Ananuri complex (cathedral and fortified town – XVI-XVII cc.) is located in Dusheti region, about 23 km from the town of Dusheti, in river Aragvi gorge, on the coast of Zhinvali water basin. Ananuri used to be a residence of Aragvi rulers (up to 1743) and consisted of Upper (XVII c.) and Lower (XVIII c.) fortresses and secular and religious constructions included in it: pyramid-type five-floor tower of Ananuri citadel (XIV-XV cc.), one-nave church Mkurnali (Healer) (XVI-XVII cc.), dome cathedral of Deity (middle of XVII c.) and main cathedral (in 1689 was built by Kaikhosro Bagsarashvili by order of Aragvi ruler). Fresco painting of the main cathedral today is rather damaged. Doors and windows are trimmed by ornamented bas-relief compositions.

Citadel of Ananuri fortress consists of several towers of which only southern and western central towers are quadrangular, the rest of them have cylinder form. Walls of the fortress at first did not exceed 5-6 meters, but later they were added 2-3 meters. All towers of the citadel are for combat but are also equipped with living elements. The biggest and most distinguished is Sheupovari (Audacious). It has seven levels. It was equipped with gun emplacements, cannons and loopholes for pelting stones. Ananuri fortress had its own running water from western wall which was then collected in the repositories. Big strategic importance of Ananuri fortress is proved by the fact that in 1795 after defeat in Krtsanisi battle king Erekle II found refuge in Ananuri. Today Ananuri is one of the best preserved historical and 

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