Mtskheta — Guardians of the Relic

Your quest begins on the parvis of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a major 11th-century edifice (1010-1029) built on the foundations of a 5th-century church. This place, where Georgian kings were crowned, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994. According to tradition, it houses the Tunic of Christ, a relic whose protection is your primary mission. You will also find the tomb of Erekle II (1720-1798), the last king of Karthli, whose destiny is linked to the history of Mtskheta. The edifice spans 37 m in length and 27 m in width, its dome rising 35 m high, testifying to the grandeur of Georgia's ancient capital.

From Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, your path leads you to the heights of Jvari Monastery, a church founded in 590 by King Guaram I. This 6th-century cruciform basilica is also a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994. Jvari overlooks the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, offering panoramic views of Mtskheta and the surrounding valleys. It was here, in the 4th century, that Saint Nino evangelized Iberia, marking this place as a pillar of Georgia's Christianization. The iconic view from Jvari, about 1 km from the historic center, allows you to understand the strategic importance of this river junction since antiquity.

After contemplating the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers from Jvari, you descend towards Mtskheta to explore Bebristsikhe. This medieval fortress, perched on a steep rock, is accessible by a 100 m staircase from the valley. Its medieval remains dominate the city and offer views of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Bebristsikhe is an archaeological site that bears witness to the royal fortifications of the ancient capital, whose history and defense are intimately linked. As a Relic Guardian, understanding these defensive points is crucial for your mission.

Your itinerary then takes you to the Old Market of Mtskheta, a historic commercial district located near Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. This pedestrian area, with its cobbled streets and traditional Georgian architecture, was once the economic heart of the city. Not far from there is the Seat of the Patriarchate of the Georgian Orthodox Church, the official residence of the Catholicos-Patriarch in Mtskheta since the 5th century. Mtskheta has been the spiritual capital of Georgia, and the ecclesiastical seat has been established there since 545, underscoring the city's religious and political importance in the country.

Finally, your journey takes you to the Samtavro Necropolis, a cemetery in use since the 3rd century BC. This site, 500 m from Samtavro Monastery, houses a mausoleum with ancient royal tombs and is an offbeat spot just a 5-minute walk from the historic center. As a Guardian, you understand that the protection of Mtskheta's heritage is not limited to sacred edifices but also encompasses the resting places of royal ancestors. This route will have allowed you to explore the heritage of Mtskheta, a city rich in history and monuments, from its pagan origins to its role as a spiritual capital and ancient capital of Georgia, including its UNESCO World Heritage 1994 sites.