Kharati Tower

The Kharati Tower, also known as the Tsiskarauli Tower, is a prominent defensive structure within the fortified village of Shatili in the Arghuni Gorge. Built by the Tsiskarauli family, this tower served as a vital stronghold for local residents in the high mountains of Khevsureti. Its construction reflects the defensive requirements of a society that lived under the constant threat of incursions, utilizing locally sourced slate and mortar to create a structure capable of enduring centuries of extreme weather and conflict.

Structural Engineering and Defensive Design

The tower rises in the classic tapering form characteristic of medieval high-mountain architecture. The building is divided into functional levels that served distinct purposes:

• Ground Floor: This level was used for livestock. During the harsh winter, the presence of animals helped regulate the internal temperature of the tower, while simultaneously ensuring the safety of the family’s essential assets.
• Middle Levels: These floors functioned as living quarters for the Tsiskarauli family. The interiors are austere, focusing on survival and durability.
• Top Level: Designed for observation and active defense, this platform provided a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain paths. The narrow loopholes allowed guards to monitor the gorge without exposing themselves to fire.

Due to the interconnected nature of Shatili, the Kharati Tower is physically linked to neighboring structures. This layout allowed the inhabitants to move between houses through hidden passages and roofs, enabling collective defense and support during emergencies.

Driving and Access

Access to Shatili is achieved via the Datvisjvari Pass. The road is unpaved and crosses high-altitude terrain, making it suitable only for 4x4 vehicles. The route is operational from late spring through early autumn. Always check local weather forecasts before setting out, as the pass is susceptible to heavy fog and rapid climate shifts. Once in the village, the ground consists of steep, uneven stone stairs and narrow passages. Wear footwear with high-traction soles to avoid slipping, as these paths remain damp even in dry weather.

Historical Significance

The towers in the Arghuni Gorge were more than just residences; they were the foundation of a semi-autonomous society that managed its own borders. The Tsiskarauli family played a significant role in the security of the gorge, and the maintenance of this tower was a matter of survival. When exploring the structure, observe the masonry patterns—each stone was selected for its load-bearing capacity, demonstrating the high level of technical knowledge possessed by local builders without the use of modern tools.