David Gareja Monastery Complex
Mount Gareja, Udabno
Established in the sixth century by one of the 13 Assyrian Fathers, this rock-cut monastery complex has 19 medieval monasteries, churches, chapels, and thousands of cells where monks once lived. It’s among Georgia's most important archaeological sites and is currently under consideration to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The complex is situated on the border with Azerbaijan, and while the ruins are a big draw, a trip to the complex also comes with some fantastic views. It makes for a popular day trip from Tbilisi, and many tours to the site are available, many of which include visits to the town of Sighnaghi and/or to area wineries.
The complex is not suitable for people who use wheelchairs or those with compromised mobility due to uneven and steep terrain.
Pack your passport and be attentive to where you go, as the complex is located in a disputed border area.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and sun protection.
The David Gareja Monastery Complex is located in the Kakheti Province, less than a 2-hour drive from the Georgian capital city of Tbilisi, on the border of Azerbaijan. If you're not visiting as part of a tour, you can hire a taxi to take you to the monastery for a day. There's also a shuttle bus that connects Gareja to Tbilisi, but it only runs from late spring through early autumn.
The David Gareja Monastery Complex is open daily throughout the year. The best time to visit is in spring or fall, when the temperatures are pleasantly warm, but not oppressive. The summers here can get really hot, and July and August are best avoided.
About a 90-minute drive northeast of the complex sits Sighnaghi, a historic town that’s often visited on the same day as Gareja. The walled town is characterized by beautiful old homes and a few religious sites, including a couple of Orthodox churches. Other highlights include the Sighnaghi National Museum and the Bodbe Monastery, where the relics of St. Nino, a woman who helped bring Christianity to Georgia, are kept.
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