Khikhani Fortress, also known as Khikhati or Abuseridze Ancestral Fortress, is a spectacular medieval fortress in the picturesque Adjara municipality of Khulo. Located in the village of Upper Thilvana, at the source of the Skhalta River, the fortress rises on a steep rocky peak, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In the 13th century, under the leadership of the Eristav-Eristavs Abuser and Vardan, their brother Tbel created the stone church of St. George within the walls of the fortress. Legends connect Khikhani with Queen Tamara, giving her even greater historical weight. Sometimes it is even called the Tamar Fortress.
Today, the remains of four towers have been preserved in Hikhata, as well as the Marani Hikhani, a wine cellar that was once located in a rectangular building measuring 12 by 4.5 meters. Around the fortress there is a brick fence, 5-6 meters high, its laying emphasizes the inaccessibility of the edges of the rocks. However, at times the walls were damaged.
Explorers discovered a variety of building remains, including a large pit that looked like a secret warehouse, and the remains of bakeries and maranis. This place is filled with history and mystery, providing a unique insight into medieval architecture and lifestyle.
An important point is the legend of the Akhaltsikhe Pasha, Selim-Beg Khimshiashvili, whose courage and heroism glorified Khikhani. The story of his resistance to the Ottoman army, until his tragic death, leaves an incredible impression in the hearts of visitors.
To immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Khikhani, follow the asphalt road from Batumi to the village of Bakibako. Then take a dirt road that climbs through picturesque landscapes. The last 900 meters to the fortress will have to be walked, rising to an altitude of 2220 meters above sea level. This climb requires physical fitness, but the rewards of a unique experience and stunning scenery are more than worth the effort.
A visit to Khikhani is not only a chance to plunge into the history and culture of Georgia, but also to penetrate the mysterious world of a medieval fortress, where each stone keeps its own unique story.
