Kutaisi

★★★ Kutaisi — Georgia's Second City

Kutaisi (approx. 150,000 inhabitants) is Georgia's second-largest city and the capital of the Imereti region. It is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe — as early as the 3rd millennium BC, Kutaisi was the center of the Kingdom of Colchis, that mythical land into which the Greek Argonauts sailed to steal the Golden Fleece.

Today, Kutaisi is a pleasant, manageable town on the Rioni River with a charming market, a lively old town, and two of Georgia's most important sacred buildings right on its doorstep.

★★★ Gelati Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage)

The Gelati Monastery (founded in 1106 by King David IV the Builder) is Georgia's most important cultural monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was not only a monastery but also an academy — one of the first centers of higher education in Europe, comparable to the universities of Bologna and Paris.

The main church (Virgin Mary Cathedral) houses a massive mosaic of the Virgin Mary in the apse — one of the most important Byzantine mosaics outside Constantinople. The frescoes (12th–17th century) cover every wall and ceiling. King David IV is buried at the entrance — he wanted everyone entering the monastery to walk over his grave.

11 km northeast of Kutaisi. Marshrutka (1 GEL) or taxi (10 GEL). Free of charge. Appropriate clothing required!

★★ Bagrati Cathedral

The Bagrati Cathedral (11th century) sits atop a hill overlooking Kutaisi and offers a magnificent view over the city and the Rioni Valley. It was destroyed by the Ottomans in 1691 and controversially rebuilt in 2012 — which led to UNESCO revoking its World Heritage status. Nonetheless, the building is impressive, and the panoramic view from the terrace is great.

★★ Kutaisi Market (Green Bazaar)

The Green Bazaar of Kutaisi is one of the best markets in Georgia. Mountains of Churchkhela, spices, Tschurtschchela, cheese, fruits, and pickled vegetables. Locals shop here — the atmosphere is authentic, and the prices unbeatable. Tasting is expressly encouraged!