Patara Kvabebi, which translates as the small caves, is one of the monasteries of the Gareji desert. The complex is cut into the rock, the cells and churches go into the slope, and only a row of openings shows from outside.
The Gareji monastic complex runs along a semi desert ridge for about sixty kilometres and includes more than twenty houses founded between the sixth and the twelfth centuries. Patara Kvabebi is placed in the ninth century, as are the neighbouring Didi Kvabebi. After Soviet power was established, life in most of the cave houses came to a halt.
Do not move objects left by the walls. The site remains part of the everyday life of the area, and that deserves respect.
Tips
- Leave spare time for the climb.
- In summer bring a hat, as there is almost no shade.
- Watch your step in tall grass.
Getting there
- Leave the car at the nearest street and continue on foot.
- Navigate by the coordinates, as there may be no signs on the approach.
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