Vardzia is one of the most extraordinary cave monasteries located in southern Georgia’s Samtskhe-Javakheti region. You have the chance to visit one of the cave complexes in the world as part of Vardzia Tour.
Tour agency Select Georgia Tours offers a one-day tour of Vardzia. Just imagine you will be able to explore a unique cave town or cave city as many people call Vardzia.
Over the past several years, we have successfully organized numerous tours across the country, gaining firsthand experience in the challenges of crafting itineraries that cater to diverse travelers. Our mission is to design truly unique and memorable tours, carefully tailored to different interests and preferences. The Vardzia Tour is a perfect example of this commitment, offering an exceptional travel experience that showcases the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Georgia.
Feel free to ask our tour guides anything about the fascinating Vardzia Cave City—they are always happy to share their knowledge! Plus, they fully understand the challenges travelers may face and are ready to make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. To cut a long story short, Select Georgia Tours is at your disposal. We also offer group tours! You can explore Georgia along with your friends or colleagues.
Now, let’s gather more information about the Kingdom of Georgia and Vardzia in particular.
The History of Vardzia
It is hard to overestimate the importance of Vardzia as it played an important role in the history of Georgia. The complex was built in the middle ages, more specifically in the 12th century. Queen Tamar, Georgia’s first female ruler, led the project. She is one of the most celebrated monarchs in the country. Georgians refer to her as King Tamar.
The main reason for building the monastery was to provide safety for monks and local people. Georgia faced constant threats from the various invaders. She imagined a hidden city carved into the cliffs. This city would be a safe place for worship and learning.
Interestingly, the city included hundreds of rooms, churches, tunnels, and irrigation systems. The project symbolized Georgia’s golden age, a period of territorial expansion, cultural development, and strong national identity.
Despite its hidden nature, Vardzia couldn’t escape foreign invasions. The Mongols and later the Persians attacked the monastery, forcing its inhabitants to abandon parts of the complex. These invasions, combined with a devastating earthquake in 1283, significantly damaged Vardzia. The earthquake was particularly destructive as it exposed the hidden caves, making the monastery vulnerable to further attacks.
However, even after these disasters, Vardzia remained an important religious center. Monks continued to live in the caves, maintaining its churches, frescoes, and underground water supply. Over the centuries, Vardzia evolved into a sacred pilgrimage site and a symbol of Georgia’s resilience.
The Location of Vardzia
Vardzia is carved into the Erusheti Mountains, overlooking the Mtkvari River valley. The complex is hidden within the cliffs, making it nearly invisible from afar. The monastery is about 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) above sea level. It is surrounded by rough mountains and green valleys.
The natural landscape around Vardzia enhances its mystical appeal. The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare mountain birds, wild goats, and endemic plant species. The site’s remote and picturesque environment has contributed to its continued use as a spiritual retreat.
An Architectural Marvel
Vardzia is a masterpiece of medieval rock-cut architecture, with hundreds of rooms carved into the mountainside. These rooms served various purposes, including:
- Monastic Cells – Living quarters for monks, complete with sleeping areas, kitchens, and storage rooms.
- Churches and Chapels – Religious spaces adorned with beautiful frescoes and icons.
- Tunnels and Corridors – A network of pathways connecting different levels of the monastery.
- Defensive Structures – Hidden rooms and lookout points designed for protection.
The main attraction of Vardzia is the Church of the Dormition, located at the heart of the complex. This church features intricate frescoes depicting Tamar, her father King George III, and various religious figures. These paintings, which have survived for over 800 years, are among the finest examples of medieval Georgian art.
Vardzia’s engineering also includes an advanced water system. Mountain springs were redirected through tunnels to provide a consistent water supply to the monastery. Some of these ancient irrigation channels are still functional today.
UNESCO recognition and conservation efforts
Due to its historical and cultural importance, Vardzia has been proposed for UNESCO World Heritage status. Georgian authorities, along with international conservation teams, are working to preserve its fragile structures and artwork. Restoration projects focus on stabilizing rock formations, cleaning frescoes, and protecting the site from erosion.
Interesting facts about Vardzia
1. Hidden Entrance and Secret Passages – Originally, Vardzia could only be entered through a hidden tunnel near the river. This concealed entrance made it difficult for invaders to find the monastery.
2. Earthquake Revelation – The 1283 earthquake exposed the monastery’s caves, making them visible from afar. Before the disaster, Vardzia appeared to be just a simple rock face.
3. A Monastic Stronghold – Vardzia is a religious site, but it also has strong defenses. It includes escape tunnels, watchtowers, and hidden storerooms.
4. King Tamar’s Connection – According to legend, King Tamar spent time at Vardzia, personally overseeing its construction. Some even believe she lived in the monastery for a period.
5. One of the Largest Cave Complexes in the World – Vardzia is huge. It stretches about 500 meters across the rock face and has 19 levels.
6. Vardzia’s Name Origin – The name “Vardzia” is believed to have originated from a legend. Young Tamar was exploring the caves when she got lost. Her uncle, searching for her, heard her cry out: “Ak var, dzia!” meaning “I am here, uncle!” This phrase evolved into “Vardzia.”
7. Still an Active Monastery – Unlike many other historical cave sites, Vardzia is still partially inhabited by monks. They continue to perform daily prayers and rituals.
