Ancient Cities of Georgia - A List of the Oldest Cities

Georgia — an amazing country that preserves a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, on the border between East and West, which is reflected in its unique architecture, which combines different styles and influences. Georgia is the birthplace of ancient civilizations that have existed on this land since ancient times.

On its territory, you can find many historical cities that testify to the glorious past of this nation. Historical cities of Georgia — these are not only architectural monuments, but also living museums that tell about the traditions, customs, religion and art of the Georgian people. They are also places where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, the hospitality of locals and delicious national cuisine. In this article, we will tell you about the 12 most famous historical cities of Georgia, their architecture and historical significance.

The history of Georgia is more than three thousand years old. On its territory there were different states and cultures that left their mark on history and architecture. Among them, the following can be distinguished:

• Colchis is an ancient state on the eastern coast of the Black Sea, which existed from the 13th century BC to the 1st century AD. Colchis was famous as the place where the Greek hero Jason arrived in search of the Golden Fleece. Colchian culture was distinguished by a high level of development of metallurgy, agriculture, trade and art. Colchian cities such as Phasis, Dioscurias, Aia were important trade and cultural centers. Iberia is an ancient state in eastern Georgia, which existed from the 4th century BC to the 5th century AD. Iberia was one of the first states to adopt Christianity in the 4th century. Iberian culture reflected the influence of different civilizations, such as the Persians, Greeks, Romans, Armenians, Parthians. Iberian cities such as Mtskheta, Armazi, Uplistsikhe were political, religious and cultural centers.
• Caucasian Albania is an ancient state in northeastern Georgia that existed from the 4th century BC to the 8th century AD. Caucasian Albania was a multinational state inhabited by different peoples, such as Albanians, Udis, Agvans, Herts, Leges and others. Caucasian Albania was influenced by neighboring states such as Iberia, Armenia, Persia, Rome, Byzantium. Caucasian Albania also adopted Christianity in the 4th century. Caucasian Albanian cities such as Kabala, Chola, Partau were important trading and defensive fortifications.
• Kartli is a medieval state in eastern Georgia that existed from the 4th century to the 18th century. Kartli was the continuer of the Iberian traditions and was one of the main centers of Georgian history and culture. Kartli was repeatedly invaded and conquered by the Arabs, Seljuks, Mongols, Timurids, Turks, Persians and others. Kartli cities such as Tbilisi, Uplistsikhe, Gori, Sighnaghi were centers of politics, religion, education and art.
• Kakheti is a medieval state in eastern Georgia that existed from the 8th century to the 19th century. Kakheti was known as a land of winemakers and poets. Kakheti also faced aggression from neighboring states, especially the Persians and Turks. Kakheti cities such as Telavi, Sighnaghi, Gremi, Alazani were beautiful and cozy places where culture and trade flourished.
• Imereti is a medieval state in western Georgia that existed from the 13th century to the 19th century. Imereti was one of the most prosperous and powerful states of Georgia, which played an important role in the unification of the Georgian people. Imereti also suffered from wars and invasions by the Mongols, Turks, Persians, Russians and others. Imereti cities such as Kutaisi, Baghdati, Chiatura, Samtredia were centers of culture, science, literature and art.
  

In this section, we will tell you about 12 most famous historical cities of Georgia that are worth visiting and seeing with your own eyes. We have selected these cities based on the following criteria: their historical significance, architectural beauty, cultural heritage and tourist attractiveness.

Here is our list:

Batumi— a city in western Georgia, which was founded in the 4th century BC. Batumi is located on the Black Sea coast, 380 kilometers from Tbilisi. This city is a major seaport and resort. It combines ancient and modern architectural styles. Batumi is a place where you can enjoy the sea air, beaches, parks and entertainment.

There are many attractions to see in Batumi, such as: Piazza — a square that was built in the Italian style and decorated with fountains and sculptures; Alphabet Tower — a tower that was built in the form of a spiral of 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet; Botanical Garden — a garden that was founded in the 19th century and contains more than 2,000 species of plants; Statue of Medea — a statue that symbolizes Georgia's connection with ancient Greek mythology.

