Begin your tour with a visit to Jvari Monastery, Georgia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perched on a cliff, the church stands on the exact site where Saint Nino erected the first wooden cross, symbolising the victory of Christianity over paganism. From here, witness the legendary confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers.
Next, descend into Mtskheta itself and visit its main cathedral, Svetitskhoveli. Admire the majestic architecture and unique frescoes of this 11th-century masterpiece. According to legend, the cathedral's most sacred relic, the Tunic of the Lord, is buried beneath its foundations.
On the northern façade, look for the relief of a hand holding a square. This is the hand of the architect Arsukidze. Legend has it that his teacher, envious of his student's skill, ordered his hand cut off so he could never build anything more beautiful.
To conclude your journey, head to the northern edge of Mtskheta to visit Bebristsikhe (The Elder's Fortress). This ancient fortification once guarded the road leading from the north, standing watch over the city for centuries.
The fortress gets its name from a touching storey: after the death of a local lord, his children, Simon and Makrine, lived here. When Simon fell into trouble, Makrine’s prayers saved him, leading them both to dedicate their lives to God. They lived to such an old age that the castle became known as “Bebris Tsikhe”—the Fortress of the Elder.
