About
Narikala Fortress sits on a hill above Tbilisi, Georgia, and it is the city's most recognisable landmark. Its walls and towers look down over the old town and the river below, so most visitors come as much for the view as for the stones themselves.
The fortress dates from the 4th century, which gives it a long span of history to read as you walk its grounds. It is a good place to start a visit to Tbilisi, because from the top you can see how the city is laid out: the streets of the old quarter, the modern districts stretching outward, and the hills beyond.
What a visit offers
- Panoramic views of the whole city, especially welcome in the late afternoon.
- Historical context for the wider region, since the site helps explain Georgia's past.
- An easy orientation for the rest of your stay, as you can match what you see from above with places you visit below.
Getting there and around
The fortress is on Data Gulua's rise, in Tbilisi, with the postal code 0114. It is within walking distance of the old town, and the climb up is part of the experience. Allow time to wander slowly, take photographs, and simply look out over the city.
Pair your visit with a stroll through the old quarter below, which is full of character and close to the fortress. A visit here makes a natural first step into Tbilisi, and a rewarding one for anyone interested in how the city has grown around its ancient heights.