Journey to Georgia's Troglodyte Cities
Nestled between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea, Georgia straddles Eastern Europe and Western Asia. A country steeped in history, this jewel of the Caucasus preserves an exceptional natural heritage.
Nestled between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea, Georgia straddles Eastern Europe and Western Asia. A country steeped in history, this jewel of the Caucasus preserves an exceptional natural heritage. Its most breathtaking sites? The remarkable rock-hewn cities that adorn its landscape! Villages carved directly into stone and a monastic complex clinging to a mountainside… Keen to visit Vardzia, Uplistsikhe, or the David Garedja monastery? Follow us on a journey through Georgia's troglodyte cities.
Vardzia: A City Sculpted into the Erusheti Mountain
Vardzia is a troglodyte city located in southern Georgia, in the mountainous region of Samtskhe-Javakheti. It was founded by King George III and later embellished by his daughter, Queen Tamar (renowned for her legendary beauty). The city mirrors her splendor—celebrated worldwide for its majesty!
Medieval Frescoes Preserved Through the Centuries
This vast clifftop city once comprised thousands of spaces carved into the rock, distributed across some ten levels. Although part of this extraordinary settlement was destroyed by an earthquake in 1283, Vardzia preserves treasures unique in the world, including its remarkable rock paintings. These murals (dating from the tenth to twelfth centuries) hold immense historical value. On the walls of the main church, you can admire portraits of Georgia's ancient royal family!
A Cave Site Listed by UNESCO
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007, this remarkable Georgian city boasts numerous religious structures. Queen Tamar once commissioned the construction of a monastery here to preserve her people's culture. Yet, facing enemy threats, she ordered the building of a sanctuary… underground! After thirty years of conflict, Georgia won the war and the Queen became a revered figure. Today, a few monks still inhabit the caves of this sacred site.
Practical Information
Address: Gogasheni (Samtskhe-Javakheti region)
Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission: 7 GEL (approximately €2.20)
Tip: For an additional 1 GEL, you can opt for the "vehicle option." A minibus will take you directly to the site from the parking area. Perfect on particularly hot days.
Uplistsikhe: An Open-Air Museum Carved into Stone
The City of God in the Mtkvari Valley
The rock city of Uplistsikhe, is among the oldest troglodyte cities in the Caucasus. Located some 10 kilometers east of Gori, it was once an essential stop on the Silk Road. During the Middle Ages, this exceptional "City of God" was home to 20,000 inhabitants, spread across more than 700 caves!
The Archaeological Sites of Uplistsikhe
The ancient fortress of Uplistsikhe preserves numerous tunnels, dwellings, churches, and amphitheaters—architectural remains that reveal the craftsmanship of medieval artisans! Must-see highlights? The ancient theater with its octagonal ceiling from the Bronze Age, and the "Queen Tamar chamber." This medieval city also offers panoramic views across the Mtkvari valley.
Practical Information
Address: Gori (Inner Kartli region)
Opening Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: 3 GEL (approximately €1)
Tip: Due to the climate, the ideal time to explore the city is between June and September.
David Garedja: A Troglodyte Monastery Nestled in a Desert Valley
Founded in the early sixth century by Saint David (one of Georgia's greatest kings), the David Garedja monastic complex is less touristy than Vardzia and Uplistsikhe, yet it truly deserves a thorough exploration!
Situated in a desert zone on the border between Azerbaijan and Georgia, some 25 kilometers from Tbilisi, this ancient center of learning once housed around twenty monasteries. Although ravaged by warfare over the centuries, it preserves much of its original architecture. The site's finest treasures, inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List? The medieval frescoes adorning the walls of the priory!
Practical Information
Address: Udabno (Kakheti region)
Admission: Free
Duration: Between 30 minutes and one hour of walking to reach the site
Tip: Bring water and sun protection (sunscreen, hat, etc.)
Georgia's Troglodyte Sites: A Journey to Discover the Region's Greatest Treasures
Georgia's rock-hewn cities are integral to the country's landscape. Rich and captivating, they can be explored in countless ways. Among them, a custom-tailored itinerary: an easy way to discover them without worrying about transportation or ticket purchases. Want to learn more about Georgia's history and culture? Lace up your hiking boots… and embark on an unforgettable journey into the rocky depths of this remarkable country!
Frequently asked questions
Vardzia is located approximately 300 kilometers south of Tbilisi. You can reach it by rental car (allow 4 to 5 hours), by bus from Didube Bus Station with a connection in Akhaltsikhe, or by joining an organized tour from Tbilisi. The latter option is ideal for combining Vardzia with other sites in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region.
Yes, these three sites can be integrated into a Georgia itinerary, but their geographic distance requires careful planning. Uplistsikhe is 100 kilometers from Tbilisi, David Garedja about 60 kilometers away, and Vardzia 300 kilometers. Plan a minimum of 3 to 4 days to comfortably visit all three sites, using Tbilisi as your departure base.
Vardzia and David Garedja are both inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Vardzia received this recognition in 2007. Uplistsikhe, while not on the main list, is an archaeological site of national importance protected by Georgian authorities. These designations testify to the exceptional historical and cultural value of these rock-hewn cities.
The optimal period to visit Georgia's rock-hewn cities is June through September, as recommended for Uplistsikhe. In spring (April-May), the landscape is verdant and temperatures pleasant. Summer can be extremely hot, especially at David Garedja in its desert location: bring plenty of water and sun protection. Winter is not recommended, as some sites may be difficult to access.
Admission prices are very affordable. Vardzia costs 7 GEL (approximately €2.20), with an on-site minibus option for an additional 1 GEL. Uplistsikhe's entry is 3 GEL (approximately €1). David Garedja is completely free. Note that these prices date from 2022 and may have changed; it's recommended to verify current rates before your visit.
