Mtskheta and Ananuri: about faith and nature

What to expect

Path of Georgian Christianity in Mtskheta and Jvari
From Tbilisi, you will head to its most famous suburb - Mtskheta, whose history dates back to the first millennium BC. You will learn why this place is called the 'soul of Sakartvelo' and hear the legend of the origin of the self-designation of Georgia. You will be transported back to the times when Mtskheta was the capital of the Iberian Kingdom, and learn about the city's life during the Great Silk Road era. But the main focus of the story, of course, will be Georgian Christianity - it was in Mtskheta in the 4th century that its history began. You will visit the cathedral of Svetitskhoveli - a symbol of Georgian Orthodoxy: under its vaults is kept the chiton of Jesus Christ and representatives of the Bagrationi royal dynasty are buried. Near Mtskheta, at the site of the establishment of the first cross in Georgia, stands the Jvari Monastery: you will enjoy the local landscapes and feel the spirit of antiquity.

16th century fortress on a crystal-clear lake
The journey will continue further north, along the ancient Military-Georgian road, the fate of which I will also tell you about. We will not stop at typical tourist photo spots, but at insider locations with perfect angles for both viewing and photography! You will admire the azure surface of the Jinvali Reservoir and the surrounding forested mountains. And I will tell you about the creation of the artificial lake, the sad destruction of old villages, and the modern significance of Jinvali. This part of the trip also includes Ananuri Fortress, whose powerful walls and medieval towers are associated with the Aragvi princes.