Rabati fortress in Samtskhe-Javakheti, Georgia.

Georgia inspires with its rich heritage, and one of the greatest pearls of this country is the Rabati Fortress, majestically rising in the heart of the administrative center of Samtskhe-Javakheti, in the unique historical district of the city of Akhaltsikhe - “Rabati”. Covered by walls, it lies magnificently on the banks of the picturesque Potskhovi River.

Caringly restored, this fortress is a fascinating ensemble of buildings dating from different eras of the Middle Ages. Memories of the difficult battles fought in its defense are captured here, and the walls of the fortress tell us about the important role of this defensive structure in the region. Once upon a time it was not only a fortress, but also the residence of the rulers of Akhaltsikhe, which had three mighty layers of walls, and an underground tunnel connected it with the surrounding area.

Starting its history in the 9th century, the Rabati fortress experienced reconstruction and expansion in the 12th-13th centuries, becoming the residence of the famous Jakeli family. This important place is firmly connected with the toponym "Akhaltsikhe", which originated from that time.

Thanks to careful restoration in 2011-2012, the Fortress came to life again: the walls, the citadel, the Orthodox Church of the 9th-10th centuries, the Hadji Ahmed Pasha Jakeli Mosque, the madrasah and the minaret were repaired. Jakeli Palace, turned into an exhibition hall of the Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum, now recreates the splendor of the past.

We invite you to penetrate the majestic past of Georgia, feel the breath of time within the walls of the Rabati Fortress and learn the amazing pages of the history of this land. This amazing place combines cultural heritage and architectural splendor, designed to inspire and captivate everyone who crosses its threshold.