Kutaisi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the
world and the third-most populous city in Georgia after Tbilisi and
Batumi. Situated 221 kilometres (137 miles) west of Tbilisi, on the
Rioni River, it is the capital of the western region of Imereti.
In fact, Kutaisi was the capital of Georgia from the 8th century BCE
until the 11th century. The trail of the legendary Argonauts is said
to have passed through the city during their search for the Golden
Fleece, and the remnants of dinosaurs have also been found nearby. It
is a city steeped in history and a place of exceptional warmth, humor,
and love.
The landmark of the city is the ruined Bagrati Cathedral, built by
Bagrat III, king of Georgia, in the early 11th century. The Gelati
Monastery a few km east of the city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the famous churches in Georgia is Motsameta monastery. It is
named after two saints, brothers David and Constantine. They were the
Dukes of Margveti, and were martyred by Arab invaders in the 8th
century. Besides the churches, there are other places of note such as:
Sataplia Cave, where one can observe footprints of dinosaurs; ruins of
Geguti Palace, which was one of the residences of Georgian monarchs;
"Okros Chardakhi" – Georgian Kings’ Palace; the Pantheon, where many
notable citizens are buried; The Kutaisi Synagogue which was built in
1885.
Best period to visit: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
• Bagrati Cathedral
• Colchis Fountain
• Gelati Monastery | UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Motsameta monastery
• Sataplia Nature Reserve
• Prometheus Cave