Discover Shida Kartli

Uplistsikhe, the fortress and historical collections

Uplistsikhe is one of the oldest inhabited sites in the Caucasus and is located in Shida Kartli. The complex, carved into the rock, can be explored via its streets and squares. You can also see public spaces, temples, a theatre, pharmacies, wine presses and wine cellars. This variety makes the site especially interesting if, on an outing, you want to learn not just about individual buildings but also about the different uses of a historic settlement.

Since 24 October 2007, Uplistsikhe has been on Georgia’s Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage status. This listing is another point of reference for travellers interested in Georgia’s cultural heritage. In Gori, the fortress dates back to the 13th century and is classified as an immovable cultural monument of national significance. It also serves as a viewpoint overlooking the city and the surrounding Caucasus Mountains.

The Gori Historical and Ethnographical Museum preserves archaeological collections dating from the 4th to 3rd millennium BC onwards. Its manuscripts department also offers insights into different periods: its holdings include fragments of a medieval handbook from 1667, as well as works copied in 1729. The Stalin Museum houses more than 40,000 exhibits in six exhibition halls. These three examples offer very different reasons to explore archaeological finds, manuscripts or museum exhibits.

Monasteries and regional art history

The Kintsvisi Monastery Complex brings together architectural history and particular artistic significance. Its construction is associated with the reign of Queen Tamar, from 1184 to 1212. The 12th- to 13th-century Church of St Nicholas is the complex’s central domed building. The icons of saints feature Georgian Asomtavruli script and Greek inscriptions. Kintsvisi’s artworks influenced the development of Georgian monumental and medieval art.

The Rkoni Monastery Complex also offers several historical points of interest: the Church of the Virgin Mary was built in the second half of the 7th century and contains 12th-century frescoes. The Dzama Valley has up to 60 historical monuments, including old and modern churches and monasteries, fortresses, towers and natural attractions. Those interested in sacred architecture will find a different perspective here from that offered by Gori’s collections and historic sites.

Valley trails, a waterfall and views

The Ateni Valley is home to the remains of numerous Bronze Age settlements. A 2.5-kilometre hiking trail through the valley leads to Biisi Waterfall.

For sweeping views across the Kartli region, the Abukhalo walking trail leads to the summit of Bardzimjvari. Alongside the historical sites, this offers a hike and a viewpoint as potential travel interests. If you would like to combine nature and culture, you can plan your outings around the destinations that appeal to you most.

Nazuki and regional cuisine

Nazuki is a sweet bread with a tradition that has been passed down for centuries and is particularly common in Shida Kartli cuisine. It adds a regional food culture dimension to the historical and scenic attractions.

When choosing a holiday rental in Shida Kartli, you might first consider whether your trip will focus more on museums and architecture, hiking trails and views, or a mix of both. For more guidance within the region, you can also explore the pages for Didi Ateni, Agara, Mekheti and Surami.

For the broader travel overview: Georgia.

More destinations

More places within the same travel destination:

Mtskheta-Mtianeti, Guria, Adjara, Adjara.