The most interesting cities in Georgia. Visit the cave fortress city Uplistsikhe.

Uplistsikhe is one of the most ancient cities in the country. High in the rock, more than 4,000 years ago, two hundred caves were carved, connected by tunnels, stairs and corridors.

The multi-layered and multi-level city inside the mountains still remains a mystery to mankind. Some secrets of the construction and purpose of the fortress city have not been fully solved. One thing remains unchanged – for more than two thousand years Uplistsikhe was one of the most densely populated and significant settlements in Georgia and was considered the main place of worship in the country.

The Kvernakh ridge extends on the left bank of the Kura along the valley of the Sakasheti River (from the west) to the Aragvi River (from the east). The length of the ridge is approximately 70 km, the height of the highest peak of the ridge – Zegard- reaches 1,114 m.

Part of the Kvernakh rocky pillars are located on the left side of the Kura River, on the Ashurian field, in the so-called "Tetrahevi desert". They are fenced by the overhanging southern slope of the Kvernakh ridge. There are many artificial caves, which are carved at high altitude. This indicates that a monastery used to be located in this cozy and separate place. On the southern slope of the ridge, on the front section of the valley of the Kotsakhura and Sakdriani rivers, the ruins of another monastery – Tetrakhevi, the foundation of which is associated with the name of St. Tadeoz Stepantsmindeli – one of the 13 Assyrian fathers, have been preserved.

The rocky relief of the southern slope of the eastern section of Kvernakhi is represented by cliffs and cliffs. There are also many artificial caves. Among them it should be noted Uplistsikhe – the oldest city, administrative and religious center.

Uplistsikhe – the fortress city, which was the residence of the leader of the local tribe, who bore the title of "Godlike". The leader had great power and great influence. Hence the name "Uplistsize" ("fell" - "the Almighty"; "tsikhe" - "fortress"). City Uplistsikhe for many centuries, it has successfully combined strategic, administrative, defensive and even religious functions. The city ceased to exist as a strategic point in the XIII century – during the invasion of the Mongols. In the future, this place served as a shelter for the population from nearby areas during enemy raids.

Currently Uplistsikhe It is an open-air museum.

Not all rooms are accessible to tourists, however, excursions here are always saturated and shrouded in incredible legends and tales. It is necessary to visit here for everyone who wants to get to know the Georgian people, their customs and learn how life has developed since ancient times.

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