Mtskheta Tour with All UNESCO Sites & Ancient Ruins
Mtskheta, GE
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the ancient Jvari Monastery
- Marvel at the impressive Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
- Visit the historic Samtavro Monastery
- Discover the secluded Shio-Mgvime Monastery
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of Mtskheta
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Private English-speaking guide
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Includes all entrance tickets
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Private transportation with A/C
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Tour duration 9 hours
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Lunch option available
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Suitable for all fitness levels
Embark on a journey through time and explore the ancient capital of Georgia with the Mtskheta Tour. This private full-day trip from Tbilisi takes you to Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where human settlement dates back to the 2nd millennium BC. Discover the remarkable Jvari Monastery, built in the 6th century and remarkably preserved. Visit the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, known for housing the robe of Jesus, and the Samtavro Monastery, a protected UNESCO site. Delve into the rich history of Armaztsikhe-Bagineti, an ancient city from the 3rd century BC, and explore the mystical Shio-Mgvime Monastery in its limestone canyon. Choose the tour with lunch option to savor the best of local cuisine. Immerse yourself in the outstanding examples of medieval architecture and hidden gems of Mtskheta, and let the old capital of Georgia leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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9 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Mtskheta's UNESCO sites and ancient ruins on a private 9-hour tour, delving into Georgia's rich history and culture.
Included
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OtherPrivate English speaking guide -
OtherPrivate transportation with A/C
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OtherAll entrance tickets
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OtherBottled water
What to expect
Jvarii Monastery is a sixth-century Georgian Orthodox monastery. Along with other historic structures of Mtskheta, it is listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Jvari is a rare case of the Early Medieval Georgian church that survived to the present day almost unchanged. The church became the founder of its type, the Jvari type of church architecture, prevalent in Georgia and Armenia. Built atop of Jvari Mount (656 m a.s.l.), the monastery is an example of harmonious connection with the natural environment, characteristic to Georgian architecture.
30 minutes
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (the Cathedral of the Living Pillar) is an Orthodox Christian cathedral located in the historic town of Mtskheta, Georgia, to the northwest of the Georgian capital Tbilisi. A masterpiece of the Early and High Middle Ages, Svetitskhoveli is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It is currently the second largest church building in Georgia, after the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Known as the burial site of the claimed Christ's mantle, Svetitskhoveli has long been one of the principal Georgian Orthodox churches and is among the most venerated places of worship in the region.[1] Throughout the centuries, the cathedral served as the burial place for kings. The present cross-in-square structure was completed between 1010 and 1029 by the medieval Georgian architect Arsukisdze, although the site itself dates back to the early fourth century. The exterior archature of the cathedral is a well-preserved example of typical decorations of the 11th century. Svetitskhoveli is considered an endangered cultural landmark;[2] it has survived a variety of adversities, and many of its priceless frescoes have been lost due to being whitewashed by the Russian Imperial authorities.
60 minutes
Samtavro Monastery was founded in the 4th century by the King Mirian III, when a small church was built here by Saint Nino. The main temple is stylistically dated to the first half of the 11th century and was probably built or rebuilt soon after Svetitskhoveli cathedral, by the King George I and Catholicos-Patriarch Melchizedek I. It is protected by UNESCO and combines Transfiguration Church and Nunnery of St. Nino.
30 minutes
Shio-Mgvime Monastery was founded by the 6th century monk Shio, one of the Thirteen Assyrian Fathers who came to Georgia as Christian missionaries. St. Shio spent his last years as a hermit in a deep cave. The earliest building the Monastery of St. John the Baptist – a cruciform church, very plain and strict in its design dates to 560s-580s. The church has an octagonal dome covered with a conic floor and once housed stone iconostasis now at the Art Museum of Georgia. The monastery was altered in the 11th and 18th centuries but retained its original architecture.
60 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Budget Tour option does not include lunch, but you will stop in a restaurant to have lunch. -
Ladies need to wear headscarves and dresses in Georgian orthodox churches. Short trousers for men are also forbidden. Scarves and dresses can also be found near some church entrances.
