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Uplistsikhe: An Ancient Cave City

Discover Uplistsikhe: Explore Georgia's ancient cave city, a blend of history, culture, and unique rock-cut architecture.

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Explore Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city in Georgia dating back to the Bronze Age. Carved into a rocky hillside, this once-thriving center offers a glimpse into pre-Christian Kartli, with its unique rock-cut architecture and historical significance.

A brief summary to Uplistsikhe

  • Uplistsikhe Complex Road, Kvakhvreli, GE
  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven ground and climbing stairs.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during summer, as there is limited shade.
  • Visit in the late afternoon to avoid the busiest times with tour groups.
  • Consider hiring an audio guide to enhance your understanding of the site's history and features.
  • Allocate at least 1.5 hours to explore the main highlights of Uplistsikhe.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tbilisi, take a marshrutka (minibus) from Didube Station to Gori (4 GEL, 1.5 hours, departures every 20-30 minutes). From Gori Bus Station, take a local bus to Uplistsikhe entrance (2 GEL, approximately hourly). Alternatively, hire a taxi from Gori for approximately 35 GEL for a round trip, including wait time.

  • Train

    Take a train from Tbilisi Central Railway Station to Kvakhvreli, the nearest village to Uplistsikhe (approximately 1 GEL, 2 hours, twice daily). From Kvakhvreli, it's a 2-kilometer walk to Uplistsikhe.

  • Taxi

    From Gori city center, a taxi to Uplistsikhe costs approximately 35 GEL for a round trip, including waiting time at the site. Ensure the driver is aware of the return journey, as finding a taxi at Uplistsikhe for the return to Gori can be difficult.

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Discover more about Uplistsikhe

Uplistsikhe, meaning 'Lord's Fortress,' is an extraordinary cave city in the Shida Kartli region of Georgia, located approximately 10 kilometers east of Gori. Founded around 1000 BC, during the late Bronze Age, it was inhabited until the 13th century AD. This ancient settlement was a vital religious, political, and cultural hub, particularly between the 6th century BC and the 11th century AD, serving as a major center of paganism before Christianity became prominent. Carved into a rocky massif on the left bank of the Mtkvari River, Uplistsikhe features a unique blend of rock-cut architectural styles influenced by cultures from Cappadocia and Northern Iran. The city is divided into three sections – lower, central, and upper – covering an area of about 8 hectares. Visitors can explore the remains of streets, squares, temples, theaters, and dwellings, all carved directly into the stone. Key features include the Hall of Queen Tamara, a grand reception hall, an ancient amphitheater, and a 10th-century Christian basilica at the complex's peak, showcasing the coexistence of different faiths throughout its history. A secret tunnel once provided access to the Mtkvari River, ensuring a water supply during sieges. Although an earthquake in 1920 caused some damage, restoration efforts since 2004 have helped preserve this remarkable monument, which was declared a museum in the 20th century and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993. Today, Uplistsikhe offers a fascinating journey into Georgia's ancient past.

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