The Ananuri fortified ensemble is conviniently located on the very touristic Georgian Military Highway some 70km north of Tbilisi. The view on the fort from the highway is phenomenal, with the (artifical) Zhinvali lake as a backdrop. Ananuri is a very popular toursit attraction, and the parking lot is full of souvernir stands. Entrance is free, and once inside the walls, there is no commercial activity anymore, and we can concertrate on visiting those historic buildings.

This fort was the headquarters of local feudal dynasty, controlling the valley, and the scene of several battles. Within the walls of this fort are two 17th century churches, the smaller Saviour’s church and the more imposing Church of the Virgin. Both display nice relief carvings on their exterior walls. On the west end of the walls is a 5 stories square tower (Sheupovari), built in the 12 the century, very worth climbing for a good view of the complex. In between the two churches is another 12 century watchtower.

Ananuri is a nice and atmospheric place to visit, and a convenient stop on the Georgian military highway.