Batonistsikhe: Fortress of the Kakhetian Kings

Batonistsikhe, also known as Telavi Castle, stands as a significant monument of Georgian architecture from the late feudal period. Located in the heart of Telavi, this fortress was the residence of the kings of Kakheti during the 17th and 18th centuries. Unlike Tbilisi, where royal palaces were destroyed, Batonistsikhe remains the sole royal palace in Georgia. Constructed in two phases, the fortress showcases the architectural styles of its time. King Archil of Imereti initiated the construction between 1667 and 1675, which included the kings' palace, the eastern gate, and the royal bath. In the 18th century, King Erekle II expanded the complex, adding a court church, the western gate, and a fortified wall, transforming it into a citadel. A secret tunnel, northwest of the Batoni Church, provided a hidden escape route. During peacetime, Batonistsikhe functioned as a reception area for foreign diplomats and the political center of the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti. Today, visitors can explore the meticulously preserved castle and its museum, which houses royal family artifacts, a coin collection, and historical relics. The complex also features two small churches and a state-of-the-art museum. Just across from the palace is a 900-year-old Giant Plane Tree, a silent witness to Georgia's long history. Batonistsikhe underwent extensive renovations in 2018, including the construction of a new museum to showcase the collections. The fortress has also hosted important events, such as the inauguration of Georgia's fifth President.