Kistani is a historical village nestled in the remote region of Upper Khevsureti, currently abandoned and uninhabited. What remains of this once-thriving settlement are the ruins of a tower complex, while two towers on a neighboring hill stand in slightly better condition. These structures are clearly visible from the road to Shatili, particularly around the village of Lebaiskari. Although the village itself is no longer present, there are entrance signs marking “Kistani” along the highway.
There was a time when Kistani was alive with the presence of a Khevsur family. At some unknown point in history, the villagers departed (possibly due to resettlement in 1953), and the remnants of Kistani gradually succumbed to decay. Today, a farm selling milk and cheese sits between the village ruins and the Shatili road. The cows from this farm roam the meadows surrounding the remnants of the village.
To the south of the former settlement, two towers rise on a hillside. They are similar in design: one is a classic Khevsur tower, while the other is shorter and broader. The wider tower appears to have been used for livestock, with an entrance at ground level.
Kistani is also home to its own shrine, known as Djvari, located in a gorge to the south of the towers. This sacred site remains popular among the Khevsurs, and curiously, it is here that residents of Shatili choose to baptize their children. During the Shatili festivals at the end of July, it is customary for locals to make a pilgrimage to the Kistani Djvari.
Tourists rarely venture into Kistani. While many pass by on their way to Shatili and often photograph the towers, few make the trek to explore them up close.
Accessing Kistani can be done through the farm’s territory, which is nearby. However, there is little to see among the village ruins. Nevertheless, a trail leads from the village up the hill to the towers. The towers themselves are charming, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Coordinates of the farm: 42°33’51″N 45°5’14″E