Akhaltsikhe, a castle, a city

Akhaltsikhe, a Georgian border town located 18 kilometers from Turkey, is most famous for its landmark, Rabati Castle, which towers over the town of Akhaltsikhe. On a clear day, you can take great photos. ✏Rabati Castle was built in the 9th century and has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. The current castle resembles a Disney fairy tale more than a historical building. The castle is divided into the lower castle, which is free to roam, and the upper castle, which has an entrance fee. The entire castle is like a city within a city, complete with restaurants, museums, gardens, a mosque, and a church, and even includes a four-star hotel. There are very few tourists in winter, but surprisingly, I still encountered a Chinese tour group. There are plenty of local restaurants and guesthouses at the foot of the castle. I found my accommodation by simply knocking on doors. It must be quite lively during the peak season. 📍Restaurant Mimino offers the best grilled pork ribs, thick and juicy without being greasy, and I finished two pieces in one go. 📍Restaurant Kessane, where I stayed for one night, turned out to be a restaurant with accommodation. Unfortunately, I was in a hurry to catch a bus and didn't get a chance to try the food.