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Please let us know if you or anyone in your group have any dietary restrictions. We will use the information to offer a lunch to you if you booked Tour with Lunch option.
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Tour includes walking in the old town of Mtskheta with various terrain, stairs etc. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
What our experts say
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking. -
Visit nearby restaurants for local cuisine.
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Ladies should bring headscarves for churches.
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Consider visiting Shio-Mgvime Monastery.
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Bring a camera for stunning views.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Are you ready to step back in time and explore the ancient capital of Georgia? Look no further than the Mtskheta Tour with All UNESCO Sites & Ancient Ruins. This private full-day trip from Tbilisi will take you on a journey through history as you visit the old capital of Georgia, which has been settled since the 2nd millennium BC. Get ready to discover fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites and delve into the rich cultural heritage of Mtskheta.What to Expect?
During this tour, you can expect to be awe-struck by the stunning historical sites that await you. Your first stop will be Jvari Monastery, a sixth-century Georgian Orthodox monastery perched atop Jvari Mount. Marvel at its harmonious connection with the natural environment and its architectural significance as one of the earliest examples of Georgian church architecture. Next, you'll visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, known as the Cathedral of the Living Pillar. This masterpiece of the Early and High Middle Ages is recognized by UNESCO and stands as one of the most venerated places of worship in the region. Learn about its fascinating history as the burial site of Christ's mantle and admire the well-preserved decorations from the 11th century. At Samtavro Monastery, founded in the 4th century, you can immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and explore the Transfiguration Church and the Nunnery of St. Nino. Finally, experience the serenity of Shio-Mgvime Monastery, where the 6th-century monk Shio spent his last years as a hermit. Admire the original architecture of this magnificent place and feel the spirituality that lingers in every corner.Who is This Tour For?
This tour is perfect for those who are eager to travel through time and uncover the hidden gems of Mtskheta. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour is tailored to suit your needs. Embrace the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations and witness the outstanding examples of medieval architecture found in the old capital of Georgia.Why Book This Tour?
By booking the Mtskheta Tour with All UNESCO Sites & Ancient Ruins, you are signing up for a unique and enriching experience. The tour allows you to explore a significant part of Georgian history and immerse yourself in the country's cultural heritage. With a knowledgeable guide at your side, you'll gain a deeper understanding of each site and its historical significance. Not only will you visit iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but you'll also have the chance to discover hidden gems like Armaztsikhe-Bagineti, a city from the 3rd century BC, and the medieval monastic complex known as "the cave of Shio." These lesser-known sites add a sense of adventure and discovery to your journey. Choose the tour with the lunch option to savor the best meals from the local traditional cuisine, tantalizing your taste buds and immersing yourself further in the Georgian culture. From start to finish, this tour promises to be an exceptional experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.Good to Know
There are a few essential details you should know before embarking on the Mtskheta Tour. The total duration of the tour is approximately 540 minutes, allowing you ample time to explore each location fully. The total drive distance is 105 km (65 miles), providing you with an opportunity to soak in the picturesque landscapes of Georgia. It's important to note that this tour involves some walking, so wearing comfortable shoes is recommended. Additionally, be prepared to encounter uneven terrain and steps at certain sites.Reviews
Individuals who have experienced the Mtskheta Tour with All UNESCO Sites & Ancient Ruins have expressed their delight and satisfaction. They praised the knowledgeable guides who provided valuable insights into the history and significance of each site. Visitors particularly enjoyed the serene atmosphere of the monasteries and the chance to immerse themselves in Georgian culture. Travelers praised the tour's itinerary, which strikes a perfect balance between well-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites and lesser-known hidden gems. They found the inclusion of traditional cuisine in the lunch option to be a delightful addition that enhanced their overall experience. Overall, the Mtskheta Tour offers a captivating journey through time, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and marvelous architecture of the old capital of Georgia. Embark on this tour and create memories that will last a lifetime.Journals from our explorers at this location
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