Signagi
On our way to Tibilsi, Georgia's Capital, we stopped at Signagi, a fortified town with winding cobblestone streets.
The town, which stands in a commanding position above the Alazani Valley, was fortified in the 18th century with defensive walls; 23 towers; and 6 gates, against invading tribesmen. After the Russian invasion, in the early 19th century, it was annexed to Imperial Russia and later became part of the Soviet Union.
This is a particularly picturesque part of the world. In soviet times Signagi became a centre for the Georgian wine industry and a popular holiday destination. Today Signagi is known as Georgia's city of love, where many Georgians choose to stay on their wedding night.
Like much of Georgia it was hard hit by the collapse of the Soviet Union and some evidence of the ensuing decay remains. But as we could easily see, much has recovered and in general Signagi appears to be prosperous again (even more so?).
Signagi - Georgia's city of love
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