Kutaisi

 

Kutaisi, is a city in west Georgia; it lies on the banks of the river Rioni. It was officially announced as a city in 1811, though in earlier periods it is mentioned among the most important cities of Georgia. Its documented history begins in the II century BC. The ancient authors consider Kutaisi as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Colchis. According to archaeological findings the present territory of Kutaisi and its surrounding area were inhabited a hundred thousand years ago. In the XV-XVIII centuries BC the presence of Colchi’s culture is confirmed there. Kutaisi is the second industrial and cultural city in its meaning.

 

Sightseeing:

 

Bagrati Cathedral

The Cathedral of the Dormition. It was built in the XI-XII centuries during the reign of Bagrat in Kutaisi on the Ukimerioni hill. In 1994 the Bagrati Cathegral was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Gelati

Georgian architectural ensemble, the most important monument of the middle ages. It is located near Kutaisi. Gelati was established by King David the Builder in 1106. In 1994, Gelati Monastery was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

 

Tskaltubo

The town is located at 15 km from Kutaisi. It is known as a spa resort. It is famous for its thermal - radon mineral baths, soft, transparent and odorless water. Its temperature is 33-35 degrees of Celsius. The water cures problems with limbs, peripheral nervous system, heart and blood vessels, skin and metabolic disorders, endocrine system, gynecological diseases, rheumatism treatment. Karst cave microclimate is used in treatment of bronchial asthma, angina, hypertension, neurosis and chronic pneumonia. All year round open season, the treatment period is 20-24 days.

 

Motsameta

Monastic complex located in west Georgia. The temple was built in the memory of the holy brothers David and Konstantine Mkheidze. With a small group of people they fought against Arabs but were defeated. According to the legend the monastery was constructed on the place where Muslim aggressors executed David and Konstantin Mkheidze due to the fact Georgian princes, refused to accept Islam. The martyred brothers were buried in this Monastery.

Annual public holiday Motsametoba is held in the monastery.

 

Sataplia

 

Prometeus Cave

 

Sairme