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Nokalakevi (Georgian: ნოქალაქევი) is an archaeological site consisting of the remains of 4-6th century A.D fortress in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region of Georgia. Occupying some 20 ha, the site was known to early Byzantine historians as Archaeopolis, and to Georgian chroniclers as Tsikhegoji (“Fortress of Kuji”).

Nokalakevi Fortress. Photo by travelgeorgia.ru, via Wikimedia Commons

Occupying a strategic position in a loop of the Tekhuri River, Nokalakevi was one of the key fortresses guarding Lazika (modern Samegrelo).

Nokalakevi Fortress by the Tekhuri River. Photo by travelgeorgia.ru, via Wikimedia Commons

Aerial View of Nokalakevi. Photo by travelgeorgia.ru via wikimedia

Though the fortifications and structures visible today mainly date from the 4-6th century A.D., there is evidence of several earlier phases of occupation from before the 8th century BC (late Bronze/early Iron Age). Ongoing excavations are carried out by the ‘Anglo-Georgian Expedition to Nokalakevi’ and provide archaeological training for both international and Georgian archaeology students.

Remains of Fortifications at Nokalakevi Fortress site. Photo by travelgeorgia.ru, via Wikimedia Commons

Between 1980 and 1990, archaeologists excavated 6 churches, (one from 4th century A.D., 1 from the 5th century and 4 from the 6th century), 2 bath houses from the 4-6th century and 2 royal palaces from the 4-6th century AD.

A Church at Nokalakevi Fortress site. Photo by travelgeorgia.ru, via Wikimedia Commons

The Forty Martyrs Church is situated within the defensive walls of Nokalakevi and was originally built as an aisled basilica in the sixth century but was later reconstructed several times and turned into a dome church.

Forty Martyrs Church inside Nokalakevi citadel. Photo by travelgeorgia.ru, via Wikimedia Commons.

How to get there? The fortress is located 15 km from the town of Senaki (Georgian: სენაკი) on the Martvili road in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region.

Georgia About recommends a visit to this amazing site!

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