Nestled in the Bolnisi Municipality of the Kvemo Kartli Region, Bolnisi, Georgia, is a quaint town renowned for being home to the oldest church in the country, Bolnisi Sioni. This remarkable claim is hardly surprising, considering that the region has been inhabited since ancient times and has played a significant role in Georgia’s rich history. Alongside Bolnisi Sioni, the area boasts over two hundred historical attractions waiting to be explored by eager travelers.
While remnants of ancient and medieval civilizations dot the landscape, the modern history of Bolnisi began between 1816 and 1818 when 500 families from Germany’s Württemberg region migrated to southern Georgia with the blessing of the Russian Empire. These immigrants, often referred to as “Schwabs,” established eight colonies in the region, the largest of which was Katerinenfeld—a settlement of 95 families named in honor of Queen Catherine of Württemberg, the sister of Tsar Alexander I of Russia. In 1921, Katerinenfeld was renamed Luxembourg, and in 1943, the town was officially designated Bolnisi, reflecting the area’s deep-rooted Georgian heritage. The name “Bolnisi” is believed to derive from the old Georgian word “bovi,” meaning “ore mine.”
Initially part of the Borchalo Mazra District, Bolnisi became an independent region in 1930. However, in 1941, all Germans in the Caucasus who were not married to locals were forcibly deported to Kazakhstan or Siberia. Despite the passage of time since this tragic exodus, the influence of the German community remains palpable in Bolnisi today. In 1966, Bolnisi District was established, and the city was declared the regional capital.
Today, Bolnisi is a city of contrasts, where visitors can experience the blend of modernity and ancient history, enriched by the German heritage and a vibrant population that includes Azerbaijanis, Armenians, and other ethnic minorities.
A visit to Bolnisi would be incomplete without exploring Bolnisi Sioni, situated in the picturesque village of Kvemo-Bolnisi. Dating back to 478-493 AD, this church is the oldest architectural monument in Georgia. Visitors should take the time to admire its walls adorned with Bolnisi inscriptions written in the ancient Asomtavruli script, along with the famous Bolnisi Cross, which inspired the design of Georgia’s national flag.
Another noteworthy site is the 13th-century Tsughrughasheni Church, located just 2 kilometers from Bolnisi Sioni. This church exemplifies Georgian ecclesiastical architecture from the Golden Age and is a beautiful representation of the region’s architectural heritage.
Additionally, Bolnisi is celebrated for its well-established wine culture. In 2018, it was added to the list of Georgia’s PDOs (Protected Designations of Origin), a title that has spurred the opening of several wineries offering tastings and tours for curious visitors. The white wines produced in Bolnisi are crafted from Rkatsiteli, Goruli-Mtsvane, and Chinuri grape varieties, while red wines showcase the rich flavors of Saperavi, Tavkveri, Shavkapito, and Asuretuli Shavi grapes. The region is also known for its delicate amber and rosé wines, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts.
Since 2016, thirteen historical German houses in Bolnisi have been recognized as Cultural Heritage Monuments. Visitors to the German Quarter can admire these unique homes, characterized by their expansive basements, balconies, and an eclectic architectural style that blends Gothic and Georgian influences. Nearby, a 4-hectare cultural and recreational park, established by German colonists, offers a serene retreat for visitors of all ages, especially on warm summer evenings.
The latest gem added to Bolnisi’s array of attractions is the Bolnisi Museum, which reopened in 2020 as a national educational center. This museum features exhibits that delve into various aspects of local history, from church architecture and archaeological discoveries to the impact of Bolnisi’s German immigrant population. Originally established in 1951, the museum underwent significant renovations in 2020, transforming it into one of the most engaging and informative institutions in provincial Georgia.