Fortress Batonis-Ciche - an ancient fortification, located in the central part of the city of Telavi, has a rich history. Translated from the old-Georgian language "Batonis-Tsikhe" means "castle lord." Built in XVII-XVIII Art. Fortress was one of the principal residences of several kings of Kakheti. According to historical records, the building has been constructed in two phases - the first phase refers to 1667-1675, at the second - by the end of the second half of the XVIII century.

Georgian defensive fortifications were built of solid limestone. The stones of the castle, which was built to have an uneven shape. Fortress walls interrupted periodically bunk tower, giving a perfect view of the construction. On the second floor you can see the castle tower windows elongated. The towers were built in the second phase of construction of the citadel, in the XVIII century., So the windows are very large, and most of all, are the adornment of the fortress, not loopholes. The roofs of the towers are the original form. In general, the architectural appearance of the fortress-Batonis Tsikhe typical Georgian architecture.

One temple built in 1758 King Irakli II, the second - the court Archil Church - was built even earlier. At the fortress there is a monument dedicated to the king Irakli II.

Currently, there is an art gallery, which holds paintings by famous Georgian, Italian, Russian, French, and Dutch artists. The palace also opened ethnographic museum.

From the walls of the fortress offers stunning views of the deep bottom of the dale. Particular attention attract large vineyards, groves of mulberry and walnut trees, green and silver bend Alazan and billowing skyward stacked mountains.