May the weather is excellent, the temperature already reaches 18-25 C. You can admire the huge poppy fields, which are spread right on the slopes of the mountains.
It is hot in summer, sometimes in July the temperature is set at around 30-35C, and due to high humidity it is felt at all 45C. By the end of August, excursions become comfortable, there is no heat, you can safely climb the hills and mountains, the temperature is kept within 25-28 C.
Magnificent paintings appear before the eyes in autumn - the mountains are painted in yellow and red shades, and green fir trees complement the landscape. A light haze envelops the ridges, the smells of the forest soar in the air. Akhaltsikhe is a very clean and hospitable city, people easily make contact, they are ready to explain everything even if they do not speak Russian. The tourist feature is that there are very few objects that you have to pay to visit. So you can save a lot. The optimal length of stay is 2-3 days, you will have time to see the city and its surroundings.
How to get to Akhaltsikhe?
Akhaltsikhe on the map of Georgia.
At intersection stories of three countries: Georgia, Turkey and Armenia is the Georgian city of Akhaltsikhe, the center of cultural and tourist life of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region.
Georgia unique country... In a small area, there are twelve regions with a varied landscape and history. Samtskhe-Javakheti, where we go after Kutaisi, borders with Armenia and Turkey and their influence on the region is enormous.
Many Armenians live here, perhaps even more than Georgians, because Samtskhe-Javakheti was a part of great Armenia for more than 1000 years.
The main investors in the region are Turks. They build hydroelectric power plants and gas pipelines, help with infrastructure, not for free, of course. Most likely, the domination over the region in the XV-XVIII centuries does not give them peace and they decided at all costs to regain their influence, taken away by the valiant Russian army in the XIX century. Part of the territory of Samtskhe-Javakheti, by the way, with some ancient monasteries and temples, was never liberated and remained on the territory of Turkey, Georgians still talk about this with sadness.
Akhaltsikhe city, Georgia.
The main city of Samtskhe-Javakheti is Akhaltsikhe with a population of about 20,000. It was he who we chose to base and get to know this region. We arrived in Akhaltsikhe from Kutaisi. The distance from Kutaisi to Akhaltsikhe is about 200 kilometers, approximately the same as Tbilisi - Akhaltsikhe. It is not possible to travel this distance by taxi cheap option, so our choice fell on the minibus. At the bus station in Kutaisi we buy a ticket (18 GEL per person) and in a little over three hours we find ourselves in Akhaltsikhe.
Kutaisi - Akhaltsikhe.
Traveling by minibus in Georgia is a separate song, but to hear it you need your own experience.
There were few people in our minibus at the beginning of the journey, along the way the number of passengers increased and decreased, with some we even managed to talk. For a while a beekeeper was riding next to me. He took the queen to his apiary, showed her to me and boasted about his honey. At one stop, a woman asked the driver to take large trunks of empty cans along the way, apparently she wanted to give them to someone in Akhaltsikhe. Without waiting for a positive answer, she began to place the trunks around the minibus, and so that they would not break, she handed them to us and our fellow traveler. The whole process was interrupted by the driver, and under loud joint squabbling forced the woman to take the cans back.
In a word, we did not have to get bored in the minibus. What was worth only the fact that before each overtaking our driver began to cross himself. At such moments you think about the frailty of life and how everything depends on the case.
Thank God our trip went well. From the Akhaltsikhe bus station to our hotel, ordered back in Russia through booking, a taxi took us for three lari.
Hotel Almi, Akhaltsikhe.
We liked Hotel Almi, Akhaltsikhe, and not only because my birthday fell on the days of my stay at the hotel and the friendly hotel staff made me a real holiday with songs, dances and fireworks:
But also because Hotel Almi is one of the best places in Akhaltsikhe!
The furnishings and renovations are new, tastefully done, cleaning is at a height, a beautiful view from the windows of the fortress.
Breakfasts are included in the room rate. They take place in a beautiful local area.
You can have lunch or dinner at any time (be sure to order fried fish), the menu is varied, the food is simply “lick your fingers”. Only hotel guests eat in the restaurant, and since there are few rooms, an almost individual service is obtained. So twice we dined in splendid isolation.
Very good value for money. If you want to enjoy excellent service and family atmosphere, come here !!! Again, thank you very much friendly Almi family for our holiday !!!
One of the advantages of Hotel Almi is its location. It is located between two streets: Kostava (the main street of the city) and Natenadze. The streets run parallel to each other, then merge into one and lead to the main attraction of Akhaltsikhe - the Rabat fortress.
The distance from the hotel to the fortress, if you walk along Kostava Street, is only one and a half kilometers, and along the way there are many attractions of Akhaltsikhe, so you will not be bored. Let's go for a walk around Akhaltsikhe!
Since we had several walks along this route: both during the day and in the evening, then there will be photos of Akhaltsikhe: both daytime and evening.
Map of Akhaltsikhe.
Before I start my story about walking around the city, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with the map of our route.
Sights of Akhaltsikhe.
Thanks to Saakashvili, a global reconstruction was carried out in Akhaltsikhe at the beginning of the 21st century, which solemnly ended on August 17, 2012 in the renovated Rabat fortress. Thanks to the reconstruction, roads were repaired, new administrative buildings, supermarkets, hotels were built, parks were put in order.
The next street worth paying attention to is Ladze Street. It leads directly to the Armenian Catholic Church. The temple is unusual in that it is Catholic. The construction of the Church of the Holy Sign on this site began in the 15th - 16th centuries, but already by XIX century it was completely destroyed. At the expense of the Armenian Vardan in 1861, the temple was rebuilt. In Soviet times, it was used as a theater, as evidenced by the painted walls and the remains of the scene inside the temple.
Tamaroba.
The main holiday of Akhaltsikhe – Tamaroba passes May 14 on the day of commemoration of the holy queen Tamara. The residents of Akhaltsikhe have a special attitude towards Tamara, so the holiday is held on a large scale.
A special attitude is also confirmed by the main monument of Akhaltsikhe, dedicated to the queen. The monument to Tamara, together with the new temple of the Ascension, is located at the intersection of Kostava and Didimamishvili streets.
Let's continue our way to the fortress. Along the road from Kostava Street, small streets with old buildings go to the right and then to the left.
Newer and more restored buildings are located along the street Kostava.
On a walk we met a car with such numbers. You can come across funny numbers on cars in Georgia quite often. Under Saakashvili, it became possible to order all thieves' numbers officially, without bribes, by paying a certain amount to the budget.
All the walk we were accompanied beautiful views to the Rabat fortress. And the closer we got to the fortress, the more it became, turning into a huge stone giant.
We pass along the bridge over the Potskhovi River, which divides Akhaltsikhe into a flat and mountainous part. The mountainous part of the city is older.
After crossing the bridge we find ourselves on the noisiest street in Akhaltsikhe - Tamarashvili. The federal highway to Turkey and the Akhaltsikhe-Batumi road pass along it.
There is a new Palace of Justice of Akhaltsikhe, a car and railway stations, the main supermarket of the city of Smart.
Taxis are constantly on duty on the square under the fortress, as well as at the bus station, with which you can arrange trips to the sights of Samtskhe-Javakheti. So we visited the Green Monastery, Vardzia.
From the square, along a winding road, along the newly restored houses, we rise to the oldest part of Akhaltsikhe - to the Rabat fortress.
Akhaltsikhe fortress.
The main attraction of the Georgian city of Akhaltsikhe is the Rabat fortress. Before the city restoration, the fortress was in such a deplorable state that, instead of restoration, the fortress had to be rebuilt anew. It turned out, in our opinion, very well, although, as they say locals, almost nothing to do with the old fortress remained.
Inside the fortress is divided into two parts.
Open: Tue-Sun 10: 00-19: 00, Mon. - day off. The entrance to its territory is paid - 7 lari for an adult, 4 for a student, 1 for a child under 12 years old.
Rabat Akhaltsikhe.
Translated from Arabic, rabat means “fortified monastery”. This was the name of all Arab fortresses, and to the Akhaltsikhe fortress the name Rabat was fixed as its own. Much has been done in the fortress in the Arabian style, more precisely, even in the Moorish one. Those who have been to the city of Granada, Spain will agree with me. The style of Rabat is very similar to the Spanish Alhambra.
There is also some similarity with the walls of Jerusalem,
and its Temple Mount, dominated by a gilded mosque.
Ahmedie Mosque.
Russian historian of the Russian-Turkish war of 1828-1829. Vasily Aleksandrovich Potto in his book "The Caucasian War" wrote in detail about the history and structure of the Akhmediyev mosque. He noted that the Ahmediye Mosque, or, as it is also called by the name of the founder, the Ahmed Pasha Mosque, was built in the 16th century in the likeness of the Hagia Sophia Cathedral in Constantinople.
Ahmed Pasha.
