Explore Kartli province, the heart of the country, known for its fertile lands, numerous architectural monuments & archaeological sites. This trip gives us an opportunity to visit the largest and the most important sites of Kartli: Mtskheta – the ancient capital of eastern Georgia and impressive rock cut town Uplistsikhe situated near town Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin.

Sites to visit:

• Jvari Church (6th-7th cc) – Jvari church, a masterpiece of the early Medieval Period. St. Nino erected the first wooden cross at the site. Its pedestal can still be seen in the centre of the church. This example of classic tetra conch design with all its miniature size, strikes the viewers with its grandeur and integrity.
• Svetitskhoveli which may be translated as “The Life-giving pillar”, is the main church of Mtskheta and a sacred place where the robe of Christ is being kept. An enormous cedar tree grew on a place where Christ’s robe was buried. The place was chosen as a site for the future church. The branches of this magic tree served for constructed pillars. This bright example of Georgian renaissance architecture was erected by architect Arsukidze in 11th c, in the place where the first church in Georgia once stood in the 4th c.
• Uplistsikhe – meaning “The Fortress of God”, an ancient cave town from the 1st half of the 1st millennium BC situated on the crossroads of important trade routs. It was the main centre of paganism, and represents a complex of halls, caves, theatres, altars, pagan temples, secret tunnels, prisons, pharmacy, passages-streets all carved out of stone over an area of 4 hectares. At its peak of prosperity, the city had a population of 20 000. In 9th -10th cc AD a three-nave basilica was added to the complex.
• Stalin’s Museum – Stalin’s museum, his family house and railway coach

Notes:

For your convenience we suggest to wear sport shoes. Please do not forget sun cream, hat, warm jacket and raincoat.