Paravani Lake, the largest lake in Georgia, captivates visitors not only with its stunning beauty but also with the rich tapestry of legends and mysteries that surround it. This serene body of water is steeped in history, particularly the tale of Saint Nino, the revered enlightener of Georgia, who is said to have arrived at its shores in the 4th century, ultimately leading to the country’s conversion to Christianity.
Born in Cappadocia to an Orthodox Christian family, Saint Nino dedicated her early years to studying the Holy Scriptures in Jerusalem. During her studies, she became curious about the fate of the Lord’s tunic—the garment worn by Jesus during the crucifixion. Nino learned from her mentor, an elderly woman named Nianfora, that this sacred tunic had been brought to Iberia, the ancient kingdom that corresponds to modern-day Georgia.
One night, Nino was visited in a dream by the Virgin Mary, who gifted her a wooden cross crafted from vine branches and instructed her to travel to Iberia to spread the message of Christianity. Upon waking, Nino found herself holding the cross, which she then tied into her hair before embarking on her journey to Georgia.
Accompanied by the Armenian queen Hripsime, her mentor Gayane, and 35 other young women fleeing the persecution of Emperor Diocletian, Nino’s pilgrimage was tragically interrupted when they were confronted by Tsar Trdat III. In a brutal act, he killed and tortured the women, but Nino managed to escape by hiding in a thicket of rose bushes. Heartbroken yet resolute, she continued her journey until she reached the tranquil shores of Paravani Lake.
The lake and its surrounding landscapes left a profound impression on Nino, who found solace in their calmness and beauty. She spent several days by the water, where the local inhabitants offered her support and nourishment, allowing her to regain her strength before she set off for the capital city of Mtskheta.
However, Paravani Lake is not just renowned for its historical connections; it also harbors many unresolved mysteries beneath its dark waters. Divers have uncovered oddly shaped structures on the lakebed, spanning an area of 900 square meters. These findings suggest the presence of ancient burials, submerged for reasons yet unknown. Archaeologists have also discovered household items, pottery, fishing tools, and various artifacts dating back to the 4th century BC. It is believed that during this time, the lake may have been dry, suggesting that a community once thrived in the area. The identity of these ancient inhabitants and the nature of their lives remain shrouded in mystery.
Today, Paravani Lake covers an area of approximately 40 square kilometers. Due to its high altitude and geographical location, the water maintains a consistently low temperature, often freezing over in winter under a thick layer of ice. The climate surrounding the lake is known to be harsh and windy, prompting the planting of around 5,000 resilient pine trees in the area to enhance the local flora, as these trees are well-suited to withstand the severe winter conditions.
On the southern shores of the lake lies the small village of Foka, home to a convent dedicated to Saint Nino. Visitors can explore the convent’s shop, where the nuns sell an array of handmade goods, including hats, painted dishes, sweets, jams, marmalades, oils, and chocolates.
If you find yourself traveling to Georgia, a visit to Lake Paravani is an absolute must. The turquoise waters, combined with the tranquil rolling hills, evoke the spirit of Saint Nino, who, centuries ago, gazed toward Iberia from these very shores with hope and determination.