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.
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.
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.
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.