Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe: Journey to Pre-Christian Georgia
About this experience
People come to the spiritual capital of Georgia to touch the origins of Christianity in our land. But the history of Mtskheta is much deeper and richer, as you will learn more about near the ruins of the fortress of Armazis Tsikhe. We will look at cult monuments, talk about the pagan era. And later we will continue acquaintance with antiquity in the cave town of Uplistsikhe, an important monument of Georgian culture.
What to Expect
Mtskheta from a new perspective
We will walk through the ruins of the ancient city of Armazi in the southeast of the ancient capital of Kartli. It is located two kilometers from it, on Mount Bagineti, on the right bank of the Kura River. Few travelers come here, but in vain! Getting acquainted with ancient heritage will allow you to understand and know Mtskheta better. I will tell you about the idol of the god Armazi (the main in the local pantheon) that once stood here. I will also show you the ancient sarcophagus, royal baths, six-apsed temple, wine cellar (marani), and hall with columns.
We will not overlook the main symbols of the city. On the opposite bank of the river, you will see the monuments of the Early and Late Middle Ages: the temples Jvari and Svetitskhoveli, as well as the monastery of St. Stephen, Samtavro.
Rock-Hewn town of Uplistsikhe
In the second part of the program, we will go to a city of special cultural significance, included in the UNESCO list. Uplistsikhe is carved into the volcanic rocks of the Qvernaki ridge, not far from the city of Gori. I will introduce you to the history of the cult Kartli structure and tell you about the numerous temples of the complex dedicated to the sun goddess.
Organizational Details
- The price includes the services of a guide and transfer by minivan or car (depending on the number of people in your group)
- Additional expenses: tickets to the Uplistsikhe museum complex - 15 lari per person (just over 5 euros)
- I recommend wearing comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers, taking a sun hat, sunglasses, and a bottle of drinking water
