Alright! As you're approaching stop number 8, Narikala, it will be on your right. Look for an impressive ancient fortress perched on a steep hill. You can't miss its formidable walls and towers that stretch across the green hillside. There's also a charming domed church within the walls, with a distinctive cross on top.
Now, let's dive into the story of this cool landmark!
Narikala (Georgian: ნარიყალა) is an ancient fortress overlooking Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, and the Mtkvari (Kura) River. The fortress consists of two walled sections on a steep hill between the sulfur baths and the botanical gardens of Tbilisi. On the lower court, you’ll see the recently restored St. Nicholas Church. Built in the 1996-1997 period, it replaced the original 13th-century church that sadly went up in flames. The new church follows a "prescribed cross" type layout and boasts doors on three sides. Inside, the walls come alive with frescoes showing scenes from both the Bible and the history of Georgia.
Legend has it that the fortress was constructed by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali of the ancient Kingdom of Iberia. Archaeological findings suggest that folks were hanging around the Tbilisi area as far back as the 4th millennium BC. The earliest written records dating to around the second half of the 4th century AD tell us that a fortress was built during the reign of King Varaz-Bakur (around 364). Towards the end of the 4th century, the fortress had a short stint under Persian control before being recaptured by the kings of Kartli by the mid-5th century. It was expanded by the Umayyads in the 7th century and King David the Builder (1089-1125). Then, the Mongols decided to rename it "Narin Qala," which means "Little Fortress".
Most of what you see today comes from the 16th and 17th centuries after Rostom, the Safavid-appointed king of Kartli, fortified the surrounding areas. Parts of the fortress met their demise in an earthquake in 1827 and were subsequently demolished.
So, as you stand here appreciating the grandeur and history of Narikala, remember that this fortress has seen empires rise and fall, legends unfold, and has stood the test of time-unlike a poorly built sandcastle!
Enjoy exploring this bit of history!
