The complex of Vani Caves in Samtskhe-Javakheti on the right bank of the river Mtkvari - a sightseeing site of the 8th century in Georgia.
The Van caves, located in Samtskhe-Javakheti, are one of the sights of Georgia that requires the unconditional attention of tourists. The caves of Vakhani are less popular than the same Uplistsikhe. Despite this, we can safely say that the complex has its own history
Visited the historical sights of Georgia⬇️
- Cave Complex
- History
- Description
- So what can you see in Vanis-Kwabeby?
If you are interested in such a topic as the most beautiful places in Georgia, then this article is for you.
The sights of Georgia amaze with their beauty, unique culture and history, today we will talk about one of them, namely, the Vanis-Kvabebi cave complex.
Cave Complex
Vanis-Kvabebi is a complex of caves of Vani (Vakhani), which is located in Samtskhe–Javakheti, in Aspindz municipality, on the right bank of the Mtkvari River in Georgia.
Vanis-Kvabebi is located near the popular village of Vardzia, but, unfortunately, does not enjoy such great popularity despite the fact that it has beautiful views and history. Walking through the cave complex, you can feel the spirit of antiquity and get unforgettable emotions that will not leave any tourist indifferent.
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History
The appearance of this cave complex dates back to about the 8th century AD. Its buildings were significantly expanded in the 9th-11th centuries. In 1089, a strong earthquake occurred on the territory of Vanis-Kvabebi, during which the central part of the cave city, including the church of St. George, was destroyed. In 1186-1191, the patron saint of the monastery, Ichkit Gurgenidze, restored the cathedral. After some time, Anton Chkondidiy erected a protective fortress wall, part of which has survived to our time, it happened around 1204. Between 1265-1283, the main gate of St. George's Church, the bell tower and the church hall were built.
But in 1283 there was an earthquake again, because of which the caves of Vanya collapsed again. During the 14th and 16th centuries, monastic life was renewed again. Later, a convent was founded in the complex, the most severe punishment of which is dropping from a high cliff. At the moment, the place is a men's monastery.
Description
Vanis-Kvabebi has the shape of an amphitheater, with a rather steep slope. The caves can also be divided into 3 complexes.
- On the left side there are the monks' dwellings, a new temple and buildings necessary for living in the mountains.
- The right part is abandoned, it is quite difficult to get into its territory, but there are unique galleries cut down in a special tufobreccia material.
- In the central part of Vanis-Kvabebi is considered the most interesting and consists of several tiers of caves, which are crowned by a small chapel. On the lower floors you can see rooms and ruins of rooms where wine used to be stored.
So what can you see in Vanis-Kwabeby?
During the tour of Vanis-Kvabebi, pay attention to such objects as:
- The Church of St. George – it is notable for the fact that the arch of the altar and the dome were carved from rocks. The temple reaches 12 m in height and is decorated with slabs with bas-reliefs. Human bones were found in one of the rooms, scientists suggest that there was a crypt here.
- The church, located on the upper level – it was built of rubble and brick in the 15th century, so it has an original architecture.
In conclusion, I would like to note that the Vanis-Kvabebi cave complex is rich in fascinating views and a large number of caves, it is perfect for lovers of quiet and deserted places and attractions not visited by crowds of tourists.
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