Vardzia

Vardzia, an extraordinary cave city complex near Akhalkalaki, Georgia, is an essential destination for tourists seeking to explore Georgia's rich historical and cultural heritage. Nestled on the cliffs above the Mtkvari River and close to the Turkish border, Vardzia was constructed during the 12th and 13th centuries. This multi-level marvel, originally designed for the protection of Georgia's southern boundaries, features an intricate network of rooms, tunnels, and staircases that connect monasteries, fortresses, libraries, and dwellings.

Here you can marvel at its impressive scale, with over 600 rooms stretching 800 meters along the cliff face, standing eight stories high and reaching a depth of 50 meters. The complex was ingeniously designed to serve both defensive and spiritual purposes, capable of housing up to 20,000 people during times of conflict. You can also visit the Church of the Assumption, adorned with exquisite 12th-century frescoes depicting New Testament scenes and royal portraits of Giorgi III and Queen Tamar. The church's interior, with its preserved frescoes, offers a unique glimpse into Georgia's medieval art and religious history.

The site's extensive system of secret tunnels allowed Georgian soldiers to mount surprise attacks on invaders, and today, you can explore these passages to get a sense of the city's defensive strategies. The complex also served as a significant spiritual center, housing numerous monks and continuing to function as a monastery to this day, with a small community of monks residing in the caves.

Tourists can access Vardzia easily from Tbilisi by shuttle van to nearby towns such as Gudauri, Pasanauri, or Stepantsminda. Guides are available at the ticket office who can help you navigate certain passages and caves, enhancing the exploration experience. The heart of the complex, the Church of the Assumption, requires appropriate attire for entry, with long dresses that cover legs and head coverings for women.