David Gareja

1 day

David Gareja(80 km south east of Tbilisi) - just one among many attractive sites in Georgia. This place is indeed unique for its wild nature, rare plants and animals, mural masterpieces and rock-cut monasteries, the most ancient of which were founded in the first half of the 6th century AD.

Our trip will start in the morning (09:00-10:00). We will drive to David Gareja desert via town of Rustavi, which is one of the major industrial towns of Georgia. We want to warn you that the last 30 km. of the way you will drive ground roads in the semi desert. After guided excursion to the monastery, around noon, you will have outdoor picnic lunch nearby the monastery complex.

Sights of excursion:
- John The Baptist Monastery complex (6th - 9th cc, fragments of frescos)
- Lavra Monastery (6th c AD)
- Udabno Monastery complex (9th-17th cc frescos); 2-3 hours walking round trip

The 13 Holy Syrian Fathers from Antioch were responsible for strengthening Christianity in Georgia. They founded several monastery complexes in Kartli and Kakheti, and turned these two regions of Georgia into centres of Christian culture.
Later David Gareja, Shiomghvime, Zedazeni, Alaverdi, Nekresi, Samtavisi and other cathedrals were built on the site of former monasteries.

What to bring with:
For your convenience we suggest to wear sport shoes. Please do not forget warm jacket and raincoat.
Note:
Walking round trip will take you 2 or 2.5 an hour to Udabno monastery complex.


Prices include:
- Inland transportation by car (1-2 pass) or minibus (3-9 pass.)
- Picnic lunch
- Excursion fees
- Cultural tours Guide (English, German, French, Russian speaking upon request)