Telavi and the way to Azerbaijan

If you’re heading towards Azerbaijan, then there are several places to visit on the way to the border. The first is the city of Telavi.  Telavi is unusual because it has four citadels, the 17th-century Batonistsikhe, the 9th- / 10th-century Dzveli Galavani, the 16th-century Korchibashishvilebis Tsikhe and the 18th-century Vakhvakhishvilebis. There are still some quaint

Vardzia

Vardzia, a significant site in Georgia, includes the ancient Khertvisi Fortress and the cave monastery of Vardzia. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, Khertvisi Fortress has a rich history, featuring structures from the 10th to 14th centuries and a connection to the Ottoman Empire. Vardzia’s cave monastery, initially established as a stronghold, later became a center of Georgian culture, with interconnected churches, meeting halls, and wine cellars.

Akhaltsikhe

The journey from Borjomi to Akhaltsikhe took me through Borjomi Nature Reserve to Borjomi Spa, featuring the historic Borjomi Mineral Water Park. In Akhaltsikhe, the Rabati Castle and charming town with Armenian heritage left a lasting impression.

Batumi

Batumi, Georgia’s summer capital by the Black Sea, attracts Russian and Turkish visitors. The Botanical Garden offers diverse plant collections, while the city boasts unique landmarks like the Chacha Tower and the Ali and Nino statue.

Bagrati and Gelati

Close to Kutaisi, Georgia, lies the Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati monastery complex, both significant religious sites. The Cathedral, built in 1003 AD, has a rich history and was restored in 2008, while the Gelati monastery boasts colorful interiors and unique imagery.

Kutaisi

Kutaisi, an ancient Georgian capital, thrived between 900-1200 AD. It’s known for its humor, unique khachapuri, Colchis fountain, and historical museum. The city has a modern parliament building and a controversial war memorial.

Mtskheta

Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Kartli and headquarters of the Georgian Orthodox Church, is renowned for its Jvari Monastery and Sveti Tskhoveli Cathedral with rich Christian history and pilgrimage significance.

Tbilisi

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, boasts a diverse cultural scene and architectural mix. The city’s attractions include historic sites, a renowned museum with prehistoric artifacts, and exhibits detailing the Soviet occupation era.

Noravank Monastery to the Georgian border

The journey from Noravank via Selim Pass to Lake Sevan encompasses historical landmarks like the Orbelian caravanserai and Noraduz village’s medieval cemetery. Lake Sevan, renowned for its changing water colors, provides a tranquil setting at The Blue Sevan hotel.

The way to Noravank

Any visit to Armenia has to include a trip to Echmiadzin (or Etchmiadzin), which is the seat of the Armenian Church. This was the place where Gregory the Illuminator saw a beam of light fall to earth in a vision and where he built the first Mother Church of Armenia between 301 – 303. This