Vardzia

Georgia once was a large country, with its borders stretching from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea. It was a country of great richness and great power. Things changed, but the past can be seen and found in monuments like Vardzia. This huge cave town is located in the southern part of Georgia, in the historical province of Javakheti, 230 km from Tbilisi. It had once been a symbol of the religious and political power of the country. Built in the 12^th century A.D., Vardzia represented a huge monastery complex, full of living spaces, churches, libraries, and pharmacies. Cave Town is located 1300 meters above sea level and has three levels. About 600 caves were discovered in Vardzia, with 25 wine cellars and 185 wine jars.

History

The monastery complex of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary of Vardzia is distinguished by its fresco paintings. Late 12^th century frescoes of Queen Tamar, George III, and other nobles adorn the walls of the church of Vardzia. The fresco of Queen Tamar is the earliest fresco of her, dating to the 80s of the 12^th century. It depicts the Queen before she was married. In the 16^th century, Vardzia was raged first by Iranians and then by Ottomans. Its caves and the library were burned down, and many monks were killed. Gradually, the monastery became deserted. Today, monastic life is revived in Vardzia, so it is not only a historical monument but an active monastery complex.

What To Do

Among the many reasons why Vardzia is a popular destination are the beautiful landscapes of the mountains, the river Mtkvari, the cave town, and the surrounding area. What else is Vardzia? Vardzia is Javakheti, Georgia’s southern province, a place that used to take the first hit from the conquerors and was the object of invasions for centuries. Javakheti is made up of traditional stone houses submerged in the ground, stone ovens where local ladies bake bread and cheese pies, households with fish farms, and places where “Chechili” is made. Javakheti is a place with lots of sheep and cattle, lots of fish, and rocky areas in the colors of autumn. So visit, see, taste, and experience Georgia. We are waiting for you!

What To See

• Khertvisi Fortress
• Village Aspindza 
• Vani Caves
• Tmogvi Fortress