Akhaltsikhe which literally means “new fortress” is a city in the south of Georgia. It is the administrative centre of Samtskhe-Javakheti region. It was founded in the first half of the 12th century and is situated on the river Potskhov. The highways leading to Batumi, Borjomi, and Akhalkalaki pass through the city.
During 14-80s of 16th century it was a cultural, political and economic residence of Jaghetsi dynasty. In 1579 the city fell under the domination of Ottoman Empire, and since 1628 the city has become the centre of Akhaltsikhe province of Ottoman Empire. In the result of the arrangement of Adrianapolis, Akhaltsikhe joined the Russian Empire. Before 1917 Akhaltsikhe had 9 Armenian churches (3 of which survived up to now, and only one-the church St.Gregory the Illuminator operates). Another church St. Nshan, though standing, has not been returned to the Georgio-Armenian episcopate up to now after being seized during the times of Soviet Union.