The small city of Mtskheta was once the ancient capital of the Eastern Georgian Kingdom. Nowadays is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest cities of Georgia. A perfect stop to any trip to Georgia.
The city is a 40-minute drive from the capital Tbilisi. Making Mtskheta an easy and enjoyable day trip from the capital.
There are several historical monuments which together make up the world heritage site.
Must-see Places in Mtskheta
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
Svetitskhoveli is the biggest cathedral in the country, dates back to the 11th-century and is a UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Samtavro Church
A large church now part of a nunnery.
Armaztsikhe-Bagineti
An archaeological site of the residence of Iverian rulers.
Jvari Monastery
The 6th Century “ Monastery of the Cross” is the oldest Christian Monasteries in the country
Located on a mountaintop with a great view of the meeting between the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers as well as the city of Mtskheta.
Jvari Monastery is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Bebris Tsikhe
A castle located on a mountaintop in northern Mtskheta with great views, seven minutes drive from the town.
How to get to Mtskheta
You can either travel by marshrutka or train, both options are affordable
Marshrutkas depart regularly from Didube Bus Station which is located right next to the Didube Metro Station.
Mtskheta lies on the Tbilisi-Kutaisi railway and all trains connecting these cities stop at Mtskheta.
The train station lies 2 km from the city centre. It’s possible to walk, or you can take a marshrutka from the station to the centre.
Have you ever been to Mtskheta or other places in the Mtianeti region?
photography – all rights reserved – Ana Rocha