Georgia: the capital of Tbilisi
After the beautiful scenery of Northern Georgia around Stepantsminda and tasting the countries wine in the Khaketi region, we were ready for our last stop. The capital city of Tbilisi. We had seen photos online of the buildings the government has been constructing over the last years and they looked very impressive. I am not going to comment on whether that was money well spent though.
The night prior we went to a public bath. It was quite an experience. If I remember correctly, entrance was something like 1 EUR… if you’re in for a truly local experience, go for it. But do your Google research prior to going.
Without further ado, below are some snapshots from our one day tour through Tbilisi. We walked everywhere (except for the cable car) and it is easily walk-able.
Monument of St. George in the Freedom Square
Parliament of Georgia
If am not mistaken, this is a high school
Georgian National Opera Theater
Georgian National Academy Of Sciences
We crossed the Kura river (მტკვარი in Georgian) and continued our tour towards the government quarters
Soon we reached the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi which cannot be missed due to its sheer size. It is one of the largest religious buildings in the world and is relatively young as it was only constructed between 1995 and 2004.
Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
Inside Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
We again descended towards the river and took the cable car to the other side of the valley to enjoy the view.
The modest Presidential Palace
Concert hall and exhibition centre in Rike Park (unfinished at the time of writing)
The Bridge Of Peace
The Mother of Georgia
And to finish because it is some impressive, the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi once again from afar.
Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
Just as we were about to wrap up our tour, it started to rain heavily. One last lunch consisting of Khachapuri and Khinkali (which we had been eating for three days and really liked) and we were on our way back to the airport.
Georgia was one of those destinations where I did not really have any expectations. But I was very positively surprised. The food is great, there is lots to do and see, the infrastructure is good and value for money is very good. Definitely gets two thumbs up from me!
