ამირანის გორა, Vardzia Travel Guide

Amiranis Gora, situated on the northeastern edge of Akhaltsikhe, is a significant archaeological site that provides a window into the Early Bronze Age. This locale is particularly noted for its connection to the Kura-Araxes culture, also known as the Early Transcaucasian Culture, offering invaluable insights into the period.Excavations at Amiranis Gora, led by Tariel Chubinishvili, have unearthed a metallurgical workshop with the earliest carbon date ranging from 3790-3373 cal BC. This discovery indicates a division of metallurgical production into extractive and processing branches, showcasing advanced techniques for the time. The site's well-defined stratigraphy makes it a key reference point for understanding the Kura-Araxes culture. The carbon dating of Kura-Araxes materials found here is among the earliest, dating back to 3630-3048 cal BC.While not a bustling tourist attraction with guided tours and visitor centers, Amiranis Gora offers a unique opportunity to connect with the ancient past. Imagine standing on the grounds where early metallurgists crafted tools and weapons, contributing to the development of civilization. The surrounding highland environment near Akhaltsikhe and Aspindza adds to the experience, featuring diverse archaeological features from the Kura River flood-plain to the high grasslands. Human habitation is evident from the 4th millennium BC, with artifacts from Roman and medieval periods also present.