Mysteriousness-is Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe

 Being transfused into the yellow, blinding on the sun sandstones, you will be greeted by mysterious city Uplistsikhe. Mystery is the most suitable word for the city, it has existed for 3000 years. River Mtkvari wide, unhurried block- was protecting the city from south, steep rocks – from north. If it is not the best shelter during war times then what is? There, on steep rocks, magicians were walking with pride, graciously taking offerings in the name of Gods of Moon, Sun and Underground… There, by the main gates patiently waited people, gathered from all across Iberia, to ask for leniency and good harvest to silent statues of gods…

 But centuries have passed, and people changed their Gods. History was changed drastically, a Cross was placed, which carried new religion with it. Cross was risen on the hill, with the best view over Mtskheta – on Jvari.  This place is know known as  Jvari (cross in Georgian) now, but at that time it was just an unnamed hill, which put a beginning to a new Era. The place of worship chanced and pilgrims came to Mtskheta. Uplistsikhe did not cease to exist, but flourishing capital of Iberia- Mtskheta – was attracting people like a magnet: believers, merchants, wanderers and craftsmen. Mysterious Mtskheta, which looks like a postcard from Jvari, was enormous. It was center of trading, religion, business deals, education and reforms.

Two towns, two histories, two mysteries, which won`t be able to solve, but we can steel feel it…

Route: Mtskheta, monastery Jvari, Uplistsikhe, winery (at will).