Likhauri Fortress

Likhauri Fortress (ლიხაურის ციხე) is a modest yet historically significant structure perched on a hill above the village of Likhauri, just south of Ozurgeti. It stands as one of the few surviving fortifications in Guria, easily accessible for visitors from Ozurgeti. While it offers a quick exploration opportunity, its visual appeal is somewhat diminished due to dense overgrowth of vines that obscure its features. Consequently, capturing a decent photograph of the fortress from a distance is nearly impossible, even in autumn. The only known image of the fortress dates back to a time before the surrounding hills were covered in trees.

The history of Likhauri Fortress is marked by scattered mentions, yet a coherent narrative remains elusive. Long ago, the village of Likhauri, along with the now-defunct area of Chanieti, was believed to have been owned by the Gurieli princes. It is possible that the fortress was constructed during those early times. Historian Vasily Potto, while cataloging Gurian fortresses in the 19th century, remarked that “these bandit dens now stand empty.” Notably, in 1774, Likhauri Fortress, alongside Askana, fell into the hands of Turkish forces, only to be reclaimed shortly after by Prince Mamia IV Gurieli with the assistance of King Solomon I of Imereti. In 1833, the fortress was visited and described by traveler Dubois de Montpere, and this account represents much of what is known about it today.

Likhauri Fortress shares similarities with other long-abandoned fortifications in western Georgia, such as Rukhi Fortress and Chakvinji Fortress. Currently, three square towers and a connecting wall remain intact, with the towers set inward rather than projecting outward from the perimeter, a design characteristic shared with Rukhi and Chakvinji. Access to the fortress is through an entrance resembling a door, situated in one of the towers and slightly elevated above the surrounding ground level, requiring some climbing over stones.

The towers themselves have weathered the years reasonably well, although all internal flooring has long since rotted away. Adventurous visitors can explore the towers, but caution is advised, and it is best to use climbing gear for safety.

Inside the fortress, little remains aside from an overgrown courtyard filled with vegetation. A path has been worn around the perimeter, allowing for a circumferential stroll.

The fortress is located on the western edge of the village of Likhauri, easily accessible by minibus from Ozurgeti. From the central square, the fortress becomes visible during autumn when the trees have shed their leaves. It can also be spotted from the hill near the Likhauri Church. To reach it, walk approximately one kilometer west from the village square, take a left at the first fork (the right street may also lead there), and continue until you encounter what resembles a gate leading to the right onto a trail. This path will guide you directly up to the fortress.

If you are traveling from Kobuleti, you can bypass Ozurgeti by disembarking in Chanieti and walking approximately one to one and a half kilometers through the village to reach the fortress. In the autumn months, the fortress becomes visually identifiable amidst the landscape.