The stone sculptures in Sno, a small village in the Kazbegi region of Georgia, are part of a remarkable art project in the Caucasus. These sculptures consist of impressive stone artworks depicting giant faces, often with a melancholic or mysterious expression. They were created by local artist Merab Piranishvili, who is renowned for his unique ability to bring faces and emotions to life in natural stone. Working primarily with local stones, he carves expressive facial features that tell stories about life, the soul, and the deep connection with nature.
The sculptures symbolize the ancient wisdom of the mountain dwellers and the spirit of the past. The faces sometimes appear sad or contemplative, reflecting both the challenges and the beauty of life in the Caucasus. Fully integrated into the surrounding landscape, the sculptures stand among the mountains, hills, and rugged grasslands, blending seamlessly with their natural environment. This is what makes Piranishvili’s work so unique: he respects the natural shapes of the stones and subtly adds human characteristics without compromising their raw, natural beauty. Piranishvili often works directly in the field, selecting local stones and carving them with a hammer and chisel. He carefully considers the natural form of each stone, adapting his designs to create a result that looks organic and harmonizes with the surrounding environment.
Sno is located near the breathtaking Stepantsminda area and the imposing Mount Kazbegi. The stone sculptures are a hidden gem in this region, attracting an increasing number of art enthusiasts and travelers. The site exudes a serene, almost meditative atmosphere, perfect for those seeking something unique off the beaten path. If you ever find yourself near Kazbegi, these sculptures are well worth a visit. They offer a truly unique experience where art and nature come together in perfect harmony.
In addition to the church, Sno is home to other attractions, such as the famous monolithic stone heads and the historic Sno Fortress. Visitors can enjoy the rich history and the picturesque landscapes that this mountain village has to offer. Sno is a popular base for trekking and mountain climbing in the Kazbegi region of northern Georgia. Hiking trails to the Chaukhi Pass attract adventurers. This pass leads to Juta, another mountain village that serves as a starting point for treks to the impressive Chaukhi peaks.
From the quiet village of Sno, a breathtaking panorama unfolds—one that captures the heart of the Khevi region in a single gaze. Here, the mighty Mount Kazbek rises solemn and snow-clad, while the jagged, dramatic silhouette of Chaukhi Mountain pierces the sky. It’s a rare and awe-inspiring moment when two of Georgia’s iconic peaks stand in view together, creating a natural amphitheater of alpine splendor.
Perhaps it’s this very beauty that inspired the creation of the boutique Sno Kazbegi Hotel, a luxurious retreat that rivals the famed Rooms Hotel in Stepantsminda. With its sleek design and sweeping views, it seamlessly blends into the grandeur of the landscape while offering a sophisticated escape into the wild.
Yet, Sno holds another, more unusual treasure: a stone pantheon of Georgia’s literary greats. Carved into enormous boulders lining the roadside are the solemn faces of Alexander Kazbegi, Ilia Chavchavadze, Shota Rustaveli, and Vazha-Pshavela—giants of the written word who shaped the soul of the nation. Among them stands another solemn visage, hewn from the same gray rock: a likeness of Jesus Christ. These monumental sculptures are the labor of love—and labor of hands—of local sculptor Merab Piranashvili, who has devoted his own funds and countless hours to this extraordinary open-air gallery.
Don’t miss this singular sight. The stone heads are located 2.5 kilometers before you reach Sno, on the right-hand side of the road from the turnoff. The coordinates are: 42.608209, 44.630906. Blink, and you might drive past them—but it would be a shame to do so.
Beyond Sno, the paved road gives way to a smooth gravel track, passable even for standard vehicles. This route, leading to Juta, winds through several small, modest highland settlements. Though charming in their own quiet way, they are but preludes to what lies ahead.
Then comes the final stretch: a dramatic, winding journey through the picturesque Sno River Gorge. Here, the road hugs steep slopes and skirts dizzying drop-offs, offering an exhilarating drive through a landscape that feels more Tushetian than Kazbegian. It’s wild, raw, and impossibly beautiful—not quite like the more familiar Stepantsminda, but something more secluded, more elemental.
