Kvetera Castle

Kvetera Castle lies on a mountain west of the village of Naduknari, in the Akhmeta municipality in the Kakheti region in Georgia.

Kvetera Castle was actually the fortress of a fortified city. It is situated on the highest point of the mountain. The city was situated next to it on its west and south side. Due to its position it was considered a formidable stronghold, near the confluence of the Ito and Khevgrdzeli rivers on the old northern route from Kakheti to Kartli.

Although it was first mentioned in the 11th century, it is supposed to already have existed in the 8th century. During the rule of Kvirike III of Kakheti (1010-1037), it was in the hands of the Dukes of Kvetera.

Archaeological excavations have uncovered numerous traces of urban life from the 13th century. After the 13th century the city was not mentioned in historical sources anymore. Its fate is unknown.

In 2007 Kvetera was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The mountain on which it is situated is very wooded, so it is hard to take pictures of its exterior. When walking to the castle one first encounters the remains of a city gate. A short distance behind it stands a small tower which intended use is unknown. Of the castle itself remains the curtain walls with ruined towers. Within its walls are the ruin of a palace and a, beautifully restored, 10th century tetraconch (four-apse) church.

At present Kvetera Castle can freely be visited. A nice site but due to the woods it is hard to see its exterior. Also you will need a 4WD car to get there.

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