Tbilisi — the capital of Georgia, which was founded in the 5th century. Tbilisi is located in the valley of the river Chickens, on the hillsides. Tbilisi is a city of contrasts, where ancient streets and modern buildings, eastern bazaars and western boutiques, orthodox churches and mosques coexist. Tbilisi is a city that lives to the rhythm of music, art and wine. In Tbilisi, you can visit many attractions, such as:Narikala a fortress that dominates the city; Metekhi — the church where, according to legend, King Vakhtang Gorgasali prayed; Sioni is the cathedral where the vineyard of St. Nino is kept; Anchiskhati is the oldest church in Tbilisi; Abanotubani — the area where the sulfur baths are located; Rustaveli— the main avenue where theatres, museums and monuments are located.

Sighnaghi — a city in eastern Georgia, founded in the 18th century. Sighnaghi is located on a hill, 113 kilometers from Tbilisi. It is called the city of love, as you can get married here 24 hours a day and without an appointment. Sighnaghi is also a city that amazes with its beauty and charm. Sighnaghi is surrounded by walls that were built in the 18th century to protect against enemies. Here you can enjoy the view of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains, as well as visit many interesting places, such as: Bodbe — the monastery where Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia, is buried; Pirosmani Museum— a museum where you can see the works of the famous Georgian artist; St. Stephen's Church - a church that was built in the 18th century and decorated with frescoes.

Mtskheta — the oldest city in Georgia, which was the capital of Iberia and Kartli. Mtskheta is located at the confluence of two rivers - the Kura and Aragvi, 20 kilometers from Tbilisi. It is one of the sacred places for Georgians, as Christianity was adopted here in the 4th century. Here you can see many temples and monasteries, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Among them: Svetitskhoveli - the cathedral where the mantle of Jesus Christ is kept;Jvari — a church that towers over the city and offers stunning views; Samtavro, a monastery where the first Christian rulers of Georgia are buried.

Uplistsikhe is an ancient cave town that was carved into the rock in the 1st millennium BC. Uplistsikhe is located on the bank of the Mtkvari River, 10 kilometers from Burn. Uplistsikhe was one of the most important political, religious and cultural centres of Iberia and Kartli. Uplistsikhe contains about 150 caves that served as dwellings, temples, warehouses, theatres and prisons. Uplistsikhe was also the place where Apostle Andrew the First-Called preached and where King Vakhtang Gorgasali was captured.

Burn a city in eastern Georgia that was founded in the 6th century. It is located in the Mtkvari River Valley, 80 kilometers from Tbilisi, and it is famous for its history and culture. Gori is the birthplace of one of the most famous and controversial leaders of the 20th century – Joseph Stalin. Here you can visit the Stalin Museum, which is located in his birthplace, as well as his armored train and bunker. Gori is also famous for its remarkable buildings, such as: Goristsikhe – a fortress that was built in the 13th century; St. George – a cathedral that was built in the 19th century; Ateni Sioni – a church that was built in the 7th century.

Telavi — a city in eastern Georgia that was founded in the 17th century. Telavi is located in the center of the Alazani Valley, 160 kilometers from Tbilisi. This city is the capital of Kakheti and the center of winemaking. This is a city that has a rich history and culture. Telavi was the place where one of the most famous Georgian kings ruled - Erekle II, who united Georgia in the 18th century. Here you can see many attractions, such as:Batonis-Tsikhe —the palace of Erekle II, which was built in the 18th century and has retained its original appearance; Alexandre Chavchavadze - a museum that was the home of the famous Georgian poet and politician; Ikalto - a monastery where the first academy in Georgia was located, where the great Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli.

