Museum-city of Mtskheta

A former capital of Georgia is situated upon the confluence of the two rivers, Aragvi and Mtkvari. From the 4th c. BC to 5th c. AD Mtskheta was the capital of Iberia (which was the ancient name of Georgia) that represented one of the ancient civilizations of the world. It is with Mtskheta that the formation of Georgian statehood and dissemination of Christianity is associated. In the 4th c. King Mirian, deeply influenced with sermons and preaching of St. Nino, declared Christianity the principal religion throughout the country. Up to this day, the city of Mtskheta remains the centre of Georgian Orthodox Church. The Cathedral of Svetitskhoveli (1010-1029) and Jvari Monastery (586-604) are among the most esteemed monuments that represent the Georgian culture and architecture. Nearby Mtskheta are situated the Shio-mghvime monastery complex and Zedazeni – the legendary location of the ancient pagan cult. 

Travel to Georgia