Gonio fortress – is the oldest stone building in Georgia that exists for no less than a thousand years. Archaeological layers found while examining the fortress were created in 15-17 centuries B.C.
The Name Origin
In fact. The fortress has 2 names – Gonio Apsaros fortress. Why is it called in that way? According to the legend, on the territory of the fortress was buried tsarevitch Apsirt who was killed by Yason who was leaving Colchis. Is that true? No one knows. No confirmation were found. But the name of tsarevitch Apsirt was immortalized in this very way.
One more legend
You can find a grave on the territory of the fortress. One more legend tells that the Apostle Matthew lies there, who came to Georgia to preach Christianity. Is there any confirmation. Again – nothing. The rulers of Georgia have forbidden to make any excavations in a radius of some kilometers.
How to get there?
In order to get to Gonio Fortress from Batumi you can choose one of 4 ways:
- On the bus #16
- Ona any public transport, where it is written Gonio
- On the taxi that will cost you 10-20 GEL (just get to Gonio Fortress!)
- At your own car – the most comfortable way and it will cost you less than a taxi (think about renting a car in Georgia). There is a parking lot in front of the fortress where you can leave your car and not thinking constantly what to do if something happens to it.
Examine the fortress on your own and you will get a lot of positive emotions from visiting Gonio Apsaros fortress.