On the slopes of picturesque Adjara, in the municipality of Khelvachauri, at the foot of the Sarpi mountain range, there is an unusual monument - a sculpture and a waterfall dedicated to St. Andrew the First-Called.
This majestic monument represents an important historical moment - the entry into Georgia of St. Andrew the First-Called, a disciple of Jesus Christ. According to legend, it was through these places that he set foot on Georgian soil, bringing Christianity with him. This place is not only evidence of ancient history, but also a symbol of the adoption of a new faith in the lands of Adjara.
Next to the stunning waterfall there is an impressive sign with text in Georgian and English. She reminds us of the significance of this place: “The path through Georgia is the path of enlightenment. The project is dedicated to the arrival of St. Andrew the First-Called in Georgia.” This is an invitation to understand the history and culture of Georgia through the prism of faith.
Legend claims that it was Andrew the First-Called who led the construction of the first Christian church on Georgian soil and ordained the first Georgian priests. His contribution to the spread of Christianity in these lands was invaluable.
Opened in 2008, the monument itself and the waterfall are easily accessible from all sides. Just one kilometer from the Georgian-Turkish border and 12 kilometers from Batumi, this place becomes not only a place of worship and contemplation, but also an excellent excuse for a walk and enjoying the picturesque Georgian nature. You can get here both by public transport and by car, which makes it accessible to everyone who wants to experience the history and beauty of Georgia.
This waterfall is one of many cascades in Adjara. There are more than a dozen of them in the region, all of which are described in detail in the guide to 11 waterfalls of Adjara.
