Mtskheta Walking Tour: Explore the Ancient Capital of Kartli Kingdom
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1 Rating
Tbilisi
Discover the ancient capital of Kartli Kingdom on a walking tour of Mtskheta. Explore the rich history and diverse cultural heritage of this 1500-year-old city in Georgia.
Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Metekhi Cathedral - Tbilisi Tour includes all major places to visit in Tbilisi. As the town is very eclectic with multifaceted ethnicity, cultural or religious diversity, we also include those sites which can give you clear vision what is hidden behind the name of Tbilisi.
  1. Metekhi church (built in 13th century);
  • Narikala Fortress - 2. Narikala fortress and St. Nikolas Church (fortress is around 1600 years old), we can get to the place by air tramway;
  • Abanotubani - 3. Abanotubani (Sulfuric bath was built centuries ago, famous for its sulfur, therapeutic springs, worth to visit);
  • Sioni Cathedral Church - 4. Charden street, (best stores selling Georgian handicrafts, jewelry, restaurants);
  1. Sioni cathedral (built in 6-7th centuries)
  • Anchiskhati Basilica - 6. Anchiskhati church
What's Included
  • Experienced guides
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
Additional Information

The capital city of Georgia has a rich history that stretches back 1500 years. However, it’s a local custom to measure time in centuries rather than years, acknowledging the deep footprint of their past. Before Tbilisi came into prominence, Mtskheta served as the capital of the ancient Kartli Kingdom.

Tbilisi’s name originates from the word თბილი (translates to ‘warm’ in English). Among the locals, a favorite tale is told, inspired by the city’s famed hot sulfur springs. It was reportedly discovered accidentally by King Vakhtang Gorgasali during a hunting expedition in the 5th century. After his servants found a falcon and pheasant in a steaming hot spring, the astounded King decided to move the nation’s capital from Mtskheta to this remarkable location.

Although the city evolved over time, you can still witness the multicultural heritage in the bath district area, that houses a Muslim Mosque, an Armenian church, a Jewish Synagogue, and Georgian churches coexisting peacefully. Despite significant changes in the city’s ethnic composition over time, Old Tbilisi retains the aura of its rich history.

Location
Metekhi Cathedral
Metekhi St
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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Margaret_b
Nov 26, 2019
EXCEPTIONAL GUIDED TOUR! - What a fantastic tour with our very knowledgeable guide. We covered the city at our own pace, saw many fascinating sites, learned a great deal about Tbilisi's rich history and the present thriving city. The enthusiasm and loyalty our guide had toward Georgia was inspiring and made us respect the country and it's people even more. You can't go wrong with taking this tour. A wonderful day I will remember.
Review provided by Viator
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May 2024
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