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Can’t Miss Cave Exploration in Georgia

  • Writer: Erin
    Erin
  • Mar 14, 2020
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jul 30

This week we are traveling to Georgia, not to the state, but to the country. This little-known country is perfect for anyone looking for a truly unique destination. Georgia has a lot of things that it can claim, like the highest settlement in Europe or the home to the first Europeans, but possibly the most interesting is the fact that Georgia is home to the deepest cave on Earth. It measures just over 7250 ft in-depth and is one of the most unique places on Earth. The country is full of more than just the deepest cave. We will explore more of the caves in Georgia.

The image shows a vast and ancient cave monastery complex, likely Davit Gareja in Georgia, carved into a rocky hillside. Numerous natural and man-made caves, arches, and openings are visible across the rock face. Some sections feature constructed stone walls and stairs, indicating a blend of natural formations and human architectural intervention. The terrain appears dry and rugged, with sparse vegetation. The sky is partly cloudy and bright. The overall impression is one of historical significance and a unique architectural landscape.
Davit Gareja Cave Monastery

Davit Gareja Cave Monastery

The first and most famous cave is Davit Gareja Cave Monastery. It is a series of caves on the Azerbaijan border, home to the royal church and the center of religious and cultural activity between the 11th and 13th centuries. It remained vital until the Bolshevik rule in the early 20th century. Over the years, it suffered a lot of destruction, but since the fall of the Soviet Union, the monastery has been restored to its former glory.

The image shows the interior of a large karst cave, specifically identified as Sataplia Karst Cave in State Sataplia Reserve, which is known for its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. The cave is dramatically illuminated with vibrant artificial lighting in various colors, including blues, reds, greens, and yellows, highlighting the unique geological features of the cave. A pathway with railings is visible in the lower part of the image, guiding visitors through the illuminated chambers.
Sataplia Nature Reserve

Sataplia Nature Reserve

Another great destination is Sataplia Nature Reserve. There is an underground river in the Reserve, truly massive stalactites, stalagmites, and even one resembles a human heart. Above ground, some great finds include dinosaur footprints and the high point of the park with an observation tower. This Reserve was built around the foothills of the Sataplia Mountain, which was named after the tradition of collecting honey from bees that call the area home.

The image shows the Vardzia Cave Monastery, a remarkable historical and architectural site carved into the side of a mountain in Georgia. It features numerous cave dwellings, tunnels, and churches excavated from the rock face, with visible staircases and pathways connecting different levels. On the right, a large arched structure, likely part of a church entrance, is prominent. In the background, lush green hills and a valley can be seen under a partly cloudy blue sky. The scale of the complex is impressive, showcasing the intricate design of this ancient monastic settlement.
Vardzia Cave Monastery

Vardzia Cave Monastery

The final cave is taken straight from a scene of Lord of the Rings known as Vardzia Cave Monastery. This cave is unique because Georgians built it for the fabled queen Tamar. This cave fortress extends 13 levels below the and has over 6,000 rooms. The outside of the cave was even turned into the cultivable ground for farms that kept the inhabitants in food. An Earthquake caused over half of the mountain to collapse and exposed several of the inner rooms. It also faced destruction by the Persians. Today you can visit the remaining rooms and learn more about the site's history.


There is way more to do than visit caves in Georgia. Want to explore this amazing country? Schedule a consultation today to get started.

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