Kutaisi — a city in western Georgia that was founded in the 6th century BC. Kutaisi is located on the banks of the Rioni River, 221 kilometers from Tbilisi. It is a city that was the capital of Colchis, Imereti and Georgia at different periods of history. Kutaisi has magnificent architecture and culture. It is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites:Bagrati — Cathedral, which was built in the 10th century and symbolizes the unity of the Georgian people; Gelati - a monastery, which was built in the 12th century and was a center of science, philosophy and art. Kutaisi is also known for its parks, bridges, fountains and caves.

Chiatura— a city in western Georgia, which was founded in the 19th century. Chiatura is located in the gorge of the Kvirila River, 67 kilometers from Kutaisi. It is a city that is the center of the mining industry. Chiatura is also a city that has a unique transport system. This is the place where you can try the world's longest cable car, which connects different parts of the city. It is also famous for its historical and cultural monuments, such as: Sakdrisi - the oldest gold mine in the world, which dates back to the 3rd millennium BC; St. John's Church - a church that was built in the 10th century and is decorated with carvings and frescoes.

Ushguli — an ancient city in northwestern Georgia, which was founded in the 1st millennium AD. It is located at an altitude of 2200 meters above sea level, 210 kilometers from Kutaisi. This is a city that is the highest mountain settlement in Europe. It preserves the traditions and culture of the Svans — an ancient people who live in Svaneti. This is a place where you can see the unique Svan towers, which were built in the 9th-12th centuries to protect against enemies. It is also known for its beautiful view of Mt. Shkhara — the highest mountain in Georgia.

Stepantsminda — a city in northern Georgia, which was founded in the 18th century and is located in the valley of the Terek River, 157 kilometers from Tbilisi. It is a city that is the center of the region Heavy and which has a magnificent view of Mount Kazbek, one of the most beautiful mountains in Georgia. This is a place where you can visit many historical and cultural monuments, such as: Gergeti - a church that was built in the 14th century on the slope of Mount Kazbek and is a symbol of Georgia; Sno - a fortress that was built in the 16th century and served as a border between Georgia and Russia; Alexander Kazbegi Museum - a museum that was the home of the famous Georgian writer and poet.

Mestia — a city in northwestern Georgia, which was founded in the 10th century. Mestia is located in the Enguri River valley, 128 kilometers from Kutaisi. Mestia is a city that is the capital of Svaneti and the center of ski tourism. Mestia is also a city that has a rich history and culture. Mestia is a place where you can see many Svan towers, which were built in the 9th-13th centuries to protect against enemies. Mestia is also famous for its museum, where you can learn about the life and traditions of the Svans, as well as see a collection of ancient manuscripts and icons.

Historical cities of Georgia not only captivate with their beauty, but also reflect Georgian history and culture. They testify to the development and diversity of Georgian civilization, which dates back to ancient times. They also show the influence of different peoples and cultures with which Georgia has had contact and cooperation. Traces of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Persian, Arabic, Turkish, Russian and other cultures can be seen in these cities. Georgian cities are also the source of Georgian national identity and pride. Many outstanding Georgian rulers, poets, writers, artists, scientists and saints were born and lived in these cities. Important events and battles that determined the fate of Georgia and its people also took place in these cities. They are living monuments of the Georgian spirit and traditions that are passed down from generation to generation.

Not only do they have historical significance, but they also play an important role in the modern life of the country. They are places of residence, work, study and recreation for many Georgians. They are also places of attraction for many tourists who come to Georgia to learn about its history, culture, nature and cuisine. The historic cities of Georgia are also subject to protection and preservation, as they are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The Georgian government and local authorities make efforts to protect and restore the historic cities, as well as to develop their infrastructure and tourism potential. The country also receives support and assistance from international organizations such as UNESCO, the European Union, the Council of Europe and others.

In this article, we told you about 12 of the most famous historical cities in Georgia, their architecture and historical significance. We showed how these cities reflect Georgian history and culture, as well as how they are used and preserved today. We hope that this article has interested you and inspired you to learn more about this amazing country. Georgia is a country, which has much to be proud of and enjoy. It is waiting for you to show you its historical cities and much more.