Mtskheta is one of oldest cities of Georgia near Tbilisi. Mtskheta was the capital of the early Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century.
First we visit the city itself, inside the city Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, built in the 11th century, (the site itself dates back to the 4th century). It was the main pilgrimage place on the Silk Road, the burial place of Christ's robe (believed so) and the tomb place of Georgian Kings. The cathedral is the second largest church building in Georgia and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other historical monuments of Mtskheta.
We take a short walk around the town, which is being frequently renovated and offers a nice surroundings. Later we visit Samtavro monastery, complex was built in the 11th century. It contains the grave of queen Nana and Mirian III, the king of Iberia, who established Christianity as an official religion in Georgia. The famous Georgian monk Gabrieli is buried inside the Samtavro church as well.
Local dry fruit bazaar
Only after this we reach Jvari Monastery - The name of this monastery is translated as the "Monastery of the Cross." Jvari Monastery is the 6th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery near Mtskheta. Along with other historic structures of Mtskheta, it is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Jvari Monastery stands on the rocky mountain. It is a true architectural masterpiece of the early Medieval period overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers and the town of Mtskheta.
As of now the tour in Mskheta is finished and we head back to Tbilisi.