Destinations / Samtskhe-Javakheti
Vardzia Cave City & Southern Borderlands
The Monumental 12th-Century Cliff Fortress of Queen Tamar
Elevation: 1,300m Best: May to October Drive: 3.5 - 4 hours
Regional Overview
Discover Vardzia Cave City & Southern Borderlands
Carved entirely into the sheer basalt cliffs of Erusheti Mountain above the Kura River, Vardzia is an astonishing 13-tier cave city founded by King George III and Queen Tamar in 1185, housing hundreds of chambers, bell towers, secret tunnels, and monastic churches.
Why Travel to Vardzia Cave City & Southern Borderlands
- ✓Walk through secret cliffside staircases, wine cellars, and frescoed cave sanctuaries
- ✓Inspect authentic 12th-century portrait frescoes of legendary Queen Tamar
- ✓Visit nearby Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe and the defensive megaliths of Saro
- ✓Sample Meskhetian alpine honey, tenili string cheese, and volcanic mineral water
Tours & Expeditions in Vardzia Cave City & Southern Borderlands
Direct local operator bookings with zero price markups
More seasonal experiences currently being added for this region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vardzia Cave City & Southern Borderlands
How long should I spend exploring Vardzia?
A complete walking tour through the cave sanctuaries, tunnels, and terraces takes approximately 2 to 3 hours with moderate walking on stairs.