The citadel above Old Tbilisi
Narikala follows the rocky ridge above Old Tbilisi, overlooking the city and its river valley. Its walls make the relationship between landscape and urban history especially clear.
Its story through time
The fortress appears in Tbilisi’s historical records from the late fourth century. Repeated changes over subsequent centuries shaped this defensive complex, whose importance is closely tied to the city’s long history.
Architecture and character
Walls, towers and defensive projections follow the ridge rather than a regular geometric plan. Their changing levels respond to the steep ground, making the rocky setting part of the fortress’s architectural character.
Sources and further reading
A closer look at the city
More stories from Tbilisi
Continue discovering the city, one landmark at a time.
