Cities
Samtskhe-Javakheti is a region in southern Georgia, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes.
Geography & Climate
Located in the southern part of Georgia, bordering Turkey and Armenia.
Includes parts of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains and the Javakheti Plateau.
Features volcanic lakes, such as Paravani Lake (the largest in Georgia) and Tabatskuri Lake.
The climate is continental, with cold winters and mild summers.
Historical Significance
Historically part of the Meskheti (Samtskhe) and Javakheti provinces.
Ruled by the Jakeli noble family during the Middle Ages.
Home to many medieval fortresses, churches, and monasteries.
The region was later under Ottoman control before being incorporated into the Russian Empire and then Georgia.
Cultural & Ethnic Diversity
The population includes Georgians, Armenians (majority in Javakheti), and small communities of Russians and Greeks.
The Armenian community is culturally distinct, with many speaking Armenian as their first language.
Known for its unique traditions, including local cuisine and crafts.
Major Cities & Towns
Akhaltsikhe – The regional capital, home to the Rabati Fortress (a mix of Georgian, Ottoman, and Persian architecture).
Akhalkalaki – A predominantly Armenian town with a strong military presence (former Russian base).
Borjomi – Famous for its mineral water and the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park (one of Europe’s largest national parks).
Ninotsminda – Known for its Armenian heritage and nearby Lake Khanchali.
Tourist Attractions
Vardzia – A spectacular cave monastery from the 12th century, carved into a cliff.
Sapara Monastery – A medieval Georgian Orthodox monastery near Akhaltsikhe.
Khertvisi Fortress – One of Georgia’s oldest fortresses, overlooking the Mtkvari River.
Abastumani – A historic resort town known for its astrophysical observatory and sulfur baths.
Economy
Agriculture (potatoes, dairy farming).
Tourism (historical sites, nature resorts like Borjomi).
Mining (especially in the Javakheti region).
Transport & Accessibility
Connected to Tbilisi via the Akhaltsikhe-Borjomi road.
A railway line runs from Tbilisi to Akhalkalaki, linking Georgia to Turkey via the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway.
