Gori

Located about 80 kilometers west of Tbilisi, Gori is the administrative capital of the Shida Kartli region and a hub of Georgian history and culture. Many of its 50,000 residents live in Soviet-era buildings, as a 1920 earthquake destroyed most of the older structures, making it a great destination for those interested in Soviet architecture.

At the heart of Gori, the 13th-century Gori Fortress stands atop a rocky hill, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding Caucasus Mountains. Below the fortress, a 2010 sculpture of knights serves as a reminder of the territories temporarily lost to Russia during the 2008 Russo-Georgian War.

Gori is famously known as the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. The Stalin Museum, located in the city center, houses over 60,000 artifacts from his life, including his childhood home and armored railway carriage. Another notable museum is the Gori Museum of History and Ethnography, which features archaeological collections dating back to the 4th millennium BCE.

Gori's Modern Architecture Institute offers a contemporary perspective, while the Culture & Relaxation Park provides a serene escape. Established in the 12th century by King David IV, Gori is one of Georgia's oldest cities, featuring historic fortresses, museums, and art galleries. The Goris-Tsikhe fortress, dating back to the 5th-4th centuries BC, offers panoramic views of the valley. With its rich history, cultural landmarks, and beautiful landscapes, Gori is a captivating destination for tourists seeking an authentic Georgian experience.