Potto, relying on historical data and legends, described the fate of Ahmed Pasha. Ahmed Pasha was from the noble Georgian family of Jakeli. During the conquest of his lands by the Ottoman Empire, he had to convert to Islam. Having built a mosque, in its center, he ordered to establish a hill for himself, which was in violation of Islamic canons. According to the canons, only the Sultan had such a right, Ahmed Pasha was found guilty of insulting the padishah and sentenced to strangulation. Ahmed Pasha personally brought the verdict into effect, and his subjects gave his body great honors.
The fourth volume of Potto's book was devoted to a description of the battles for Akhaltsikhe, where the valiant Russian soldiers defeated the Turks.
The crown of the Rabat fortress is the Jakeli castle, from the tower of which you can enjoy a stunning view of Akhaltsikhe and the buildings of the fortress.
Akhaltsikhe Museum.
At the foot of the castle, you can go to the Samtskhe-Javakheti Museum, which presents archaeological finds and rarities. The advantage of the museum is that there is no need to buy a separate ticket to the museum, and the disadvantages include the lack of lighting in the rooms and the ban on photos.
In time, you need at least two hours to inspect the Rabat fortress and better time choose for sightseeing on weekdays, as many tourists come from Tbilisi on weekends. Our visit fell on a weekday and besides us there were only a dozen people on the large territory of the fortress.
Akhaltsikhe is an ancient Georgian city with a thousand-year history. Being a place of intersection of trade routes and a strategic point not far from in the past, today Akhaltsikhe is a gateway point for tourists. Although in recent years their number has decreased. Below we will talk about the sights of the region and, mainly, about the magnificent Rabat fortress.
Ancient fortress
On the territory of the building and on the approaches to it, the feeling of reliability and power of the fortification does not leave. The history of entire eras has been concentrated here, so many hours of walking inside the fortress will not leave a trace of memories of life outside its walls. In the evenings, powerful searchlights begin to illuminate the fortress. Looking at Rabat at this time of day, one gets the impression that he is floating in the air.
A large-scale restoration began in 2011, when the Georgian government invested heavily to restore the citadel. The renovation projects tried to preserve the existing structures, recreating the appearance of the buildings of the past. There were some innovations, and at the end of summer 2012 the work was completed. The renewed Akhaltsikhe fortress appeared before the visitors.
The entire area of the fortress in Akhaltsikhe can be conditionally divided into upper and lower parts. At the bottom are located:
- a cafe;
- hotel and restaurant "Rabat";
- wine store;
- souvenir shops.
At the top there are:
- Museum;
- mosque;
- Christian temple;
- lock;
- gallery;
- ponds.
Bottom part
Behind the massive gates, fixed on no less powerful walls, the territory of the lower part of the fortress, intended for walks and rest, is hidden. Visiting here is free, you can enter at any time of the day and not pay anything. Pools and playgrounds, as well as the hotel of the same name, will allow visitors to the city to relax and calmly explore the sights. The cost of comfortable rooms is about 50 GEL (about 1200 rubles). Restaurant "Rabat" is located nearby, local cuisine will delight you with originality and delicious taste of dishes.
There is also something to see in the KTW wine shop - one of the best in south edge Samtskhe-Javakheti. The assortment will delight gourmets and simply lovers of Georgian grape drinks. The interior of the store will not leave you indifferent either: beautiful wooden furniture for guests, display cases and an original ceiling made of mirrored domes.
The souvenir shop offers a wide selection of icons, wine bowls and bottles. Near the very entrance to the territory of the Rabat fortress in Akhaltsikhe there is tourist centre, where you can clarify any information and buy tickets to visit the upper, museum part. Everyone can find here entertainment to their liking.
Top part
Admission to the museum section for adults costs 7 GEL (about 170 rubles), a child ticket (up to 12 years old) - 1 GEL. The territory is open to the public from 10 am to 7 pm (all days except Monday), taking photos and filming is allowed here. Steps are visible almost everywhere, so the walk involves constant ups and downs.
The main attractions are concentrated in the museum part. For a wide view of the city of Akhaltsikhe, you can climb the spiral steps to one of the observation towers... The views will amaze everyone. From here you can clearly see:
- the entire territory of the fortress;
- the city of Akhaltsikhe;
- mountainous terrain to the very horizon.
The tower walls are decorated with multi-colored stone. When visiting the upper part of the fortress, it is allowed to inspect the warehouse armory.
Another attraction is the Ahmedie Mosque, built in the 18th century and named after Ahmed Pasha. Since in 1828 the Rabat fortress in Georgia was captured by the Russians, the mosque was converted into an Orthodox church. During the restoration, the dome of the mosque was covered with gold - there are rumors that the initiators of the project were striving for some resemblance to Jerusalem (the Omar Mosque).
