Second Palace of the Kings of Egrisi

The monumental archaeological reserve of Nokalakevi, historically known to the Greco-Roman world as Archaeopolis, contains the substantial remains of the Second Palace of the Kings of Egrisi. Situated within the lower citadel area, this prominent stone foundation marks the administrative and royal heart of the Kingdom of Lazica during its political peak between the 4th and 6th centuries. The structural ruins provide physical evidence of an era when local Iberian and Colchian rulers navigated intense geopolitical conflicts between the Byzantine and Sassanid Persian empires, making this specific palace a critical seat of regional power.

Historical Evolution of the Royal Court

The construction of the Second Palace occurred during a phase of urban expansion in the lower citadel, following the establishment of an earlier royal residence nearby. As the administrative requirements of the Lazic monarchy grew, royal builders developed this secondary complex to house the royal court and visiting dignitaries. The masonry showcases a deliberate defensive and elite architectural tradition, featuring a blend of local limestone blocks interlaid with classic Roman-Byzantine brick bands—a building methodology known as opus mixtum.

Unlike the massive defensive ramparts protecting the northern ridges of the city, the palace layout reflects civic functionality. Archaeological excavations indicate that the building served as a combined residence, ceremonial hall, and administrative hub where local treaties were negotiated during the Lazic Wars.

Architectural Features and Infrastructure

• The Hypocaust Heating System: The architectural design of the palace integrated an advanced hypocaust system. This engineering method distributed heated air from an outdoor furnace through hollow spaces beneath the floors and inside the walls, maintaining comfortable temperatures within the royal quarters during the damp, cold winters of the Colchis lowland.
• The Royal Bathhouse Complex: Positioned adjacent to the residential chambers, the structural remains of the public and royal baths demonstrate Roman style engineering, including distinct sections for changing rooms, warm baths, and cold plunges.
• The Secret Citadel Tunnel: A steep, subterranean passage carved directly through the solid limestone cliff connects the palace grounds to the edge of the Tekhuri River. This protected stone staircase served as a secure corridor during prolonged military sieges, allowing royal guards and water carriers to resupply the citadel safely without exposure to enemy forces stationed across the river valley.