Places in Shida Kartli

Shida kartli is located in the eastern part of Georgia. It includes the following towns: Gori, Tskhinvali, Kaspi, Kareli, Java and Khashuri. Shida Kartli contains some of the most interesting and attractive places in Georgia.

Uplistsikhe – is an ancient rock or cave town in Shida Kartli near Gori. It is thought to be the earliest urban settlement in Georgia between the early iron to middle ages. It had been a place of defence against the Muslim and Mongolian invaders over the years. There is a basilica church at the top of the complex. It was built between the 9th-10th centuries. The Uplistsikhe cave complex has been on the tentative list for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage program since 2007. 

Qvatakhevi – a medieval monastery in Shida Kartli dates back to the 12/13th century. It used to be a literary center where ancient manuscripts were copied. Legend has it that a remnant of St.Mary’s clothes was discovered in the monastery under the church.The natural landscape surrounding the monastery is wonderful especially in autumn. 

Shio-Mgvime Monastery – is a monastic complex near Mtskehta. It is thought that the monastery was built in around the 6th century by the Assyrian Father St. Shio. Cultural and religious activities were undertaken by over 2000 monks in the past. St. Shio spent his last days in one of the darkest caves in the complex. According to his wishes, he was buried within the complex.

Rkoni – is monastery complex in Kaspi. The complex comprises of the St.Mary’s, the Baptist and Karibche monasteries. The construction of the complex started in the 7th century. There is the Rkoni bridge over the Tedzami river which is part of the complex. The surrounding area is breathtaking in autumn. Near the complex, tourists can visit the Rkoni fortress dating back to the 18th century. It is built on a mountain which is quite hard to climb. The fortress includes a church, a tower, the ruins of a 3-floor palace and is surrounded by battlements.