Important! "A number of sources claim that a large Muslim library and secondary and high schools were organized at the mosque."
It is also worth looking at the modestly decorated Christian church of the 16th century. Looking at its walls, you can feel the history going back centuries: here there are bullet holes of unknown origin, and a stone drum. The atmosphere of the mysterious east reigns in the Moorish gallery with columns, conveniently located in the center.
For relaxation, a cozy gazebo with a fountain and clean water... The Samtskhe-Javakheti Museum with its expositions will tell about the history of South Georgia. According to the rules, taking photos is prohibited here. The museum is open from 10.00 to 18.00.
The history of Jakeli castle
At first, the castle bore the name of the city of Akhaltsikhe, it was built by representatives of the Dzhakeli clan, who held the Rabat fortress until the 17th century. Protection was provided by powerful guns in the amount of forty pieces and a double row of walls. The convenient location made the castle almost impregnable - the lower part was adjacent to the cliff, the upper one was located on a high rock. A high fence was built around the perimeter.
Over the years, the building was packed so much that it was impossible to break it with field artillery. At the end of the XIV century, the city and the fortress were almost completely destroyed by the army of Tamerlane, who was returning from conquered Iran. In 1578 Akhaltsikhe was captured again, this time by the troops of the Ottoman Empire.
After the arrival of the Turks, the fortress began to be called Rabat (literally "fortified place"). Having gone over to the side of the Ottoman Empire, representatives of the Jakeli clan converted to Islam and became hereditary pashas. This continued until 1829, when Georgia came under the rule of the Russian Empire.
Transport to Akhaltsikhe
The city is located at the intersection of highways leading to Akhalkalaki, Borjomi and Batumi. Branch railroad Vale - Khashuri also crosses Akhaltsikhe. The fortress is located on the western outskirts almost near the bus station.
Until Akhaltsikhe goes public transport from almost anywhere in Georgia. From Tbilisi shuttle buses run at 10 and 11 o'clock in the morning, as well as at 17 o'clock. The fare is 12-15 GEL. From Kutaisi, traffic is carried out a little more often. Since the city is a walk-through, it makes sense to combine an excursion to the fortifications with a visit to the resorts of Borjomi and Surami, a tour of the Khertvisi citadel, and a trip to the Vardzia cave monastery.
Other sights of the city
The Rabat fortress in Akhaltsikhe is far from the only place worthy of attention, there are a lot of interesting things here without it. Due to the many confessional nature of the city, there are many religious buildings on its territory:
- the remains of the construction of an Armenian Catholic church;
- Catholic monastery;
- two synagogues of old and new construction;
- Church of Saint Marine;
- ruins of Turkish baths;
- mountains with a height of slightly more than 1 km, called the northern heights;
- monument to Tamara - the wise ruler of the "golden age" of Georgia.
Akhaltsikhe is the administrative center of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. The city is small, with about 20 thousand inhabitants, mostly Georgians and Armenians. Located on the Potskhovi River, a tributary of the Kura, which divides Akhaltsikhe into two parts.
Georgians believe that it is impossible to come to South Georgia and not see Akhaltsikhe,. By the way, the name of the city in translation means "New Fortress". Akhaltsikhe - pretty Old city, its age is more than eight centuries. Once the city belonged to the Jakeli family and was called Lomsia. In the city and its surroundings, many ancient fortresses, temples, ruins of ancient buildings, Sapara monastery.
How can you get there
Two highways pass through Akhaltsikhe - to Turkey and Batumi-Tbilisi. On Tamarashvili Square, which is located on the main city highway, there are two stations - a bus station and a railway station. From the bus station, minibuses depart for intra- and inter-district, as well as 2 international flights to Armenia. In the latter case, these are flights to Yerevan, which can be reached for 25 GEL, and Gyumri (20 GEL).
A bus service connects Akhaltsikhe with major cities Georgia (Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, Borjomi, Gori, Rustavi, etc.). The fare is from 6 to 20 lari. Tickets for intraregional minibuses cost 2-3 GEL.
You can also get to Akhaltsikhe by Tbilisi train (for about $ 5) or by car. But motorists should take into account that Georgian roads leave much to be desired: they have not been repaired for many years, and road signs may be missing on some sections. The number of filling stations is insufficient and the quality of the gasoline is very poor.
