There is no fuss here. You stand on the edge of a cliff, looking at the vast expanses stretching into Azerbaijan, the monotonous landscape of a scorched semi-desert. The air rings with silence, and only the wind whispers ancient prayers. It's not just a monastery. It is a cave city carved into the mountain by monks who sought solitude with God. An incredible, harsh grace still lives here. I still don't understand how people could create such a thing many hundreds of years ago without modern technology. This is one of the largest cave monastery complexes in the whole world! It was founded in the sixth century by St. David of Gareji, one of the 13 Assyrian fathers. The complex stretches for 25 km and includes hundreds of caves: cells, churches, refectories, crypts. Unique frescoes. In the main monastery complex, the Lavra of David, frescoes of the VIII-IX centuries depicting David of Gareji and his followers have been preserved. These are priceless works of art of ancient Georgian painting! A symbol of faith and perseverance. The monastery has survived for centuries: flourishing under Queen Tamara, devastation by the Mongols and Persians, and rebirth again. This place is a symbol of indomitable spiritual power. The dust of centuries, the sun—scorched space and the feeling of eternity - that's what David-Gareja is. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, take water and a hat with you. The climbs are quite steep, but the view from the top is worth it! It is better to drive an SUV with an experienced driver or on a guided tour.

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Valeriy S.

Level 4 Local Expert

Be sure to visit if you have a car and time. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Tbilisi, and the road is good. Admission is free. You can walk for an hour and a half, see the monastery of the 6th century. The monastery has a beautiful view of the surrounding area.

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