Destinations
Vardzia
Vardzia is a 12th-century cave monastery and fortress city associated with Giorgi III and Queen Tamar, reached with Khertvisi Fortress and Rabati Castle on the southern Georgia route.
Destinations
Vardzia
Vardzia is a 12th-century cave monastery and fortress city associated with Giorgi III and Queen Tamar, reached with Khertvisi Fortress and Rabati Castle on the southern Georgia route.
Why it matters
Vardzia shows the scale of medieval Georgian cliff architecture. It was not only a monastery, but also a fortified settlement with tunnels, rooms, wine cellars, water systems, and religious spaces built into the rock.
Main sights
The Dormition Church and its frescoes are the center of the complex. Khertvisi Fortress on the road adds another defensive layer, while Rabati Castle closes the route with the multicultural history of Akhaltsikhe.
How to visit
Vardzia is best visited from Akhaltsikhe or as part of a longer route through Borjomi, Green Monastery, Rabati, Khertvisi, and southern Georgia.
Details
Questions travelers ask
Vardzia is a 12th-century cave monastery and fortress city associated with Giorgi III and Queen Tamar, reached with Khertvisi Fortress and Rabati Castle on the southern Georgia route.
Use the related tours and route guides on this page to match Vardzia with nearby stops, travel pace, and the number of days you want in Georgia.