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Stepantsminda Kazbegi Georgia Travel

Stepantsminda

152 km north of Tbilisi, in the historical province of Khevi, is located the settlement of Stepantsminda. With a population of 3818 people, it is one of the smallest townships in Georgia, but it is a unique destination to travel to. The mix of authentic households, ancient traditions, and locals makes this place unique.

Even the finest writers wouldn’t be able to describe the beauty of the places and people around Stepantsminda; however, we will try. The bare cliffs, alpine lakes, acidic waters, waterfalls, traditional households, and iconic Kazbegi Mountain are mesmerizing. The feeling of all-encompassing freedom one can experience while standing in front of Gergeti Trinity Cathedral is unrepeatable. Perhaps this is the reason for the development of the brave, invincible, and free spirits of the locals. No borders and no restrictions on their freedom were a moving force for the local Mokheve people for centuries. This is how they call themselves even today. Locals on their own, with their Mokhevian dialect and pagan traditions that they follow to this day, are the biggest charm of the place.

History

Stepantsminda had been settled a long time ago. The treasure discovered on the territory of Kazbegi is dated to the 6^th and 5^th centuries B.C., and it is believed that this treasure belonged to one of the ancient tribes inhabiting the Caucasus. The Dariali Fortress that was built in the 2^nd century B.C., ruins of different fortifications, and households dated to the early Middle Ages prove that life was present in these places continuously. In spite of harsh climate conditions, Stepantsminda was always settled. This fact can be explained by the following: There is only one natural passage that connects the South Caucasus to the North Caucasus, and it is located in Dariali Gorge, just 11 km from Stepantsminda. In earlier times, it was part of important trading routes. According to historical sources, it was part of the famous Silk Road; therefore, it was economically and strategically one of the most significant parts of the country. Stepantsminda remains a border town and a cross point for important international routes. A number of trucks with plate numbers from different countries lined up on the sides of the road at all times is proof of that.

What To Do

Today, Stepantsminda is a favorite destination for travelers. People of all tastes can find something interesting there; however, it is a must-go place for nature lovers. For them, there is a lot to do. Hiking in small hamlets or tracking on trails through mountains and cliffs that are called “Chaukhi” by locals, enjoying the beautiful sights of waterfalls, bubbly lakes, and acidic waters. Visiting the Gergeti Cathedral is a must for every visitor of Stepantsminda. For experienced mountain climbers, the path goes even further than Gergeti Trinity Cathedral; the tour to the top of the glacier of Mount Kazbegi is for them! Horseback riding, paragliding, cable cars, and other activities can also be done around Kazbegi.

Name

Many people wonder why Stepantsminda is called so and what it means. Here is an interesting piece of information: According to a folk story, there was a man named Ghrubela Fitskhelauri who became a monk and, in his monkhood, changed his name to Stephan. He served at a local chapel, which was located slightly further from the main settlement. One time he saw an avalanche coming to the hamlet. With rapid bell-ringing, he managed to warn people. They escaped, moved, and built a new hamlet in a safer place. Ever since the new hamlet was called Stepantsminda in honor of a local monk.