Unveiling Vardzia: Georgia's Subterranean Metropolis, Secret dwellings of a Queen and her Empire
Exploring Queen Tamar's Hidden Kingdom: Vardzia, Georgia
Nestled in the cliffs of Erusheti Mountain, Vardzia is a remarkable cave city and monastery that offers a unique glimpse into medieval monastic life. This historical-architectural museum reserve, now protected by Georgia's heritage bodies, has undergone restoration in collaboration with institutions such as the Courtauld Institute [1].
Vardzia was initially established by King Giorgi III in the 12th century as a fortification and sanctuary. However, it was Queen Tamar, who reigned from 1184 to 1213, who expanded Vardzia into a vast monastic-fortified city. In its golden age, Vardzia extended about 500 meters along the cliff, reaching thirteen floors in some places and containing up to 6,000 rooms [2].
The site houses chapels, libraries, living quarters, wine cellars, a forge, and a pharmacy. An engineered aqueduct and irrigation system were in place, providing water for both spiritual and physical sustenance [1]. The Church of the Dormition, constructed in the 1180s, is a major landmark at Vardzia. Its lofty barrel-vaulted ceilings and remarkable 12th-century murals, including portraits of Giorgi III and Tamar, make it a must-visit [3].
To reach Vardzia from Tbilisi, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Akhaltsikhe (approx. 3-4 hours), and then a connecting marshrutka or taxi to Vardzia [4]. Other travellers may apply online for an e-Visa through Georgia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-Visa portal [5].
It's essential to note that citizens of over 90 countries, including the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and India, can enter Georgia visa-free for up to one year [5].
Beyond Vardzia, Akhaltsikhe offers a variety of culinary experiences, such as Meskhuri khachapuri, apokhti khinkali, tenili cheese, and fresh trout by the riverbank [6]. For nature lovers and birdwatchers, Paravani Lake, the largest lake in Georgia, is approximately 80 km from Vardzia [7].
The Zeda Vardzia convent, featuring a modest 11th-century church and rose gardens tended by resident nuns, is 3 km upstream from Vardzia [8]. The secluded cave monastery of Vanis Kvabebi, carved in the 8th century and accessible via wooden ladders, is located 10 km from Vardzia [9].
Despite later invasions and eventual Ottoman control, Vardzia continued as a monastic site for centuries until widespread abandonment. Today, Vardzia stands as a testament to Queen Tamar’s leadership, Georgian resilience, and medieval monastic life, making it one of Georgia’s most important cultural and historical sites [1][2][3].
References:
- British Museum
- Georgia Today
- Culture Trip
- Lonely Planet
- Georgia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Georgian Journal
- National Geographic
- Georgian Travel
- CNN Travel
Embarking on a journey to Vardzia, Georgia, offers travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the lifestyle of medieval monastic life, following Queen Tamar's expansion of this hidden kingdom in the 12th century. As you explore the vast monastic-fortified city, you can marvel at its historical sites, such as the Church of the Dormition, and experience the traditional Georgian cuisine in nearby Akhaltsikhe.
