#vardzia

[sixteenseveredhands]

Vardzia, a Medieval Cave City in Georgia (South Caucasus), built in 1150-1200 CE: Vardzia was designed to be used as a fortress/monastery; it was accessible only through hidden passageways, and it contained more than 6,000 caves, 15 chapels, 25 wine cellars, an apothecary, a forge, a bakery, farming terraces, and an irrigation system

The monastic caves at Vardzia cover an area of about 500 meters. They are carved into the cliffs along the Erusheti mountains, which are located in Javakheti (a southern province near the borders between Georgia, Turkey, and Armenia).

Vardzia was originally meant to serve as a fortress, particularly in the event of a Mongol Invasion. It was protected by defensive walls, and the cave system itself was largely concealed within the mountain (though much of it is now exposed); it also contained a secret escape tunnel and several dead-end tunnels that were designed to delay/confuse enemy forces. The cave city could only be accessed through a series of hidden passageways that began near the banks of the Mtkvari River (which runs through the valley below the cave complex). Water was supplied through an irrigation system that was connected to the river, providing the inhabitants with both drinking water and agricultural irrigation, as the site contained its own terraced farmland.

The cave complex also functioned as a monastery, with a large collection of manuscripts and relics ultimately being housed at the site.

In its prime, the complex at Vardzia was inhabited by tens of thousands of residents.

Unfortunately, most of the original structures at Vardzia were destroyed by an earthquake that struck the region in 1283 CE, just a century after its construction; the earthquake sheared away the outer layer of the cliffside, exposed many of the caves, and demolished almost two-thirds of the site. The surviving structures represent only a fraction of the cave complex that once existed at Vardzia, with only about 500 caves still intact.

When the earthquake tore through the site in 1283, much of the fortress and many of its defenses were also destroyed, and Vardzia lost most of its military/defensive purposes. Still, it continued to operate as a Georgian Orthodox monastery for several hundred years after that. It narrowly escaped the Mongol Invasions of the 1290s, but it was raided by the Persians during the 16th century; the invading forces burned many of the manuscripts, relics, and other items that were stored within the cave system, leaving permanent scorch marks along the walls of the inner chambers. The site was abandoned shortly thereafter.

Medieval portrait of Queen/King Tamar: this portrait is one of the Medieval frescoes that still decorate the inner chambers of Vardzia; Tamar was the first queen regnant to rule over Georgia, meaning that she possessed the same power/authority as a king and, as a result, some Medieval sources even refer to her as "King Tamar"

Vardzia is often associated with the reign of Queen Tamar the Great, who ruled over the Kingdom of Georgia from 1184 to 1213 CE, during a particularly successful period that is often known as the "Golden Age" of Georgian history. Queen Tamar was also recognized as the Georgian King, with Medieval sources often referring to her as King Tamar. She possessed the powers of a sovereign leader/queen regnant, and was the first female monarch to be given that title in Georgia.

The initial phases of construction at Vardzia began under the command of King George III, but most of the complex was later built at the behest of his daughter, Queen Tamar, who owned several dedicated rooms at Vardzia and frequently visited the cave city. Due to her relationship with the cave complex at Vardzia, Queen Tamar is sometimes also referred to as the "Mountain Queen."

Despite the damage that the site has sustained throughout its history, many of the caves, tunnels, frescoes, and other structures have survived. The site currently functions as a monastery once more, with Georgian monks living in various chambers throughout the cave system.

I visited Vardzia back in 2011, during my first trip to Georgia. It's an incredible site, though some of the tunnels are very narrow, very dark, and very steep, which can get a bit claustrophobic.

Sources & More Info:

Atlas Obscura: Vardzia Cave Monastery

CNN: Exploring Vardzia, Georgia's Mysterious Rock-Hewed Cave City

Lonely Planet: Vardzia

Globonaut: 5 Facts about Vardzia, Georgia's Hidden Cave City

Wander Lush: Vardzia Cave Monastery (complete visitor's guide)

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[julianworker]

Vardzia

Vardzia is one of Georgia’s most significant sites.  First though, if you’re coming from the Akhaltsikhe direction, stop at Khertvisi Fortress, dramatically sited on a cliff above the confluence of the Paravani and Mtkvari Rivers. It’s one of the oldest fortresses in Georgia, dating back to the 2nd Century BC, at least according to the 11th century Georgian chronicler Leonti Mroveli. He argued��

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#georgia #travel #vardzia

[jameelahmaury]

Vardzia Monastery, Georgia - February 2022

#12th century #vardzia monastery #georgia #a favorite #tbilisi #medieval

[fun-geography-facts]

Georgia/Sakartvelo 🇬🇪

In a beautifully scenic valley in Georgia, you may stumble across Vardzia - a 6000 room cave city and monastery complex. Still occupied by five dedicated Christian monks, the enormous settlement has likely been inhabited since at least the 1100s. And that’s not even the oldest cave city this little Caucasian country has to offer.

