Mtskheta -A Journey Through Georgia’s Christian Heritage

Jvari monastery – Svetitskhoveli cathedral – Samtavro monastery

This itinerary takes you on a full-day excursion to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, exploring its significant Christian sites.

10:00 AM: Depart from Tbilisi

11:00 AM: Arrive at Jvari Monastery

• Explore the 6th-century monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Learn about the history of Christianity in Georgia and the role of St. Nino.

In the 4th millennium BC. e. in this place life was born, a city was formed, and one of the first developed layers of society on the territory of Georgia was formed. All this has been proven by archaeological excavations on the Bagineti hill, which can be clearly seen from the Jvari monastery, it stands above the old capital of Georgia, the city of Mtskheta. The monastery rises above the confluence of the two rivers Aragvi and Kura (Mtkvari). The history of the founding of the monastery begins with the arrival of St. Nino to this area. A miraculous place and temple with a history of 1500 years will not let you forget about it. The temple has been protected by UNESCO since 1994.

12:30 PM: Visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

• Marvel at the 11th-century cathedral, a masterpiece of Georgian architecture.
• See the tomb of St. Andrew the First-Called and other significant relics.

The next stop is Svetitskhoveli, the 11th century cathedral, the first stone of which was laid under St. Nino. Here is the shroud of Christ and the life-giving pillar over the burial of Saint Sidonia. The history of the temple and all the shrines that are located here and have been collected for thousands of years have determined the significance of this unique place in the Christian world. In addition to religious treasures, the entire history of ancient Georgia was accumulated here.

2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Mtskheta.

The city of Mtskheta was restored and given the appearance of an ancient trading city as during the times of King Vakhtang Gorgasali. There are many shops with souvenirs, cafes, Georgian spices and sweets will meet you along the way. If you wish, you can visit a local cloisonne enamel workshop and make your own jewelry.

3:00 PM: Visit Samtavro Monastery.

• Explore the 4th-century monastery, associated with St. Nino and Queen Nana.
• See the tombs of St. Nino and King Mirian.

• Learn about the history of the region and the transition from paganism to Christianity.
• 3:30 PM: Depart from Mtskheta.
• 4:30 PM: Arrive back in Tbilisi.