Mtskheta – ancient capital of east Georgia, from IV century BC. After moving political center to Tbilisi, Mtskheta remained as spiritual center of the country. Once more it became political center – in X – IX centuries, while Tbilisi was still occupied by Arabs and known as Tbilisi emirate. Currently it is little town 15 km from Tbilisi. Here are B.Cl and A.C architectural monuments, which are recognized by UNESCO as world heritage sites. Trip covers the most important monuments in Mtskheta.

Jvari monastery built in VI century on top of hill, from where is perfect view on town Mtskheta and surroundings.

Svetitskhoveli cathedral XI century – the most respected holy place in Georgia, also very important architectural monument of Georgia. Also is burial place of Georgian kings and their offspring till modern time.

Samtavro monastery– built in XI century. Here are graves of first christian king and queen of Georgia.

Shio mgvime monastery – located 15 km from Mtskheta. According to a historic tradition, the first monastic community at this place was founded by the 6th-century monk Shio, one of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers who came to Georgia as Christian missionaries. St. Shio is said to have spent his last years as a hermit in a deep cave near Mtskheta subsequently named Shiomghvime (“the Cave of Shio”) after him. Shio-Mgvime quickly turned into the largest monastic community in Georgia and by the end of the 6th century it was populated by as many as 2,000 monks. According the history this monastery has been destroyed by enemies several times, but it is still functional and attracts many pilgrims and tourists.