Ananuri Fortress is a historic landmark located in the Ananuri village in Georgia. It is a castle complex that consists of two churches, a watchtower, and defensive walls. The fortress dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries when it served as a residence for the Dukes of Aragvi, a Georgian dynasty.
The fortress is situated on the Aragvi River, which makes it an ideal stop for tourists traveling from Tbilisi to the Georgian ski resorts in the Caucasus Mountains. The picturesque location of the fortress, surrounded by greenery and mountains, offers breathtaking views of the Georgian landscape.
The two churches in the fortress are dedicated to the Virgin Mary and are examples of Georgian medieval architecture. The larger church, called the Church of the Assumption, was built in 1689 and features intricate carvings and frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible. The smaller church, known as the Church of St. George, was built in the 16th century and has a more simplistic design.
The watchtower and defensive walls of the fortress were added later and served as protection against invaders. The walls of the fortress have been damaged over time, but the watchtower still stands tall and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Ananuri Fortress is a popular tourist destination in Georgia, attracting visitors who are interested in history and architecture. The fortress is easily accessible by road and there are plenty of parking spaces available for those who travel by car.
Visitors can also find local vendors selling souvenirs and traditional Georgian food near the fortress. The fortress is open to visitors year-round and entrance is free.
