Rabati Castle
რაბათის ციხე
A medieval castle complex in Akhaltsikhe where a mosque, a church, and a synagogue coexist after a 2012 restoration, and where the nighttime lighting is spectacular.
Rabati Castle sits in Akhaltsikhe, about 40 km southwest of Borjomi. Founded in the 9th century, it served as the seat of the Jaqeli principality and of Ottoman pashas, and its grounds hold a mosque, palaces, a church, and a synagogue side by side. A comprehensive restoration was completed in 2012, leaving the site spruced up, though the “over-restoration” has drawn controversy. The lower town can be entered free of charge, while the upper castle walls, the museum, and the fortress require tickets. At night the whole complex is lit up and very photogenic, making it a regular stop on the way to Vardzia.
Opening hours
09:00–20:00 (Upper Town)
Nearby sights
- Sapara Monastery
- Khertvisi Fortress
- Green Monastery (Chitakhevi)
- Vardzia
- Vanis Kvabebi
- Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
- Likani Palace (Romanov Palace)
- Borjomi–Bakuriani Railway (Kukushka)