Goderdzi Petrified Forest: what is it?
Mineralized trees at the Goderdzi pass.
Short answer
Goderdzi Petrified Forest is a natural monument in Ajara at 1,600 to 2,100 meters, where about 90 species of heat-loving plants were replaced by opal, chalcedony and quartz. The 365-hectare territory is fully mineralized. It is a monument of international importance and one of nature's rarest wonders.
Why
- The trees were covered in ash from a volcanic eruption between the 10th and 15th centuries.
- The now-subalpine area once had a warm, rainy climate.
- The plants kept their shape and texture, but were replaced by opal, chalcedony and quartz.
Details
The plants include palms, magnolias, ferns, fig trees, oaks and willows. The area lies in the Adigeni and Khulo districts, with Khulo as the nearest city. The Goderdzi pass is also home to petrified palm leaves, camphor trees, laurels and fern species. For plants of Georgia in general, see fruits and plants of Georgia. For the region, see where Ajara is.
Tip
Before you go, ask locals or a tour operator how to get there.
What may differ
Access to the site depends on the season and mountain weather in Ajara.
Common misconception
Goderdzi always had a cold mountain climate, so only conifers grew there.
What actually happens
The now-subalpine area once had a warm, rainy climate, and the petrified plants include palms, magnolias, fig trees and laurels.
People also ask
- What is the petrified forest at Goderdzi?
Sources
Check access, hours and prices before you go.
Related questions
-
Travertines on the Jvari (Cross) Pass: what are they?
The Jvari Pass travertines are a natural monument in Kazbegi Municipality, in the Bidara River valley next to the Kobi-Gudauri road, at 2,197 meters above sea level.
-
Goderdzi Alpine Botanical Garden: what is there?
Goderdzi Alpine Botanical Garden in Khulo municipality, Ajara, lies at 1,960 meters, covers almost 10 hectares and has 15 sections.
-
Mount Laila in Svaneti: what is known about it?
Laila (Lahili) is a mountain in Svaneti, 4,009 meters above sea level, the highest point of the Svaneti Range and the source of the Lailchala River.
-
Arkhoti Valley: where is it and how do you get there?
Arkhoti Valley lies in Khevsureti (Mtskheta-Mtianeti region) along the Arkhotitskali River (Asa), and it can be reached only by off-road vehicle, on horseback or on foot.