Martkopi Towers

The Martkopi Towers are standing in the center of the village of the same name, in the Gardabani municipality in the Kvemo Kartli region in Georgia.

I called them the Martkopi Towers but actually both have their own name; the Shinjikashvili Tower and Tushmalishvili Tower. Both towers date back to the 18th century, have a circular ground plan and were built by separate families as a refuge in times of trouble. I have no historical information about them. If you know more; please mail me.

Shinjikashvili Tower stands in a small plot in between houses. The plot serves as a sort of little public park. The tower itself can not be entered.

Tushmalishvili Tower stands in the backyard of a private residence. It was built by one of the forefathers of the present occupant. This forefather also built the church south of the tower. Sadly enough part of Tushmalishvili Tower has collapsed in 2000, taking down the ornate original entrance.

At present Shinjikashvili Tower can freely be visited. As Tushmalishvili Tower stands in a private backyard, it can not be visited. But if the very hospitable owner is home he might give you a small tour like he did give me. Thanks again Zaal.

Gallery

The Shinjikashvili Tower

The Tushmalishvili Tower