Narikala Fortress

Narikala Fortress is the ancient soul and silent guardian of Tbilisi. Perched on the steep Sololaki Ridge, it has looked down for centuries upon the Old Town, the curves of the Kura River, and the sulfur baths at its foot. The history of the citadel begins in the 4th century, when Persians erected the first fortifications on this strategic hill under the name Shuris-tsikhe ("Invidious Fortress"). Over subsequent centuries, it was repeatedly expanded and rebuilt by Arab emirates and Georgian kings, acquiring its present name, presumably of Mongolian origin, during the invasion period.

The condition in which the fortress reached our days was largely determined by an event in 1827. Lightning struck towers where Russian forces had stored gunpowder reserves. A tremendous explosion flattened most interior structures and the ancient Church of Saint Nicholas. In this state, as magnificent and picturesque ruins, Narikala endured for over a century and a half. In Georgia's modern era, during the 1990s, the Church of Saint Nicholas was completely rebuilt on its historic foundations, emerging as an emblem of national and spiritual revival.

For modern tourists and city residents, Narikala is primarily the best viewpoint in Tbilisi. From its walls open breathtaking panoramic views across the entire historic center: tiled roofs of the Old Town, the Bridge of Peace, Rike Park, and the Presidential Palace. Visitors can freely wander around the complex territory, climb the towers and walls to capture spectacular photos, and visit the restored church.

You can reach the fortress in two main ways. The most popular and picturesque is by cable car connecting Rike Park and Narikala. The ride is paid for with a standard city transport card. An alternative option for the more hardy is walking up along the narrow streets of the Old Town from the sulfur baths district. Admission to the fortress grounds is entirely free and accessible around the clock, allowing you to admire the city both by day and under nighttime lights. For walking along ancient and uneven walls, sturdy, comfortable footwear is strongly recommended.