Trialeti Petroglyphs

Sometimes, you think you’ve seen it all in Georgia—the ancient fortresses, the emerald valleys, the bustling markets of Tbilisi, and the soul-stirring echoes of its millennia-old wine culture. But no, this captivating country always has a way of surprising you with hidden gems that defy expectations and ignite the imagination. Just a two-hour drive from the vibrant capital, nestled in the vicinity of the town of Tsalka in the Kvemo Kartli region, lies a remarkable archaeological treasure: petroglyphs dating back to the Mesolithic era. This isn’t just another site; it’s a rare open-air gallery of prehistoric art, accessible to all who dare to seek it out.

Georgia has long been a treasure trove for archaeologists, with petroglyphs from various historical periods unearthed across its diverse terrain. Many of these ancient carvings have found their way into museums and research institutions, preserved behind glass for scholars to study. But here, near Tsalka, is something truly special: petroglyphs that remain in their natural setting, exposed to the elements yet open for public exploration. Discovered by chance in the late 19th century it wasn’t until the Soviet era that a dedicated archaeological expedition delved deeper, meticulously documenting and analyzing the site.

Known as the Trialeti Petroglyphs, this collection consists of several flat stone slabs bearing rock carvings, grouped into small panels. In total, there are six such panels, each a canvas of human creativity from the Mesolithic and Early Bronze Age—roughly the 10th to 3rd millennia BCE. The drawings themselves are diminutive, measuring just 2.5 to 20 centimeters, making them easy to overlook at first glance. While some sources mention around a dozen carvings, our exploration revealed 3 to 4 slabs where the images are clearly visible and remarkably well-preserved. Of course, in a place without dedicated guardianship, modern vandals have left their marks with graffiti, but rest assured, the authentic petroglyphs stand out unmistakably.

Majority of these petroglyphs depict elements of the local fauna: deers, horses, lions, coiled snakes, darting fish, and soaring birds populate the panels, some of the animals even shown tethered to traps. Geometric patterns add a layer of abstraction—crosses, squares, and radiant depictions of the sun, possibly representing celestial or ritual significance. And then there are the human figures: hunters armed with bows and arrows, frozen in mid-stride as if eternally pursuing their quarry.

To witness these wonders firsthand, you’ll need to venture to the village of Tikilisa, located to the west of Tsalka. The journey begins with crossing a small bridge over a shallow river. Once across, turn left (south) and find a suitable spot to park your vehicle at these coordinates: 41.591351, 43.968343. From there, it’s a short, invigorating walk of about 200 meters on foot. As you approach, keep an eye out for a large white gas pipeline—before reaching it, veer up the slope to your left. The path is straightforward, though a bit uneven. For precise navigation, use this GPS point: 41.588646, 43.975231. 

Combine a visit to the petroglyphs with other natural attractions nearby. In close proximity lies the Tsalka Reservoir. Nearby, the Dashbashi Canyon cuts a dramatic swath through the earth, its sheer cliffs and winding paths offering additional opportunities for hiking and photography.