Prices in local shops and hotels
There are both hotels and guesthouses in Akhaltsikhe. Although there are few of them, they are quite comfortable and inexpensive. You will not find Soviet-built hotel buildings in the city - everything is very neat and inexpensive compared to Tbilisi. As for hostels, there are none as such, but prices in some hotels are very economical.
The most pretentious hotel in Akhaltsikhe is "Rabati". It is modern, new and quite expensive, located directly next to the Rabat fortress. Room rates from 125 GEL for a single room to 315 GEL for a suite.
Hotel "Lomsia" - the city center, beautiful, modern, 63 rooms. Cost from 100 GEL (single room) to 325 GEL for an elite apartment.
Hotel "White House" - the very center of the city, designed for 70 guests, has all the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay.
Among the inexpensive options are the Meskheti Palace hotel (city center, 60 GEL for a single room with breakfast up to 100 GEL per suite), the Prestige hotel (an old highly experienced establishment with beautiful views from above, cost from 40 to 75 GEL), guesthouses "Popular" and "Edelweiss".
As for prices, we can generally say that everything is quite affordable in Akhaltsikhe: both food and souvenirs. In particular, on the territory of the recently restored Rabat fortress, shops of such brands as Puma, Diesel, Pierre Cardin, Swatch, Mex, Beneton are concentrated. So, shopping lovers can combine shopping and acquaintance with the historical sights of the city.
Cafes and restaurants of the city
As in any Georgian city, Akhaltsikhe has such establishments with national Georgian cuisine as well as modern cafes and bars. But still, if you come to Georgia, then it is best to take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the local dishes to their fullest.
According to tourists, the best khinkali in the world are served in the U Sergo restaurant, which is located near the Rabat fortress. You can have enough food for about 10 euros to the accompaniment of Georgian music and conversations of the hospitable host.
On the territory of the fortress itself there is a restaurant "Rabat" with a very peculiar design, in which the Meskhetian and oriental styles are intertwined with the ultramodern. Here you can taste dishes of Georgian and Meskhetian cuisine, the menu is composed in three languages (Georgian, Russian and English). Two halls - Meskhetian (50 seats) and European (35 seats), compartment for 2-8 seats, VIP hall (30 seats). Parking, Wi-Fi, all types of credit cards possible, live music.
What to see in Akhaltsikhe
The main attraction of Akhaltsikhe is the Rabat fortress, restored in 2012. Having visited it, you begin to understand that it was not in vain that the ancient rulers chose this place as their residence - after all, there is such beauty here that it literally takes your breath away. In addition, the surrounding atmosphere is still reminiscent of the great events that took place here many centuries ago. is 3 650m.
And since Rabat is located directly in the center, it creates an amazing contrast between the fortifications and modern buildings. A visit to the Rabat fortress is included in the compulsory program tourist routes across Georgia. But Rabat is not only fortresses, churches, towers, mosques and cells. It is also a modern complex with business establishments, hotels, restaurants and shops.
The city has an Armenian Catholic church, a local history museum, a monument to Queen Tamara, who is the patroness of Akhaltsikhe and is revered by the townspeople as a saint.
A few kilometers from Akhaltsikhe, there is another attraction - the active Sapara (Safara) monastery. Translated, this word means “covered”. The monastery was built in the X-XI centuries. It took a long time to restore, and now it is open to the public (you can even stay overnight). On the monastery walls, amazing frescoes have been preserved, and in general this is a place where the unique spirit of antiquity hovers.
The monastery is home to 20 monks who raise funds for their livelihood Agriculture and donations. To get to the monastery, you need to hire a taxi, since minibuses do not go here.
Other attractions include the Kokhta fortress, Shoreti monastery, Zarzma monastery, Atskuri fortress, Abastumani sanatorium and the observatory of the same name. You can get to the city of Borjomi, the cave city of Varadzia, Lake Tabatskuri. All of this is within easy reach.
From the history of the city
The history of the city begins in the first half of the 12th century. From the XIV to almost the end of the XVI century. Akhaltsikhe was political, economic and cultural center Samtskhe-Javakheti. Here was the residence of the Jakeli atabegs.
In the second half of the XVI century. (1579) Akhaltsikhe fell under the rule of the Turks, and in 1628 became the main city of the Akhaltsikhe province of the Ottoman Empire.
In 1810, Russian soldiers led by General Tormasov laid siege to Akhaltsikhe. After ten days, they had to retreat. They ended up in the Borjomi Gorge, where they were lucky enough to find mineral springs, which later became famous all over the world.
As a result of the Adrianople Peace (1829), the Akhaltsikhe fortress became part of the Russian Empire.
