Kakheti

Description

Dynamic and historic, Kakheti is the richest wine-making region of Georgia, inhabited by hospitable and openhearted people who live surrounded by high rugged mountains. If the mountains are the crown of Georgia’s superb landscape, then Kakheti is its glowing heart.

Winemaking in Kakheti can be traced back eight thousand years. Archaeologists have discovered remains dating back to the 6^thCentury BC demonstrating that Georgia is almost certainly the cradle of wine. Today, over 500 varieties of grape are grown in Georgia and the ancient Kakhetian method of producing wine is still practiced - the juice is kept in a huge clay jar called Qvevri, buried under the ground. And once you taste Georgian wine, you’ll understand why this organic wine is so popular.

Davit Gareja semi desert monastery is carved entirely in the rock and overlooks the valleys of Azerbaijan. It was once a royal monastery and the churches represent almost the entire range of architectural and artistic styles from the 6^th century onwards, while its original frescos are equally stunning. 

Sighnaghi is a tiny town nestled inside the protective wall. With its cobbled streets, colored balconies, tiled rooves and marvelous views to Alazani River Valley and the Great Caucasus,Sighnaghi is referred as the charming town of love.

Alaverdi Monastery was founded in the second half of the 6^th century by Assyrian Father Ioseb from Alaverdi who is buried in the Monastery. St. George Cathedral was built by Kakhetian King Kvirike in the 11^th century. The cathedral has retained remains of artwork of the 11^th- 16^thcenturies.

Gremi Archangel Church, built in 1565, is considered as one of the masterpieces of late medieval Kakhetian architecture. Here you can also visit an interesting museum telling many stories about Gremi as a town.

Tsinandali Museum was the summer residence of Chavchavadze family and the beloved place of Georgian aristocracy back in the 19^th century.Tsinandali estate is encircled by well-maintained gardens and rare trees not found elsewhere in Georgia.

Tusheti is fascinating and exclusive area tacked away in the Caucasus mountains along Kakheti’s northern border with Russia. The Abano Pass is only open from mid-June to early October and travelers should expect the unexpected as they wind their way between the steep cliffs. Tusheti has truly unique cultural heritage, and locals still practice their own form of Orthodox Christianity. Shale stone towers, rolling hills and the ancient sites take one’s “WOW” away.