The Best Places you can Visit In Mtskheta | Georgia

It is the second largest church in Georgia, known for its intricate frescoes, carved stone decorations, and as the burial site of the claimed Christ’s mantle. The cathedral has a long and storied history, having been damaged and rebuilt numerous times over the centuries.

Location: Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is located in the historic town of Mtskheta, about 20 km northwest of Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital city. The cathedral stands prominently in the center of Mtskheta, visible from many points in the old town.

How to Get There: Mtskheta is easily accessible from Tbilisi by mini-bus, which runs regularly between the two cities. The journey takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or drive yourself in about 40 minutes.

What Can See: Inside the cathedral, you can admire the intricate frescoes and icons, many of which are reproduced throughout Georgia. The carved stone decorations, including grape motifs reflecting Georgia’s wine-making heritage, are also noteworthy. The cathedral contains the tombs of several Georgian kings and patriarchs.

What Can Do: Visitors can attend religious services, light candles, and explore the cathedral’s rich history and architecture. The cathedral grounds also feature shops, cafes, and a tourist information office.

Conclusion: Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Georgia’s history, culture, and religious heritage. Its impressive size, beautiful decorations, and significant role in Georgia’s past make it a highlight of any trip to Mtskheta.

The monastery is a masterpiece of early medieval Georgian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the church, which features intricate stone carvings and frescoes, and enjoy panoramic views of Mtskheta and the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers.

Location: Jvari Monastery is situated on a 770-meter-high mountaintop, about 2 km from the center of Mtskheta. The monastery is accessible by a winding road or a steep footpath.

How to Get There: From Mtskheta, you can take a taxi or drive yourself to the monastery in about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk up the footpath, which takes around 30-40 minutes.

What Can See: The main attraction of Jvari Monastery is the 6th-century church, which features beautiful stone carvings and frescoes. Visitors can also explore the monastery grounds and enjoy the stunning views of Mtskheta and the surrounding countryside.

What Can Do: Visitors can attend religious services, light candles, and explore the monastery’s history and architecture. The monastery also offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Mtskheta.

Conclusion: Jvari Monastery is a breathtaking example of early medieval Georgian architecture and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Georgia’s religious and cultural heritage. The monastery’s stunning location and beautiful decorations make it a highlight of any trip to Mtskheta.

The site is significant for its role in the spread of Christianity in Georgia, as it is believed to be the location where St. Nino, the patron saint of Georgia, preached and converted King Mirian III to Christianity in the 4th century.

Location: Samtavro is located in the heart of Mtskheta, just a short walk from Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

How to Get There: Samtavro is easily accessible on foot from the center of Mtskheta. The site is just a 5-10 minute walk from Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the ruins of the 4th-century church, which is believed to be one of the earliest Christian churches in Georgia. The 6th-century basilica and 17th-century church are also interesting examples of Georgian religious architecture.

What Can Do: Visitors can learn about the history of Christianity in Georgia and the role of St. Nino in its spread. The site also offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Mtskheta.

Conclusion: Samtavro is a significant site for anyone interested in Georgia’s religious and cultural heritage. Its ruins and churches provide a glimpse into the early history of Christianity in the region and the role of St. Nino in its spread.

Today, the ruins of the fortress offer stunning views of Mtskheta and the surrounding countryside.

Location: Bebris Tsikhe is situated on a hilltop about 2 km from the center of Mtskheta.

How to Get There: From Mtskheta, you can take a taxi or drive yourself to the fortress in about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can hike up the hill, which takes around 30-40 minutes.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress, which include the remains of walls, towers, and other structures. The views of Mtskheta and the surrounding countryside from the hilltop are also breathtaking.

What Can Do: Visitors can learn about the history of the fortress and its role in protecting Mtskheta from invaders. The site also offers a peaceful retreat and hiking opportunities.

Conclusion: Bebris Tsikhe is a unique historical site that offers stunning views and a glimpse into Georgia’s military history. The fortress ruins and hiking opportunities make it a worthwhile addition to any visit to Mtskheta.

The monastery is named after St. Shio, one of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers who introduced monasticism to Georgia in the 6th century. The monastery complex includes several churches, chapels, and living quarters carved into the cave walls.

Location: Shio Mgvime Monastery is situated in a cave complex in the Saguramo Range, about 20 km from Mtskheta.

How to Get There: From Mtskheta, you can take a taxi or drive yourself to the monastery in about 30 minutes. The road leading to the monastery is winding and steep in places.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the churches, chapels, and living quarters carved into the cave walls. The monastery also features beautiful frescoes and stone carvings. The natural setting of the monastery, surrounded by cliffs and forests, is also breathtaking.

What Can Do: Visitors can attend religious services, light candles, and learn about the history of monasticism in Georgia. The monastery also offers a peaceful retreat and hiking opportunities in the surrounding forests.

Conclusion: Shio Mgvime Monastery is a unique and beautiful example of Georgia’s religious heritage. Its cave-carved structures and natural setting make it a fascinating and memorable destination for anyone interested in Georgia’s history and culture.

The monastery is named after St. Zedazeni, another of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers who introduced monasticism to Georgia. The monastery complex includes several churches and living quarters, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Location: Zedazeni Monastery is situated on Mount Zedazeni, about 15 km from Mtskheta.

How to Get There: From Mtskheta, you can take a taxi or drive yourself to the monastery in about 30 minutes. The road leading to the monastery is winding and steep in places.

What Can See: Visitors can explore the churches and living quarters of the monastery complex. The monastery also features beautiful frescoes and stone carvings. The views of the surrounding countryside from the monastery’s hilltop location are also breathtaking.

What Can Do: Visitors can attend religious services, light candles, and learn about the history of monasticism in Georgia. The monastery also offers a peaceful retreat and hiking opportunities in the surrounding forests and hills.

Conclusion: Zedazeni Monastery is a beautiful and historically significant destination that offers a glimpse into Georgia’s religious heritage and stunning natural scenery. Its hilltop location and well-preserved structures make it a worthwhile addition to any visit to the Mtskheta area.