The Skhvilo fortress complex is first mentioned in the chronicles in the 10th century: among those loyal to Kvirike, eristavi of the Kakhetians, are named Dachi and Ivane of Skhvilo. From the 14th century the fortress's history is bound up with the rise of the Zevdginidze-Amilakhvari family; in the 17th century it was their residence, and from the 17th century Skhvilo fortress appears frequently in historical sources. In 1629, after the death of Shah Abbas, Teimuraz I attempted to break free of Persian domination, and it became necessary to remove King Simon II, who had fortified himself in Skhvilo fortress.