Ruled by a powerful dynasty of Liparitids-Baghuashi, the duchy existed in the south-western parts of modern Kvemo Kartli province, and, despite its small size, created problems for the Bagrationi kings as they sought to bring all Georgian vassals and principalities into a unified state.

They quickly rose in prominence, gaining more possessions and prestige and when, in the early 11th century, the Bagratid dynasty established the unified all-Georgian monarchy, the Liparitids were among its most powerful vassals and rivals.

With the military support from the Byzantine Empire, Liparit defeated Bagrat at the Battle of Sasireti in 1042, and became a virtual ruler of Georgia, but eventually was forced out by his own subjects in 1059.

David IV, a new and perhaps the most successful king of Georgia, forced the Liparitid-Baghuashi into submission in 1093 and checked their subsequent attempts to revolt.

In 1103, David took advantage of the death of the last Kldekarian duke Rati III and abolished the duchy by incorporating the area directly into the royal domain.