Sources of Borjomi and the Legends of Medieval Georgia (from Tbilisi)

Travel route - Borjomi, Vardzia, Akhaltsikhe (Rabat fortress)

Borjomi

Borjomi is a small town in the mountains. There are not many attractions built by human hands, but it has become the hallmark of Georgia thanks to amazing mineral water. About its healing properties was known in ancient times. During the excavations near the Borzhomi sources, stone baths were found. However, later these places were abandoned and reopened during the reign of the Russian Emperor. The unique power of water and natural beauty attracted the aristocracy here. In the gorge near natural sources quickly grew a small town. To rest in Borjomi, to improve their health and breathe the purest mountain air, members of the imperial house also came. Especially for the August family in the town built a residence.

Vardzia

Not far from Borjomi in the Kura valley is located one of the most ancient Georgian monasteries Vardzia. This monastery complex, temples, residential and farm buildings carved into the rock. Vardzia is a whole cave city hidden from prying eyes in the thick of soft tuff. Once a monastery-fortress served as a frontier station. Up to 50 thousand soldiers were quartered within its walls. In 1283 a powerful earthquake occurred in these places, which caused irreparable damage to the complex. Part of the rock collapsed in Kourou. The underground city lost its strategic importance, however, to this day it has remained a unique architectural monument. Today Vardzia is a functioning monastery.

Akhaltsikhe (Rabat fortress)

The city of Akhaltsikhe was just as important as Vardzia. A new huge fortress at that time was supposed to protect the southern lands and the whole country from the invasion of the Turks, who constantly attacked the Georgian lands. For several centuries it was possible to restrain enemies. But in 1578 the Ottoman troops still occupied Akhaltsikhe and remained here for a long time. Today, the Akhaltsikh fortress of Rabat keeps a trace of the presence of both cultures. This is one of the most beautiful medieval fortifications, located on seven hectares. You will see the Turkish baths and the tomb of the pasha-vicar. The mosque is adjacent to the synagogue and Christian churches of Armenians and Georgians. The newly rebuilt Rabat has become a symbol of a new Georgia, a country where representatives of many religions and nationalities live, and in which they welcome everyone who came in peace.

Children under 6 travel free.

For children from 6 to 12 years old, a 50% discount is offered.