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Castle of Rukhi: A Sentinel of Mingrelia

Explore the historic Castle of Rukhi in Samegrelo, Georgia: a 17th-century fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's past.

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The Castle of Rukhi, built in 1647 by Levan II Dadiani, stands as a testament to Georgia's rich history in the Samegrelo region. This fortress was a vital defense against the Ottoman Empire and fostered regional trade. Today, it welcomes visitors to explore its ruins and enjoy panoramic views.

A brief summary to Castle of Rukhi

  • HV73+WMQ, Rukhi, GE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the uneven terrain within the castle grounds.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Check the local weather forecast before your visit to dress appropriately for outdoor exploration.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Zugdidi, take a marshrutka (minibus) towards Rukhi. These depart regularly from the Zugdidi central bus station. The journey to Rukhi village takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Once in Rukhi, the castle is a short, clearly signposted walk from the main road. The marshrutka fare is around 1 GEL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Zugdidi. A taxi ride from Zugdidi city center to the Castle of Rukhi takes about 10 minutes. Expect to pay around 5.5 GEL for the trip. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app.

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Discover more about Castle of Rukhi

Rising majestically in the Samegrelo region, the Castle of Rukhi is an integral part of Georgia's historical heritage. Constructed in 1647 by Levan II Dadiani, the Prince of Mingrelia, it served as a crucial fortification for the principality, effectively protecting the territory from Ottoman invasions. The castle's strategic location on the left bank of the Enguri River provided easy access and protection for the local population during times of war. The castle's history is filled with significant events, including the siege of 1672 when Prince Levan III Dadiani successfully defended it against the Ottomans. Although the fortress faced difficult times, such as its destruction by Ottoman troops in 1725, it was persistently restored. In 1769, during the Russian-Turkish War, Georgian kings and General Totleben regained control, ousting the Ottomans. The architecture of the Castle of Rukhi reflects its defensive nature, with a maximum internal length of 100 meters and a width of 80 meters. It comprises a lower part in the south and a citadel in the north. The towers, especially the main tower of the citadel, offer stunning views of the Enguri River and its basin. Today, despite losing its military significance in the early 19th century, the Castle of Rukhi is a popular tourist destination where visitors can explore the grounds, admire the views, and even enjoy picnics and concerts. Visitors can explore the four surviving floors of the main tower, complete with embrasures and fireplaces, and immerse themselves in the spirit of ancient times. The fortress not only served a military purpose but also stimulated trade in the region and provided a bulwark against Ottoman influence.

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