History and archaeology / Castle
Ardanuç (Gevhernik) Castle
Ardanuç, Artvin
A castle-town built on top of a huge rock mass in Adakale, the political center of the Klarjeti region in the Middle Ages; known in Turkish sources as Gevhernik Castle.
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Its story
According to Georgian chronicles, the castle was built in the 5th century under King Vakhtang Gorgasali. Destroyed in the Arab raids, it was strengthened in the 9th century by the Bagratid Ashot I, who made it the political and economic center of Klarjeti. The Ottomans captured the castle in 1551. The castle-town consists of the main castle, on the flat top of a rock rising beside the Ardanuç Stream, and the Adakale settlement at its foot; inside is a ruined church known as Petre-Pavle. The name 'Gevhernik' is thought to mean 'beautiful jewel' in Persian. Excavations have been under way since 2021 at the site, which is a first-degree archaeological site. From the top of the rock, the Ardanuç valley and the mouth of the canyon make an impressive sight.
Key facts
- Period
- 5th century; strengthened in the 9th century
- Admission
- Free
- Getting there
- Adakale, near the Ardanuç district center
- Visit duration
- 1 hour
Trip purpose
- Free
- Photography
- Day trip
Location
41.12674, 42.05494
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Source: Web derlemesi (doğrulanmalı): https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ardanuç_Kalesi | https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16365061 | https://www.openstreetmap.org/node/3177030980