Mesolithic Petroglyphs, Shida Kartli Travel Guide

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Explore Georgia's ancient past at the Mesolithic Petroglyphs, a unique outdoor gallery of prehistoric rock art in the Trialeti area.

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Shida Kartli
Mesolithic Petroglyphs

Discover the Mesolithic Petroglyphs near Tsalka, Georgia, a unique open-air gallery of prehistoric rock art dating back thousands of years, offering insights into the lives and beliefs of ancient cultures.

A brief summary to Mesolithic Petroglyphs

Koda-Partskhisi-Manglisi-Tsalka-Ninotsminda, GE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mesolithic Petroglyphs.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the significance of the carvings.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as rain can make the paths slippery.

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Getting There

Driving

The Mesolithic Petroglyphs are located near the village of Gantiadi, approximately 12 km east of Tsalka. From Tsalka, follow the road towards Koda-Partskhisi-Manglisi-Tsalka-Ninotsminda. The road can be rough in sections, so an appropriate vehicle is recommended. Parking is available near the site. Note that there may be limited signage, so using a GPS or asking locals for directions is advisable. There are no tolls on the direct route to the petroglyphs. Parking is free.
Taxi

From Tsalka, a taxi to the Mesolithic Petroglyphs is a viable option. Negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand. A one-way trip should cost approximately 20-30 GEL. Ensure the driver knows the exact location, as it is somewhat remote. There are no additional fees or tolls.

Discover more about Mesolithic Petroglyphs

The Mesolithic Petroglyphs, located in the Trialeti area near Tsalka, Georgia, represent a remarkable collection of prehistoric rock art. Engraved over several periods from the Mesolithic to the Middle Bronze Age, these petroglyphs provide a rare glimpse into the artistic and symbolic world of ancient inhabitants. The site is situated in the narrow gorge of the Avdris-Tsqali River, a tributary of the Ktsia River, near the village of Gantiadi.The petroglyphs feature a variety of depictions, including geometric shapes, zoomorphic figures (animals), and anthropomorphic images (human-like figures). Animals such as deer, horses, mountain goats, birds, and fish are commonly represented, alongside more fantastical and hybrid creatures. Human figures are often portrayed as hunters with bows and arrows, smaller in scale compared to the animals. Geometric figures include crosses, checkerboards, and sunbursts.Discovered in the 1880s and rediscovered in 1976 after earlier unsuccessful attempts, the Trialeti petroglyphs are the only example of prehistoric rock art of this type found on the territory of Georgia. Similar carvings have been found in Palani Cave in Anatolia, dating back to the Mesolithic period. The petroglyphs are recognized as a monument of the Cultural Heritage of Georgia and are part of the Prehistoric Rock Art Trails, a cultural route designated by the Council of Europe.