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Zhinvali Water Reservoir: A Soviet-Era Marvel

Discover the beauty and history of Zhinvali Reservoir: a stunning Georgian landscape with a submerged medieval secret.

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The Zhinvali Water Reservoir, created in the 1980s, is a stunning man-made lake on the Aragvi River that supplies drinking water to Tbilisi. Surrounded by the Caucasus Mountains, it's a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and enjoying the scenery. The reservoir also holds a submerged 12th-century church, visible when water levels are low.

A brief summary to Zhinvali Water Reservoir

  • ს3, GE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit in late spring or early autumn for mild weather and optimal scenery.
  • Check the water levels, especially during winter, for a chance to see the submerged 12th-century Church of the Cross.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ananuri Fortress for a historical and cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Zhinvali Water Reservoir is approximately 56 km (about 50 minutes) from Tbilisi city center via the Tbilisi-Senaki-Leselidze Highway. This is the most direct and convenient way to reach the reservoir. Parking is available near the reservoir and Ananuri Fortress.

  • Public Transport

    From Tbilisi's Didube station, take a minibus to Mtskheta. From Mtskheta, hire a taxi to Zhinvali Reservoir, which is about 35 km away (approximately 40 minutes by taxi). The minibus fare from Tbilisi to Mtskheta is approximately 2-3 GEL, and the taxi fare from Mtskheta to Zhinvali is estimated to be 30-40 GEL.

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Discover more about Zhinvali Water Reservoir

Zhinvali Water Reservoir, located in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and Soviet-era engineering. Created in the 1980s to meet Tbilisi's growing water demands, the reservoir has become a popular tourist destination. The reservoir's construction involved building a dam on the Aragvi River, which led to the flooding of the town of Zhinvali and the relocation of its residents. The area was also an important archaeological site, but Soviet authorities proceeded with the project despite local protests. Today, the reservoir provides drinking water to about half of Tbilisi's population. Surrounded by the Alevi, Gudamakari, and Kartli mountain ranges, the Zhinvali Reservoir offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. The turquoise waters and lush green hills create a picturesque landscape perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, picnic, and enjoy various outdoor activities. One of the unique features of the Zhinvali Reservoir is the submerged 12th-century Church of the Cross. When the water level recedes, typically in winter, the church emerges, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history. The nearby Ananuri Fortress, a historic site overlooking the reservoir, provides a further glimpse into Georgia's medieval past and is a must-see attraction.

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