Mtskheta-Mtianeti: The Cradle of Georgian Christianity & Alpine Majesty

Mtskheta-Mtianeti is a region of profound spiritual significance and breathtaking mountain landscapes, stretching from the ancient capital of Mtskheta to the towering peaks of the Greater Caucasus. This is where Georgia’s Christian identity was born, and where adventurers find some of the country’s most epic trekking routes.

Key Facts

Capital: Mtskheta (Georgia’s spiritual heart, UNESCO-listed).

Population: ~95,000 (sparsely populated outside towns).

Language: Georgian (with unique mountain dialects in Khevi).

Religion: Georgian Orthodox (home to the Mother Cathedral).

Famous For: UNESCO sites, Gergeti Trinity Church, and the Georgian Military Highway.

Why Visit Mtskheta-Mtianeti?

Birthplace of Georgian Christianity – Where the nation converted in 337 AD.

Dramatic Caucasus Landscapes – Snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and alpine meadows.

Historic Silk Road Route – The Georgian Military Highway to Russia.

Adventure Hub – Trekking, skiing, and 4×4 expeditions.

Top Places to Visit

1. Mtskheta (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century) – Burial site of Christ’s robe.

Jvari Monastery (6th century) – Iconic hilltop church overlooking two rivers.

Samtavro Monastery – Where St. Nino lived and prayed.

2. Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) & the Khevi Region

Gergeti Trinity Church – Postcard-perfect church under Mount Kazbek (5,047m).

Dariali Gorge – Dramatic canyon with a Soviet-era hydro plant.

Gveleti Waterfalls – Hidden cascades near the Russian border.

3. Gudauri & the Georgian Military Highway

Gudauri Ski Resort – Best skiing in Georgia (Dec–Apr).

Ananuri Fortress – 17th-century castle on the Aragvi River.

Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument – Soviet mosaic viewpoint.

4. Remote Mountain Villages

Shatili – Medieval stone fortress-village in Khevsureti.

Ushguli (partially in Svaneti) – Highest permanently inhabited village in Europe.

Truso Valley – Abandoned villages and mineral springs.

Cultural & Spiritual Significance

Christian Roots – Mtskheta is the "Second Jerusalem" for Georgians.

Pagan Legacy – Mountain communities kept pre-Christian traditions longer.

Polyphonic Singing – Unique Khevsur and Mtiuluri folk music.

Adventure Activities

Trekking:

Kazbek Summit (3-4 days, technical climb).

Juta to Roshka (Chaukhi Pass, 3 days).

Skiing/Snowboarding: Gudauri’s freeride zones.

4×4 Tours: To Shatili, Truso, or Abudelauri Lakes.

Local Cuisine (Mountain Comfort Food!)

Khinkali (Khevsur Style) – Giant, meaty dumplings.

Khashlama – Boiled beef or lamb with herbs.

Mtskhetian Lobiani – Bean-filled bread.

Gudauri Khachapuri – Baked with extra cheese for cold days.

How to Get There?

From Tbilisi:

30 min to Mtskheta.

3 hours to Kazbegi (via Military Highway).

Marshrutka: From Tbilisi’s Didube Station to Kazbegi/Gudauri.

Train: Only to Mtskheta (then switch to road transport).

Best Time to Visit

June–September – Best for trekking (wildflowers in July!).

December–April – Ski season in Gudauri.

Avoid April/May – Muddy trails from snowmelt.

Mtskheta-Mtianeti is unbeatable for combining spiritual history and high-altitude adventure. Whether you’re marveling at UNESCO-listed churches, standing in the shadow of Kazbek, or driving the epic Military Highway, this region captures Georgia’s soul.