Vardzia is particularly impressive though, boasting 15 churches and several iconic cave paintings, it illuminates the ancient history of the Caucasus.

In case you’re wondering, the remaining monks still ring the bells every morning 🔔

#architecture #Georgia #sakartvelo #caucasus #Asia #it’s more like Eurasia but anyway #cave cities #random fact

[simplisticmotherhood]

The ancient cave monastery of Vardzia in southern Georgia

#Unesco #travel #ancient #Tourism #rock

[dato-georgia-caucasus]

Vardzia, Aspindza, Georgia

#სამცხე

[dyadyavasya]

Горная дорога . #georgia #georgiatravel #landscape #landscapephotography #discoverearth #discovernature #natgeo #natgeoru #russiatravel #natgeotravel #natgeotravel_ru #olympus #olympus_ru #road #roadtrip #moodygrams . #проект_365_фото #проект365_dyadyavasya 235/365 (at Vardzia, Aspindzis Raioni, Georgia) https://www.instagram.com/p/ChsgKV8LfTG/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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[richaldis]

Watch "VAN LIFE GEORGIA. - HIDDEN UNDERGROUND CITY VARDZIA CAVES" on YouTube

#Youtube

[ayush021]

Explore Georgia's Charm: The Best Georgia Tours for Unforgettable Adventures

Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia is a land of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the majestic peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to the charming streets of Tbilisi, Georgia offers a plethora of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. Embarking on one of the best Georgia tours promises to unveil the hidden gems and captivating beauty of this enchanting country.

Tbilisi City Tour: Begin your journey in the heart of Georgia with a Tbilisi city tour. Explore the historic Old Town, where cobblestone streets wind past colorful balconied houses and ancient churches. Discover the Narikala Fortress, offering panoramic views of the cityscape below. Dive into the bustling flea market at Dry Bridge Market, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. Indulge in Georgian cuisine at traditional restaurants and sample local wines at quaint wine bars scattered throughout the city.

Kazbegi and the Caucasus Mountains: Venture northward to Kazbegi, a picturesque region nestled in the Caucasus Mountains. Embark on a thrilling jeep tour through rugged terrain, passing by cascading waterfalls and verdant valleys. Hike to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, perched atop a hill with Mount Kazbek as its backdrop. Experience Georgian hospitality firsthand with a homestay in a traditional mountain village, where you'll savor homemade meals and immerse yourself in local customs.

Wine Tasting in Kakheti: No visit to Georgia is complete without exploring Kakheti, the country's premier wine region. Join a wine tour through vineyards dotted with ancient qvevri (clay vessels used for winemaking) and picturesque villages. Visit family-owned wineries to taste a diverse array of wines, from robust reds to aromatic whites and amber-colored qvevri wines. Learn about traditional winemaking techniques passed down through generations and toast to newfound friendships with locals.

Vardzia Cave Monastery: Journey to the southern region of Georgia to discover the fascinating Vardzia Cave Monastery. Carved into the cliffsides of the Erusheti Mountain, this sprawling complex dates back to the 12th century. Explore the labyrinthine tunnels, chapels, and dwellings carved into the rock, offering insight into Georgia's medieval history and religious heritage. Marvel at the stunning frescoes adorning the cave walls and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclusion:

Embarking on the best Georgia tours unveils a tapestry of experiences that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. Whether you're wandering through the charming streets of Tbilisi, trekking in the Caucasus Mountains, indulging in wine tasting in Kakheti, or exploring ancient cave monasteries, Georgia captivates with its beauty, history, and hospitality. Prepare to be enchanted by the allure of this hidden gem in the Caucasus, where every corner reveals a new adventure waiting to be discovered.

