Uplistsikhe

Uplistsikhe is a cave town carved in a big rock formation of sandstone. It is located in the central part of Georgia, just 10 kilometers away from the town of Gori. Dating back to the second millennium B.C., Uplistsikhe is one of the oldest towns in the world. Today, as a historical-architectural museum-reserve, Uplistsikhe has gone through many metamorphoses. It had served as a sacred temple town where only the highest priests had the right to stay. Many mysterious religious rituals were conducted in Uplistsikhe in those times, resemblances to which we can still find in some traditions and habits in Georgia today.

History

Uplistsikhe had been a sacred town for Pagan tribes; later, it saw major changes brought by Christians in the 4^th century A.D. In the Middle Ages, Uplistsikhe represented a fortified town with a great strategic location. The Georgian and Armenian kings fought over it. In the fourteenth century, after invasions of Mongols, life in Uplistsikhe diminished and later disappeared entirely. It became a shelter for shepherds who left their trace there. Inscriptions and holes on the walls of the temples speak about them. There is so much more information that this town is still keeping from us. Ongoing archaeological excavations will unravel many more mysteries in the future. Because of its valuable artifacts, Uplistsikhe remains one of the most important archaeological sites in the country. It gave us lots of knowledge about our ancestors and the ancient and medieval history of Georgia.

How to Travel To

If you appear near Gori, do not miss Uplistsikhe. It is quite easily accessible; just hire a taxi from the city center of Gori; cabs are found in the market area of Gori as well. A long history deeply connected to a number of legends and folk stories, together with its location, makes Uplistsikhe very interesting for each visitor. Sandstone caves give the impression of discovering something great and unique. As with many settlements in Georgia, Uplistsikhe is located on a hill, meaning it has captivating views. In springtime, one can enjoy the contrast created between golden sandstone formations and greenery on the embankment of the river Mtkvari. In summer, sandstone together with sun-kissed golden valleys makes the area even more attractive; however, avoiding midday hours is advisable.

If you would like to plan a visit to Uplistsikhe, we are here for your service.