Narikala Fortress
Tbilisi, GEO
Once a Persian citadel, the ancient Narikala Fortress dominates the Tbilisi skyline. Established in the fourth century, it was expanded in the seventh, 16th, and 17th centuries, before much of it was destroyed in an explosion in 1827. The view from the fortress is one of the best in the Georgian capital.
Narikala Fortress is divided into two sections between the Orbeliani sulfur baths and the Tbilisi Botanical Garden. On the lower level is the contemporary St. Nicholas Church, with doors on three sides, and an interior decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible and Georgian history. Most Tbilisi sightseeing tours stop by the Narikala Fortress.
Entry to the Narikala Fortress is free.
Some of the steps leading to the tops of the walls are steep and narrow, and might not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
The easiest and most picturesque way to get to the Narikala Fortress is by aerial tramway from Rike Park—cabins have glass windows and floors offering 360-degree views. Alternatively, walk up to the fortress from Meidan, or via the Betlemi Street stairs from Lado Asatiani in Sololaki.
You can visit Narikala Fortress at any time, but many travelers say the landmark is most attractive when it’s lit up after dark.
Set on Sololaki Hill, about a 10-minute walk from Narikala Fortress, is Kartlis Deda (aka the Mother of Georgia). A feature of the Tbilisi cityscape, the 66-foot (20-meter) aluminium monument depicts the figure of a woman in Georgian national dress, symbolizing the national character. In her left hand she holds a bowl of wine to greet those who come as friends; in her right is a sword for those who come as enemies.
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