Destinations
Mtskheta
Mtskheta is Georgia's ancient capital and one of its main spiritual centers, bringing together Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, the Aragvi and Mtkvari river confluence, and the story of Georgia's Christian identity.
Destinations
Mtskheta
Mtskheta is Georgia's ancient capital and one of its main spiritual centers, bringing together Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, the Aragvi and Mtkvari river confluence, and the story of Georgia's Christian identity.
Why it matters
Mtskheta was the capital of Kartli from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD, and Christianity was proclaimed the official religion of Georgia here in 337. This makes the city a key place for understanding the political and spiritual beginning of medieval Georgia.
Main sights
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral stands in the center of Mtskheta and is connected with the tradition of Christ's robe. Jvari Monastery stands above the town where Saint Nino's cross was raised, and its 6th-century architecture became one of the most important models for Georgian church building.
How to visit
Mtskheta is close to Tbilisi, so it fits well into a half-day culture route, a full Tbilisi and Mtskheta day, or a longer route toward Gori, Uplistsikhe, Borjomi, and western Georgia.
Details
Questions travelers ask
Mtskheta is Georgia's ancient capital and one of its main spiritual centers, bringing together Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, the Aragvi and Mtkvari river confluence, and the story of Georgia's Christian identity.
Use the related tours and route guides on this page to match Mtskheta with nearby stops, travel pace, and the number of days you want in Georgia.