Megalithic fortress of Avranlo in Kvemo Kartli, Georgia.

The Avranlo megalithic fortress, located in the picturesque village of Avranlo in the Kvemo Kartli region, is a unique architectural and historical monument dating back to the 1st millennium. This fortress not only served as a reliable refuge in ancient times, but also occupied a strategically important position, controlling the only road connecting Trialeti with the Borjomi gorge.

Situated on three terraces going down to the river, the fortress amazes with its scale and engineering. The majestic walls, the thickness of which in some places reaches 3-4 meters, create the impression of inaccessibility. Inside the fortress there are ruins of ancient residential buildings, and the remains of ancient buildings can be found on each of the terraces.

Of particular interest is the church built in the Middle Ages on the first terrace. But the most mysterious and unique element is the Abibo cave complex, carved into the steep cliffs along the river. These ancient caves were apparently used by monks for retreat and prayer.

Archaeological finds around the Avranlo complex, including fragments of ceramics from the Mtkvari-Araks culture and the remains of settlements from the Late Bronze and Early Iron periods, indicate intensive development of this territory over the centuries.

This fortress is definitely worth a visit for those interested in history and archaeology, as well as for those who want to enjoy the magnificent landscapes of Georgia and feel the spirit of antiquity while exploring the secrets of the past, etched in stone.