Tbilisi-Mtskheta: two ancient legends

What to expect

Tbilisi

Sulphur baths - to the origins of Tbilisi
We will start our acquaintance with the city in the area of the sulfur baths, in the very place where the history of the Georgian capital began. I will tell you about the legend associated with King Vakhtang and the foundation of the city, as well as about the baths themselves, which have always been popular among the Tbilisians. They discussed the latest news here, held feasts, and local matchmakers even conducted bride shows. Moreover, many famous people visited the hot springs - Pushkin, Dumas father, and recently - Sting.

From the waterfall to the oldest square in the city
Then we will walk along the Legvtakhevi gorge, which became a favorite place for all the city guests after its clearance in 2012. Here you will see a rare phenomenon - a waterfall in the center of the city. We will cross to the other side of the gorge, climb a spiral staircase, and walk through beautiful streets to the oldest square in the city - Meidan. It was here that the famous Armenian poet Sayat-Nova recited his poems, and nearby the famous artist Niko Pirosmani sold milk.

Former craft rows and caravanserai
Next, we will move on to the quarter of Sharden Street, where the rows of craftsmen used to be, and each street has its own name: Cotton Rows, Iron Rows, and Dark Rows (now Jean Sharden Street). Along the way, you will see the caravanserai where the heir to the Russian throne - Alexander II, was received. And on Sioni Street, you will be greeted by the statue of 'Tamada,' an enlarged copy of the ancient statuette found in the Vani archaeological site.

History of Sioni Cathedral
We will approach the Sioni Cathedral, where I will tell you about its turbulent history, numerous destructions during invasions and restoration works, as well as about the main shrine of the cathedral - the cross of Saint Nino. Additionally, we will talk about Alexander Griboyedov, who got married in this church to Princess Nino Chavchavadze. Opposite Sioni, you will see the bell tower of 1812, a gift to the city from Emperor Alexander II.

Trading rows, ancient churches, and the Bridge of Peace
During the walk, you will also see the former caravanserais, where there were trading points, hotel rooms, and warehouses. Stepping into the carpet shop, you will feel like you're transported back in time and can imagine what the shops looked like in the past. You will stroll across the modern symbol of the city - the Bridge of Peace, see the oldest sanctuary in Tbilisi - the 6th-century Anchiskhati Church. And take a photo near the most unusual clock tower at the puppet theater.

Mtskheta

Sanctuaries of Georgia's first capital
Then we will head to Mtskheta - the first capital and one of the oldest cities in Georgia simultaneously. Here, you will find many sanctuaries, one of which is the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the main cathedral of Georgia. It is beneath it that the chiton of Jesus Christ rests. Inside, you will see other relics of the cathedral: the life-giving pillar, the relics of the first-called Andrew, the wooden cross containing a particle of the true cross on which Jesus was crucified. You will also see the tombstones of the kings and much more.

Jvari Monastery and local cuisine
After strolling through the beautiful narrow streets and trying local sweets and wine, we will head to the Jvari Monastery. The monastery was located at the site of the first cross erected by Saint Nino, thanks to which Georgia adopted Orthodoxy in the 4th century. This monastery was mentioned by M. Y. Lermontov in the poem 'Mtsyri'. From here, you will have a wonderful view of the confluence of the two rivers Kura and Aragvi, which has long been one of Georgia's traditional 'postcards'.