Gori Castle

Gori, Georgia

Gori Castle is a medieval citadel in Georgia, standing above the city of Gori on a rocky hill. The castle first appears in the 13th century records but archaeological evidence shows that the area had already been fortified in the last centuries BC. The fortress controlled major strategic and economic routes and accommodated a large garrison. In the 16th century the Ottomans captured it to overawe Tbilisi. In 1598 the Georgians besieged it to no avail; in 1599 they feigned a relaxation of the siege for Lent before launching a surprise attack at night to regain the citadel. The fortress continued to change hands between the Georgians and the Persians in the 17th century.

The citadel acquired the present-day form under the Georgian kings Rostom of Kartli in the 1630s and Erekle II in 1774. After the Russian annexation of Georgia in 1801, the fortress was garrisoned by a Russian grenadier battalion, but its importance gradually declined and the fortifications went defunct.

Gori Fortress was significantly damaged by the earthquake in 1920. The best preserved structure is Tskhra-kara ('the Nine-gated'), which looks to the west, and is adjoined by the supplementary walls on the south and east.

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Address

Kote Apkhazi Street 3, Gori, Georgia
See all sites in Gori

Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Georgia

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

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Birtvisi Castle Ruins (55,1 km)
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User Reviews

Aytac Əhmədova. (2 months ago)
Gori Fortress was a beautiful place than I expected. Other than the remote, in the mornings, and at night, they look different. The common point is that it is always astonishing.
Helmut Schaus (2 months ago)
Basic ancient castle. Poorly maintained. Nice views of the city. But nothing special really. Is just a small trek from the city centre.
João Carlos Vergueiro (3 months ago)
Of course it's just the ruins, and they are refurbishing some of it, so there's no access to some parts. Butnthe view from up there is great, specially at sunset. The walls from outside, also stand still, and look great. It's nice quite tour, and it's free.
Malcolm MX Taylor (5 months ago)
I love this place, right in the centre of the city but even though it is pretty high, if you are driving through the town you could easily miss it. Anyway when you do see it you can follow the path to the top and have some amazing views of the town and surrounding areas. Well worth a visit!!
Louie van der Watt (5 months ago)
It is always a mind blowing experience to visit a Castle and realise that a few years ago, people lived, laughed, slept and fought wars we you are standing. Great view of Gori
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