A city where Europe meets Asia
Tbilisi is the capital of independent Georgia since April 9, 1991. However, its roots go back to the 5th century. The historic Silk Road also led here. We will find contrasting architectural styles, crowded and often chaotic streets, modern buildings, old suburbs, parks and markets. The river Kura flows through the city, which has over 1.3 million inhabitants.
Outskirts
In a small hotel on the outskirts of Tbilisi towards the airport, we are greeted by the rest of a wolf. We know that the impression of the city would not be complete if we did not visit its outskirts, so we start a tour right there: old houses, courtyards and quite wild vines everywhere.
Markets
Very soon we discover small shops and markets where locals go shopping. Everything looks very tempting and we soon find that it tastes good.
Sameba
We climb Elia Hill east of the Kura River. There is a grandiose Sameba Cathedral, capable of accommodating up to 15,000 people. The whole complex includes the residence of the patriarch, the cathedral, the school of theology and nine chapels (5 of which are underground). The cathedral was built between 1995 and 2004.
Centre of the city
After a tour of the cathedral, we descend to the city center, cross the river Kura and pass modern and old to historical buildings.
Modern architecture
The Peace Bridge is for pedestrians only. This glass and steel structure is illuminated at night by 30,000 LEDs. The bridge is set to symbolize Georgia's „bright future“ and was completed in 2010. Another example of modern architecture is the two tubes of the concert hall, over which the Presidential Palace overlooks. We cross the Kura River again and enter Rike Park, from where the cable car leads to a great view of the whole city.
Sololaki ridge
From the upper station of the cable car it is possible to go to the old fortress, or visit the aluminum statue of Mother Georgia. She stares at her beloved homeland, in one hand she has wine for friends, in the other she holds a sword against enemies. The statue was created in 1958.
Sololaki ridge
On the other side of the ridge is a nice view of the old town, the fortress and especially the botanical garden, founded in 1625. The western part of the garden ends with a modern private residence owned by Bidzina Ivanishvili, former Prime Minister of Georgia.
Abanotubani district
We descend to the gorge Tsavkisis – Tskali, which is part of the botanical garden and there is a nice waterfall. From here it is just a short walk to an interesting neighborhood, historically known for its sulfur springs. There are currently five sulfur baths.
Mosque
There is also a local mosque in the same district. It dates from 1895 and the Shiites and Sunnis pray in it.
Wine shops
We continue with a tour of the old town. Georgia is considered the cradle of vines and wine. Even today, in addition to modern methods, wine is also prepared in clay pots kvevri, buried in the ground. No wonder we find a large selection of local wines …… by the way, very nice.
Alleys
The historic center of Tbilisi is full of contrasts and different people.
Rustaveli Street
This street is a kind of backbone road of the capital. Along it there are a number of important buildings (opera, theater, museum, parliament). Nearby is a large park, in which we find a flea market: an amazing spectacle and excursions to the history of analog photography.
Flea market
The magic of the local flea market is mainly typical local things and artifacts: for example, old samovars, or portraits of a notorious Georgian native.
Dance
We end the tour of the capital in Georgian style. The locals are known for their love to sing and also dance very well. Is it true.
Articles nearby
Giga List: The most beautiful trips in Georgia
Georgia, as a mountainous Caucasian country, offers a number of beautiful treks and tours. But also beautiful trips to church… continue reading