Images of Vardzia, a Cave City in the Samtskhe-Javakheti Region of Georgia

Vardzia is a cave monastery complex dating back to the 13th, or even the 12th century, located in the valley of the Kura River, approximately 100 km to the South of Borjomi.

The settlement is a complex of caves located in rocks at an altitude of 1300 meters above sea level. The length of the caves is up to 900 meters and depth - 50 meters into the mountain. There are up to 13 tiers, in which approximately 600 rooms are carved: warehouses, refectories, churches, cellars, chapels, residential cells, but not all of them are accessible to visitors.

The Assumption Church and the Bell Tower are the most recognizable in the complex. The entire complex is equipped with fences, stairs, and lighting. Visitors can walk up from the entrance below or take a bus up for an additional fee. Audio guides are also available at ticket counter.

Photo: Zakhar Petrov.