Uplistsikhe — meaning "Lord's Fortress" — is one of the oldest urban settlements in Georgia, carved directly into rock cliffs on the left bank of the Mtkvari River. First settled around 1000 BCE, this ancient cave town served as a major political and religious center during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Today, Uplistsikhe offers visitors a unique glimpse into pre-Christian Georgia, with dozens of rock-carved structures including pagan temples, royal halls, wine cellars, and even a pharmacy. Located just 80 km from Tbilisi, it's the perfect half-day trip to combine with Gori and other central Georgian attractions.

Why Uplistsikhe is a Must-Visit Ancient Wonder

What makes Uplistsikhe unique is its sheer age and the fact that it was continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years. Unlike many archaeological sites that were abandoned and forgotten, Uplistsikhe remained a thriving settlement until the Mongol invasions of the 13th-14th centuries. The site features an extraordinary collection of rock-carved structures, including:

• 3,000+ years of history — from the early Iron Age to the medieval period
• Over 150 rock-cut structures — including temples, halls, and living quarters
• Unique pagan temple — a rare surviving example of pre-Christian Georgian architecture
• Royal hall (Tamari's Hall) — a magnificent rock-hewn chamber with a columned ceiling
• Underground tunnel — secret passage to the river used during sieges
• 9th-century basilica church — built on the site of an ancient pagan temple

History of Uplistsikhe — 3,000 Years of Civilization

Uplistsikhe's history spans three millennia. The site was first settled around 1000 BCE and became a major political and religious center of Kartli (Iberia) during the Hellenistic period (4th-1st centuries BCE). After the adoption of Christianity as Georgia's state religion in the 4th century CE, many pagan temples were destroyed — but at Uplistsikhe, some structures were converted into churches, preserving their unique architecture.

The town reached its peak between the 9th and 11th centuries, becoming a major trading post on the Silk Road. In the 12th century, Queen Tamar (Georgia's most famous medieval ruler) used Uplistsikhe as a residence and fortified it further. The Mongol invasions of the 13th-14th centuries dealt a devastating blow, and the town gradually declined. By the 19th century, Uplistsikhe was completely abandoned and rediscovered by archaeologists in the early 20th century.

Main Structures and What to See

1. Main Street and Central Square

The excavated area of Uplistsikhe covers about 8 hectares, with a central "street" running through the site. The main square features a large hall with a columned ceiling — believed to have been a royal reception area.

2. Tamari's Hall (Royal Hall)

Named after Queen Tamar, this is the largest and most impressive structure at Uplistsikhe. The hall features a carved stone ceiling supported by columns, with recessed niches that once held statues or religious icons. The acoustics are remarkable — guides often demonstrate by singing or clapping inside.

3. Pagan Temple (Sun Temple)

A rare surviving pre-Christian temple, this structure features a circular central area and side chambers. Scholars believe it was dedicated to a sun deity. When Christianity arrived, the temple was converted into a church — you can still see Christian crosses carved into the pagan walls.

4. Wine Press Caves (Marani)

Uplistsikhe has several rock-cut wine presses (marani), demonstrating the ancient tradition of Georgian winemaking. The presses are carved directly into the rock floor, with channels directing juice into collection basins. This is proof that wine production here dates back over 2,000 years.

5. Underground Tunnel

A narrow tunnel cut through the rock leads from the town down to the Mtkvari River. This secret passage was used to access water during enemy sieges. Today, part of the tunnel is open to visitors — bring a flashlight (phone light works).

6. The 9th-Century Basilica

Perched at the highest point of the site, this three-nave basilica was built in the 9th-10th centuries on the foundation of an earlier pagan temple. The church is still functional, with a small altar and Christian fresco fragments visible on the walls.

How to Get to Uplistsikhe

Uplistsikhe is easily accessible by rental car from Tbilisi. It lies on the main highway to Gori and western Georgia.

• By rental car (recommended): 80 km from Tbilisi (1.5 hours via E60 highway). Road is fully paved and in excellent condition. Rent a car from Tbilisi with TripBox.
• By marshrutka (minibus): From Tbilisi Didube station to Gori (depart frequently, 2-3 GEL), then taxi to Uplistsikhe (15-20 GEL one way). Not convenient.
• By combined tour: Many tour operators offer day trips from Tbilisi combining Uplistsikhe and Gori. Cost: 60-100 GEL per person. Less flexible than a rental car.
• Parking: Large parking lot at the site entrance — 3-5 GEL per car.

Combine Uplistsikhe with Nearby Attractions

Uplistsikhe is perfectly positioned for a full day of sightseeing in central Georgia. Most visitors combine it with Gori (Stalin Museum) and Ateni Gorge.

Uplistsikhe Prices 2026

Best Time to Visit Uplistsikhe

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