Georgian fortress structures. Fortress in Khertvisi and Tsunda.

The Hertvis fortress has been mentioned in sources since the XI century . In 1578-1892 . The Hertvis fortress served as the location of the Ottoman garrison and the administrative center. Traces of numerous reconstructions (which were carried out by Georgians, Ottomans, Russians) are visible on the fortress. This fortress is notable for the large size of the occupied area, as well as many auxiliary rooms. There is a hard-to-reach citadel, a court church. The fortress was supplied with water through a tunnel drawn from the northwest side.

Tsunda was an ancient political and ecclesiastical center. Currently, this place is called the village of Nakalakevi (old town). The village is located on the right bank of the Kura River. According to legend, the city was founded by the Ethnark Javakhos. The founder of the Kartli kingdom, King Parnavaz (IV-III centuries BC), turned Tsunda into the center of Saeristavo.

The most important trade and military routes passed through Tsunda. The Zala-type church of Tsunda was built in the XII-XIII centuries on a small rock. It is built of well-hewn straight squares. The temple is richly decorated with carved ornaments. On the western door there is an inscription in "asomtavruli" (ancient Georgian alphabet). To the south, a gate is attached, the columns of which are decorated with carvings. The architectural solution of the temple is distinguished by originality. The walled courtyard can only be accessed through the temple.