Vardzia Cave City, Georgia

Vardzia cave city, folded into the hills of Georgia’s Samtskhe-Javakheti region, is both a cultural symbol and spectacular natural phenomenon with a special place in Georgian hearts. Construction of this impressive edifice began in the latter part of the 12th century, as part of King Giorgi III’s efforts to bolster his southern border against the Seljuk Turks. However it was his much-revered daughter Queen Tamar who finished the complex after his death in 1184.

When completed, this troglodyte fortress extended 19 levels and contained around 6000 rooms, including a throne room, twenty-five wine cellars and a number of churches. Sadly, a major earthquake destroyed much of the complex in 1283, and the city was later sacked by both the Persians and Ottomans. However, since the end of Soviet rule Vardzia has become a working monastery again, with some caves now inhabited by monks.

Not only does Vardzia make for an impressive place to visit, but it sits on the beautiful Javakheti plateau, which abuts Georgia’s southern border with Turkey and Armenia. There’s so much to explore in this little-visited region, and the nearby Vardzia Resort is an excellent place to base yourself for a few days. Why not visit Vardzia and the Javakheti highlands as part of a tailor-made trip to Georgia, or to Georgia and Armenia? To start arranging this, contact us here.

Read Antonia’s story for the Financial Times, about this region, here.