The history of the fortress dates back to the 9th century. The original castle that stood here bore a different name and was destroyed during the wars of the 11th century. In the early 12th century, the prominent feudal lord of southern Georgia, Beshken II Jaqeli, began rebuilding the city under the orders of King David the Builder. At the time, he was engaged in constructing defensive fortification systems and restoring cities to resist the Seljuk Turks. It was during this period that the area became known as “Akhaltsikhe,” meaning “New Castle.” In the 12th–13th centuries, the castle became the residence of the Jaqeli family. It was one of the most important defensive structures in the region, with its walls bearing witness to many fierce battles.

Did you know that…

1. Akhaltsikhe was an important trade, cultural, and administrative center of the Samtskhe region. In 1578, it was conquered by the Ottomans. During the 17th–18th centuries, it became a major hub for the slave trade conducted by Lezgin raiders, where Christian captives were bought and sold.

2. The castle was surrounded by three concentric defensive walls and was connected to its surroundings by an underground tunnel.

3. In 2011–2012, the walls, citadel, Orthodox church, mosque, madrasa, minaret, and the Jakeli Palace on the fortress grounds were renovated. The palace now houses the exhibition hall of the Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum.