UNESCO Gems of Mtskheta – Old Capital of Georgia

Georgia’s ancient capital, Mtskheta, boasts a rich tapestry of UNESCO-protected heritage sites that captivate visitors. At the heart of this cultural hub lies the Jvari Church, a 6th-century architectural marvel perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking vistas. Nearby, the grand Svetitskhoveli Cathedral stands as a testament to the country’s deep Christian roots, housing the revered Robe of Christ. But the story doesn’t end there – the nearby cave-town of Uplistsikhe unveils a remarkable network of subterranean structures, hinting at Mtskheta’s pivotal role as a political and religious center throughout history. Unraveling the secrets of these UNESCO Gems promises an unforgettable journey into Georgia’s captivating past.

Key Points

• Mtskheta, the old capital of Georgia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved historical monuments, including the 6th-century Jvari Church and the 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

• The ancient cave-town of Uplistsikhe, dating back to the 10th century BC, offers visitors a glimpse into Georgia’s rich cultural and architectural history.

• The tour includes a visit to the hometown of Joseph Stalin, Gori, where the Stalin Museum provides insights into the life and legacy of the controversial Soviet leader.

• Knowledgeable guides share engaging stories and insights about the architecture, archaeology, and history of the sites, enhancing the cultural experience for visitors.

• The tour offers door-to-door transportation and a flexible booking process, making it a convenient and accessible way to explore the UNESCO Gems of Mtskheta, the old capital of Georgia.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private, full-day tour from Tbilisi takes visitors to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia.

The highlights include the stunning 6th-century Jvari Church, the medieval Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the captivating ancient cave-town of Uplistsikhe, and the hometown of the famous leader Joseph Stalin.

With door-to-door transportation and a personalized experience, travelers can explore Georgia’s rich history and culture.

The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories and insights, making it a fascinating and well-curated experience.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, archaeology, or history, this tour offers an enriching way to discover the UNESCO gems of Mtskheta.

Tour Details and Logistics

The tour is priced starting from $59.00, with the exact cost varying based on group size. Customers can reserve the experience and pay later, and have the option to add an additional guide service during checkout.

For those interested in further exploring Georgia’s historical sites, this tour offers an opportunity to do so in the future.

With 29 reviews and a 5.0 overall rating, the experience has been praised for its engaging guides, rich historical insights, and personalized attention to individual interests.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. Most travelers can participate, though, and 24/7 online support is available for any inquiries.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the impressive tour experiences, engaging guides, and rich historical insights offered by this Mtskheta tour.

Travelers praised guides like Luka and Catherine for their extensive knowledge and willingness to share captivating stories. The tour is described as fascinating, well-curated, and adaptable to personal interests.

Reviewers consistently recommend this experience as an enriching way to explore Georgia’s ancient capital and its UNESCO World Heritage sites. With a 5.0 overall rating from 29 reviews, this tour consistently delivers an exceptional experience that immerses visitors in Mtskheta’s storied past.

Customers leave the tour with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable destination and its pivotal role in Georgia’s history.

Transportation and Support

In an article titled ‘UNESCO Gems of Mtskheta – Old Capital of Georgia’, it’s now time to discuss the current points ‘Transportation and Support’.

Private transportation is provided throughout the tour, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for participants. The tour operator offers 24/7 online support to address any inquiries customers may have. Pickup details are confirmed with travelers up to 24 hours before the tour commences, with the agent directly contacting customers to arrange the pickup arrangements.

The tour offers:

• Door-to-door transportation from your hotel

• Reliable and punctual drivers

• Comfortable vehicles for the group

• Dedicated support to ensure a hassle-free experience

Booking Information

Customers can reserve their spot on the ‘UNESCO Gems of Mtskheta – Old Capital of Georgia’ tour and pay later, providing flexibility in booking. Travelers simply select their desired date and number of participants to secure their place, with an option to add additional guide services during checkout. This tour offers an opportunity to further explore Georgia’s rich historical sites beyond the featured Mtskheta experience.

Booking Details	Information
Reserve Now, Pay Later	Available
Date & Travelers	Select during booking
Additional Guide Service	Option to add during checkout
Future Tour Opportunities	Explore more of Georgia’s historical sites

Jvari Church

What’s the 6th-century Jvari Church, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites visited during the Mtskheta tour?

This iconic church, perched atop a hill overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers, is renowned for its architectural significance and historical importance in the region.

The church features:

• A distinctive cruciform design with imposing stone walls and a central dome.

• Intricate stone carvings and frescoes adorning the interior.

• Panoramic views of the ancient city of Mtskheta and the surrounding landscape.

• A longstanding reputation as a spiritual center and place of pilgrimage for Georgians.

Jvari Church stands as a testament to Georgia’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring influence of its early Christian monuments.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

According to the tour overview, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the medieval Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in Mtskheta.

This iconic cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance within the Georgian Orthodox Christian tradition.

Featuring a cross-dome structure and ornate stone carvings, the cathedral is considered one of the masterpieces of Georgian ecclesiastical architecture.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate frescoes and learn about the cathedral’s role in housing the Robe of Christ, a relic believed to have miraculous powers.

The tour guide’s insights into the cathedral’s rich history and spiritual importance are sure to enhance the overall experience.

Uplistsikhe and Gori

In the tour, visitors also explore the ancient cave-town of Uplistsikhe, dating back to the 10th century BC.

This UNESCO-listed site, nestled atop a rocky outcrop, served as a major political and religious center during Georgia’s pre-Christian era.

Visitors can wander through the intricate network of caves, carved directly into the stone, which once housed dwellings, markets, and even a theater.

The tour also includes a stop in Gori, the hometown of Joseph Stalin.

Here, guests can visit the Stalin Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of this controversial historical figure.

The combination of these two sites provides a well-rounded understanding of Georgia’s rich and complex history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Tour?

The tour’s duration is a full day. It’s a private tour from Tbilisi that includes door-to-door transportation and visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, providing a personalized experience tailored to the group’s needs.

Is Food Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package does not include any meals. Customers are responsible for their own food and drinks during the day-long excursion. The tour focuses on historical sites and transportation, without providing catered dining options.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. The private, full-day tour offers a personalized experience tailored to the group’s interests. Customers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary as desired.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, though it’s not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions or back problems, or for pregnant women. Most travelers can participate in the tour.

Can We Book the Tour for a Specific Time of the Day?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a specific time of day. Customers can select their preferred departure time when making the booking, and the tour provider will accommodate their request based on availability.

Recap

The UNESCO Gems of Mtskheta offer a captivating window into Georgia’s remarkable history.

From the awe-inspiring Jvari Church to the grand Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, visitors can enjoy the country’s rich architectural and spiritual heritage.

The ancient cave-town of Uplistsikhe further showcases the region’s enduring significance as a political and religious hub.

This tour provides an exceptional opportunity to discover the remarkable cultural gems that have shaped Georgia’s past and continue to captivate modern-day travelers.