The reasons for the construction of the characteristic swan towers are the protection from external and internal enemies, as well as the blood revenge. It is believed that they were built between the 9th and 12th centuries. Some historians believe that the towers were built a little later – in the 12th – 13th century, during the reign of Queen Tamara. They are made of stone, with a height of 20-30 m. In case of danger, the family stores food and water in them, and on the first floor the domestic animals are kept. The dwellings are connected to the towers by secret passages known only to the elders of the family. Sometimes false passages ending in traps are built. More than 2 meters from the surface, the towers have no doors or windows. Above, at the level of the second or third floor, a small door is provided, which can be accessed only by an escalator. An observation deck is being built at the top of the tower. Sometimes they had to live in them for years until the threat passed. The towers, together with the residential buildings attached to them, are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List