Kakheti: Georgia in all its Glory

Kakheti, often called the cradle of Georgian winemaking, is an area in which the grape harvest and winemaking play a dominant role. However, Kakheti is not only a wine, but also a rich history and culture that have made this region extremely attractive for tourists.

1. Sighnaghi - the city of love: Sighnaghi, a small fortress town with picturesque streets, has turned into a tourist center of the region. Its fortress, erected in the XVII century, provides amazing views of the Alazan Valley. What makes Sighnaghi unique is that its walls have been preserved almost in their original form. Today there are many cozy cafes, restaurants and hotels in the city, but the peculiarity of this place is the opportunity to register a marriage at any time of the day.
2. Batonis-tsikhe Fortress: The Batonis-tsikhe Fortress, built in the XVII-XVIII centuries, is located in the center of Telavi and was considered one of the main residences of several Kakhetian kings. In 2016, its restoration was completed, restoring the historical appearance of this important monument. Today, an ethnographic museum with a numismatic collection, household items of the XVIII-XVIII centuries and many other interesting exhibits is located inside the fortress.
3. David-Gareji Monastery Complex: The David-Gareji Monastery complex, which is located on the border with Azerbaijan, is considered one of the most outlandish and beautiful places in the world. This complex, carved into the rocks, consists of about 20 monasteries and has exceptional art historical significance. Its history began in the VI century and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
4. Lagodekh Nature Reserve: The Lagodekh Nature Reserve, established in 1912, is the oldest nature reserve in the Caucasus and the largest among the protected areas of Georgia. It is home to almost 2/3 of all plant species common in Georgia, and is included in the UNESCO list of world-class natural monuments.
5. Ikalto Monastery Complex: The Ikalto Monastery complex, located near Telavi, is one of the first monasteries not only in Kakheti, but also in Georgia. Founded in the middle of the VI century by the Assyrian father Zenon of Ikalto, an academy was built here in the XI century. This place is also famous for the fact that the author of the poem "Knight in Tiger Skin" - Shota Rustaveli studied here.
6. Gremi Museum-Reserve: Gremi, built in the middle of the XV century, was a feudal city, which at one time occupied more than 50 hectares. The Gremi Museum offers visitors a unique collection of archaeological finds, including objects from the Bronze Age and water pipes of the XVI century.
7. Lake Ilia: The artificial Lake Ilia, located near Kvareli, offers amazing views and excellent conditions for recreation. It is surrounded by mountains and forests, and around the lake there are cafes and restaurants offering delicious Georgian cuisine.
8. Alaverdi Cathedral: Alaverdi Cathedral, 50 meters high, was built in the XI century and was considered one of the tallest buildings in the world of its time. This cathedral, an outstanding example of medieval Georgian architecture, is located in the center of the Alazani Valley and is included in the UNESCO list.
9. Bodbe Monastery: The Bodbe Monastery, founded in the IV century, is the burial place of Saint Nina, the enlightener of Georgia. This monastery has great spiritual significance and preserves the relics of the saint. Currently, the largest women's monastery in Georgia is located here.
10. Wine tours: Kakheti is one of the best wine destinations in the world. Here you can taste many varieties of Georgian wine and learn about the process of its production. Tours include visits to the winery and tasting of various varieties of wine. Wine tours are especially interesting during the rtveli - the traditional harvest in early autumn.

Visiting Kakheti provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Georgia, enjoy the stunning nature and discover the amazing tastes of local cuisine.