Georgia's capital city, Tbilisi, is a vibrant mix of old and new. The city is a blend of different cultures, traditions, and architectural styles. One of the most fascinating parts of the city is the Old Town, which is a maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and hidden courtyards. In this blog post, we will take you on a tour of the top 5 must-see sights in the Old Town of Tbilisi.
1. Narikala Fortress
The Narikala Fortress is one of the most iconic landmarks of Tbilisi. The fortress is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the Old Town and the Mtkvari River. The fortress dates back to the 4th century, and it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore its walls, towers, and underground dungeons.
Legend has it that the fortress was built by King Vakhtang Gorgasali, who founded Tbilisi in the 5th century. The fortress was originally built as a defensive structure to protect the city from invaders. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The fortress is also a popular spot for photographers, especially at sunset when the city is bathed in a warm golden light.
2. Sulfur Baths
The Sulfur Baths are a unique feature of Tbilisi's Old Town. The baths are located in a district called Abanotubani, which is known for its hot springs and sulfur baths. The baths have been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for centuries. The water in the baths is believed to have healing properties, and many people come to the baths to relax and rejuvenate. Visitors can choose from a variety of baths, ranging from private rooms to public pools.
The baths are housed in traditional Georgian buildings made of brick and stone. The interiors are decorated with colorful tiles and mosaics, and the rooms are dimly lit by candles. Visitors can also enjoy a massage or a scrub, which is a traditional Georgian treatment that involves exfoliating the skin with a special brush. The baths are open late into the night, so visitors can enjoy a soak under the stars.
3. Metekhi Church
The Metekhi Church is a historic church located on a cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. The church dates back to the 13th century, and it has been an important religious site for centuries. The church was destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tbilisi. Visitors can explore the church's interior, which is adorned with frescoes and icons, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the river.
The church is named after Saint Shushanik, who was martyred for her Christian faith in the 5th century. The church was built on the site where she was buried, and it became an important pilgrimage site for Christians. Today, the church is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great place to learn about Georgian history and culture.
4. Anchiskhati Basilica
The Anchiskhati Basilica is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi. The church dates back to the 6th century, and it is a prime example of Georgian medieval architecture. The church has been restored several times throughout history, but it has retained its original charm and character. Visitors can explore the church's interior, which is adorned with frescoes and icons, and learn about the history of the church and its significance to Georgian culture and religion.
The church was built during the reign of King Dachi of Iberia, who converted to Christianity in the 6th century. The church was originally built as a small chapel, but it was later expanded and renovated. Today, the church is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Tbilisi.
5. Rustaveli Avenue
Rustaveli Avenue is the main street of Tbilisi's Old Town. The avenue is named after the famous Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli, and it is lined with historic buildings, museums, and theaters. The avenue is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and it is a great place to explore the city's cultural heritage. Visitors can stroll along the avenue, enjoy the street performers and musicians, and visit the many shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The avenue is home to many important cultural institutions, including the Georgian National Museum, the Rustaveli Theater, and the Georgian Academy of Sciences. The avenue is also home to many important historic buildings, including the Parliament of Georgia and the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater. Visitors can explore these buildings and learn about the history and culture of Tbilisi.
Conclusion
The Old Town of Tbilisi is a fascinating and vibrant part of the city. It is a blend of different cultures, traditions, and architectural styles, and it offers a unique glimpse into Georgia's rich history and culture. The top 5 must-see sights in the Old Town of Tbilisi are the Narikala Fortress, Sulfur Baths, Metekhi Church, Anchiskhati Basilica, and Rustaveli Avenue. These sights offer a great introduction to the city's cultural heritage and are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.