Famous Georgian rock town
One of the largest Georgian monuments is the rock town of Vardzia, which can be found in the south of the country near the border with Turkey. The starting point for this trip may be the city of Achalciche (ახალციხე), which is easily accessible from Tbilisi. Vardzia is carved into a massive rock wall directly above the river. The journey through the valley and the canyon of the river Kura is worth it.
Road through the valley of the river Kura
From Achalciche you can get to Vardzie either by complicated train or simply by shared taxi. If you are at least two or more, then it is definitely worth taking a taxi, because you can stop at the photo and you are more flexible at all. The ride through the Kura river valley is scenic. The landscape becomes more and more interesting, the closer you get to Vardzia
Khertvisi Castle
Vardzia is not the only attraction on this trip. Khertvisi Castle above the confluence of the Kura and Paravani rivers is also beautiful.
Rock cliffs above the river
If you had more time to explore the surrounding landscape, you would certainly find far more rock dwellings, hollowed-out massifs near the river there is much more
Kura river canyon
The most interesting stop is the place where the river created a beautiful canyon. In addition, there is an interesting Tmongvi ruin on the rock massif nearby. It would also be worth a visit and a hike that leads from there to the plateau, to a height of almost two thousand meters above sea level to the secret church of Zeda Tmongvi. But you would have to extend this trip by a day and sleep somewhere.
Valley in front of Vardzia
After crossing the canyon, the valley opens and your destination is finally visible on the horizon
Vardzia general view
The whole rock town is built high above the river. However, its magnificence was greatly damaged by the earthquake in the thirteenth century.
Ascent to Vardzia
You will cross the large bridge to the other side of the river and from the parking lot you will finally set out to explore this attraction. Usually you will meet only a minimum of other visitors.
Valley view
The path climbs along a nice paved sidewalk, during which you can enjoy views of the valley. Some 10 kilometers further down the valley is the Turkish border.
Impressive rock town
Vardzia had seven floors in both of its greatest glory, and supposedly up to 3,000 rock flats. Unfortunately, most of it was destroyed by an earthquake. But it still looks impressive.
Leaning apartment or small church
Some of the rooms have been nicely preserved to this day and you will find similarities with those in Cappadocia or the Bohemian Paradise.
Frescoes
Historically, the most valuable are the several hundred year old frescoes in the local churches
Exploration of the rock town of Vardzia
Probably the most fun on the whole trip is exploring the dark corridors and stairs inside the rock city
The most beautiful view of the rock town
The most beautiful view of Vardzia is from the best preserved church and it is really worth it.
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