Fodor's Expert Review Gonio Fortress

Less than 16 km (10 miles) south of Batumi, near the Turkish border, lies one of Georgia's oldest recorded settlements. Born as a Roman fortification in the 3rd century BC, the structure was adopted and modified by succeeding waves of conquerers including the Byzantines and Ottomans. Today's ruins date mostly to the 16th century and contain impressive 16-foot-high walls and eighteen towers. The site is also believed to be the resting place of Matthew, one of the twelve Apostles. Excavations are ongoing.