Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, is a city steeped in history, culture, and spiritual significance. A journey to Mtskheta is like stepping into a time machine—transporting you through centuries of Georgian legacy. Founded in the 1st century BCE, this venerable city once bore the title of capital before it passed to Tbilisi. Yet Mtskheta retained its profound importance: it was here, in 327 CE, that Georgia first embraced Christianity, anchoring the city forever as the spiritual heart of the nation.
Today, Mtskheta is beloved by travelers for its astounding wealth of landmarks and sacred sites. With its picturesque landscapes and deep historical roots, the city was the first in Georgia to earn a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Its rich tapestry of ancient churches, stone-paved streets, and traditional architecture weaves together a timeless setting unlike any other.
At the forefront stands the magnificent Svetitskhoveli Cathedral—one of Georgia’s most revered religious monuments. Nearby, perched atop a mountain with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the country, is the Jvari Monastery, an architectural jewel in its own right. The medieval Samtavro Monastery, home to many relics and icons, invites visitors into a world of sacred serenity.
Mtskheta is often called the “Holy City” and even the “Second Jerusalem” for its extraordinary spiritual aura and abundance of religious treasures. It’s a haven for admirers of medieval architecture, history buffs, and those yearning for the authenticity of cobbled alleys, tiled rooftops, and the quiet magic of a city that whispers stories of the past.
Though by modern standards Mtskheta may resemble a large village more than a city, its ancient grandeur and evocative atmosphere remain palpable to every visitor strolling its lanes.
The historical center and Old Town exude charm—quaint quarters with cobblestone walkways, terracotta rooftops, ancient churches, and intimate museums. Begin your exploration with the majestic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a site of awe-inspiring spiritual and historical weight.
Admire the luminous mosaics of the Samtavro Monastery, the remnants of ancient fortresses, and the mystical Shio-Mgvime Monastery nestled in a rocky gorge. Hike to the Jvari Monastery and capture the famed panorama where the Aragvi and Kura Rivers converge—a view that inspired Mikhail Lermontov and now fills the pages of modern travel guides.
You can visit Mtskheta as a short getaway for just a few hours, or linger for two or three days to fully absorb the richness of Georgian history etched into every stone and spire.
On the northern outskirts of Mtskheta lie the ruins of Bebris Tsikhe Fortress, built in the 9th century. Halfway between the fortress and Samtavro Monastery, you’ll find the Samtavisi Burial Grounds—among the oldest known cemeteries in Georgia, unearthed in the late 19th century. This archaeological marvel holds burials dating from the Neolithic period (10th century BCE) to the early Middle Ages. Nearby, visitors can also explore a newly discovered Bronze Age settlement.
History enthusiasts will also enjoy the local archaeological museum and the ancient city gates, now housed in the ground floor of the former Karibche Cinema, just next door to the museum itself.
Not far from Mtskheta, another gem of the past lies submerged beneath the modern world: the Pompey Bridge, built by Roman legions in 65 BCE. It remained in use until the early 20th century but was submerged when a hydroelectric station was launched. During periods of low water in the Kura River, remnants of this ancient crossing reappear—silent witnesses to the days of empire.
• Discover Georgia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site—ancient monuments, cathedrals, and monasteries that are effortlessly accessible and deeply inspiring.
• Stroll through centuries-old cobblestone streets where the atmosphere of medieval Georgia lives on, preserved by careful restorations that returned tiled roofs and graceful facades to their former glory.
• Sample local delicacies like churchkhela and homemade jams, sip regional wines, and browse for handwoven carpets or ornately carved horns in the bustling artisan markets.
• Stand in awe beneath the soaring domes of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, one of the largest and most significant ecclesiastical complexes in Georgia, adorned with sacred relics, frescoes, and icons.
• Climb to the hilltop Jvari Monastery and capture the legendary vista where the Aragvi and Kura rivers embrace—a view immortalized in Lermontov’s poem Mtsyri and countless modern travel blogs.
• Take a convenient day trip to and from Tbilisi—only 25 minutes away by minibus or taxi. Tbilisi itself offers vibrant walking routes and cultural discoveries from dawn till dusk.
• Add Mtskheta to your journey along the spectacular Georgian Military Road, a route that weaves past ancient fortresses, cascading waterfalls, mountain rivers, and sacred sites—including the iconic Ananuri Fortress.
Mtskheta lies just 20 kilometers from the center of Tbilisi, barely beyond the northern boundary of the Georgian capital. From Tbilisi’s central railway station, take the metro to Didube Station, where you’ll find the intercity bus terminal. Minibuses to Mtskheta depart from 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM at regular 15–20 minute intervals. Though route signs are in Georgian, friendly locals are always ready to assist. The journey takes around 25 minutes.
Passenger trains and commuter rail services bound for western cities like Batumi, Zugdidi, Kutaisi, Poti, Nikoz, and Borjomi (10–12 departures daily) also stop at the Mtskheta railway station. From there, it’s a scenic 1.5-kilometer walk along the Kura River to the town center—or a quick taxi ride, if you prefer.