Ananuri Fortified Castle Ensemble

The Architecture of Ananuri Fortress

Ananuri Fortress is composed of several buildings that used to serve a variety of purposes, including military, religious, and secular. Miraculously, many of these buildings have survived through the centuries of battle and strife.

The buildings of the complex, including the upper and lower fortresses, the walls, the towers, three churches, a bell tower, an octagonal cell, and a water reservoir, were built between the 14th and 18th centuries. The names of these structures are particularly interesting. The tower is called Sheupovari, meaning “obstinate”, the church is called Ghvtaeba, meaning “deity”, and the other church is called Mkurnali, meaning “healer”. 

The strategic importance of Ananuri Fortress is also shown by the fact that King Erekle II (1720-1798) named Ananuri Fortress among the nation’s seven strongest fortresses. After being defeated in the battle of Krtsanisi, he himself took refuge in this fortress.

The View from Ananuri Fortress

This area becomes exceptionally beautiful in autumn. The endless shades of gold, red, and orange in the surrounding forest will surprise you. There is also a gorgeous view over Zhinvali Dam from Ananuri Fortress, regardless of the time of year you visit.