Day Trip: Mtskheta

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mtskheta is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. From the 3rd century BCE until the 5th century AD, the city was the capital of the Kingdom of Iberia. Georgia’s conversion to Christianity took place here in 337 AD, and the Orthodox churches built are considered among the finest in the country. Mtskheta is located where the Kura and Aragvi rivers converge, about twelve miles northwest of Tbilisi. At certain times of the year, visitors can see the distinct colors created by the colliding waters. Find the sites to see in Mtskheta below.

Jvari Monastery of the Holy Cross The hilltop at the 6th-century Jvari Monastery offers a sprawling view of Mtskheta and the confluence of the Kura and Aragvi Rivers. The cross-shaped church at Jvari was built over the spot where Saint Nino erected the first wooden cross in Georgia.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral An 11th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of medieval architecture, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral served as the Eastern Orthodox religious center of Georgia for centuries. It is decorated with ancient frescoes and murals and it is known as the burial site for Christ's mantle, making it a sacred pilgrimage destination.