Khikhani Fortress

Khikhani Fortress is located in Khulo Municipality, Adjara region, in about 100 km from Batumi, at an elevation of 2200 meters above sea level, near the border of Georgia and Turkey. Khikhani used to be one of the most important fortifications in Adjara region, since it had a unique strategic location. It used to be a shelter for the local lords. Khikhani Fortress has only one pedestrian path, which made it difficult to conquer the fortress.

Majority of the historians believe that the fortress was constructed in the 10-13th c.c. Fortress used to be the major residence of the noble Abuseridze family in the late middle ages. The ruler of Adjara, Selim Khimshiashvili, fighting against Ottoman Empire was hiding at some point in Khikhani. The historic complex consists of two layers: the ancient one - 10-11th c.c. and the more modern one - 17-18th c.c.. Nowadays, only ruins are preserved from this formerly inaccessible building: four rectangular towers, a brick wall, a bakery, wine cellar, a water well, and St. George's Church. The fortress had the curtain wall, some parts of which are nowadays destroyed. The height of the wall is 5-6 meters. Visitors can find the half-ruined St. George’s church in the fortress. Khikhani Fortress maintained its military function until the beginning of the 20th century.

Visitors of the fortress can also enjoy beautiful views over Shavsheti mountain range, several mountain villages of Adjara and Goderdzi Pass.

Adjara Cultural Heritage Protection Agency has been implementing rehabilitation of the fortress since 2012.

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