Walled fortress of Ananuri, Georgia

Around 70 kilometres from Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a fortress that lies above a vast reservoir. It is part of the Mtskheta-Mtianeti Region. The old walled fortress and church of Ananuri is a 13^th century castle complex on the Aragvi River. The fortress was in use until the beginning of the 19^th century.

There are two castles joined by a wall. The castle further up the slope has a large well-preserved square tower whereas the castle on the lower slope has a round tower, but it is mostly in ruins. There are also two churches. The older church – the Church of the Virgin – was built (of brick) in the first half of the 17^th century, but the larger church – the Church of the Assumption – was built in 1689 and has a central dome. The south facade has a carved grapevine cross. In addition to the reservoir, which provides water to Tbilisi, the complex has its own spring.

The Ministry of Culture, Monuments Protection and Sport of Georgia submitted the fortress complex to UNESCO for consideration as a heritage site in October 2007. It is now on the tentative list as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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