Visit for more information: Travejar

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[nourahhseo]

Discovering Georgia's Rich Cultural Heritage

Georgia is a country steeped in history and culture, with a rich heritage that dates back thousands of years. From its ancient churches and monasteries to its vibrant traditional music and dance, Georgia offers a glimpse into a world that is both ancient and modern, for more السياحة العلاجية في جورجيا.

One of Georgia's most iconic landmarks is the ancient cave city of Vardzia, which dates back to the 12th century. Carved into the side of a cliff, this sprawling cave complex is a testament to Georgia's rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore the caves, marvel at the ancient frescoes, and learn about the history of this fascinating site.

Discover أفضل الاماكن السياحية في جورجيا.

Another must-visit destination in Georgia is the historic town of Mtskheta, which was once the capital of the Kingdom of Iberia. Here, visitors can explore ancient churches and monasteries, including the UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, which is considered one of the holiest sites in Georgia.

Georgia is also known for its vibrant traditional music and dance, which is an integral part of the country's cultural heritage. Visitors to Georgia can experience traditional Georgian music and dance performances, which are often accompanied by traditional instruments such as the panduri (a type of lute) and the doli (a drum).

In conclusion, Georgia's rich cultural heritage at السياحة في جورجيا is a testament to its long and storied history. From its ancient landmarks to its vibrant cultural traditions, Georgia offers a fascinating glimpse into a world that is both ancient and modern.

[theworldinside1966]

El Monasterio Cueva de Vardzia tiene más de 500 habitaciones en 19 niveles

[julianworker]

Vardzia

Vardzia is one of Georgia’s most significant sites.  First though, if you’re coming from the Akhaltsikhe direction, stop at Khertvisi Fortress, dramatically sited on a cliff above the confluence of the Paravani and Mtkvari Rivers. It’s one of the oldest fortresses in Georgia, dating back to the 2nd Century BC, at least according to the 11th century Georgian chronicler Leonti Mroveli. He argued…

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[holiday-factory]

Affordable Adventure: Flydubai's Budget-Friendly Tickets to Georgia

Flydubai offers a tempting option for those looking for an exciting and reasonably priced vacation with their Cheap Tickets To Georgia. Georgia's captivating scenery, rich cultural legacy, and friendly people make it a must-visit location. This post will discuss the attractions of Georgia and how Flydubai's affordable tickets may make your ideal trip a reality.

Seeing Georgia on a Tight Budget:

Georgia is a hidden treasure that is just waiting to be found. It is located between Europe and Asia. The nation provides various experiences, from the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains to the energetic city life in Tbilisi. It has launched affordable tickets to Georgia so that everyone may experience this journey and visit this enchanted location without going over budget.

Cheap Tickets for Flydubai:

Flydubai has established a stand for offering reasonably priced travel solutions without sacrificing excellence. You may go to Georgia for less with Flydubai's affordable tickets and experience amazing scenery, interesting historical places, and mouthwatering food. It offers affordable solutions for all travelers, including singles, couples looking for a romantic getaway, and families planning an unforgettable trip.

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The diversity of Georgia is what makes it so appealing; from the wine regions of Kakheti to the UNESCO World Heritage sites like the ancient city of Mtskheta, there is something for every type of tourist. Flydubai offers affordable tickets that allow you to visit the captivating Vardzia Cave Monastery, meander through the quaint alleyways of Sighnaghi, or unwind on Batumi's Black Sea beaches.

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Choosing Flydubai's Cheap Tickets To Georgia offers the benefit of participating in various inexpensive activities. Without worrying about going over budget, enjoy traditional Georgian food at reasonably priced restaurants, browse the lively local markets, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Flydubai ensures that your trip to Georgia will be both inexpensive and unforgettable.

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Georgia is renowned for its off-the-beaten-path hidden jewels. It offers affordable tickets to less-traveled destinations like the stunning Svaneti with its historic watchtowers and the unspoiled Lagodekhi National Park. Finding these hidden treasures gives your inexpensive trip an air of exclusivity.

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[twiregret]

The ancient cave monastery of Vardzia in southern Georgia

#Unesco #travel #ancient #Tourism #rock

[magma-krystal]

The ancient cave monastery of Vardzia in southern Georgia

#Unesco #travel #ancient #Tourism #rock

[dato-georgia-caucasus]

Vardzia, Aspindza, Georgia

#სამცხე