Rabati Fortress, Akhaltsikhe

Rabati Castle is located in the city of Akhaltsikhe, the administrative center of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, on the bank of the Potskhovi River. The fortress consists of structures from different periods of the Middle Ages and, for centuries, served as the political, cultural, and торговый center of the region.

The castle is divided into two main levels. The first level is an open public area featuring a historical courtyard, beautifully landscaped gardens, restaurants, and various shops. Visiting this section is free of charge, and visitors can freely enjoy the infrastructure. The second level contains the main historical section of the fortress, which requires an entrance ticket.

The architectural ensemble of the complex combines elements from different historical periods and cultural heritages. Among them is an Orthodox church dating back to the 9th–10th centuries, distinguished by its unique architecture and ornaments.

Beneath the complex lies a system of underground tunnels that once connected the fortress to the outside world and allowed escape when necessary.

Today, one of the most important parts of the complex is the Jakeli Palace, which currently houses the exhibition halls of the Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum. The museum preserves more than 25,000 exhibits dating from the Paleolithic era to the 20th century. Particularly noteworthy are cremation remains dating back to the 8th–6th millennia BC, confirming the historical existence of cremation burials in Georgia. The museum also features a separate hall dedicated to the cultural heritage of various ethnic and religious communities living in the region.