#mtkvari

[iakhsar]

Narik'ala, Tbilisi, Sakartvelo.

cloudy weather

[uniqueperson8]

[apricusapollo]

my friends haven't seen teen wolf and I was telling them theo's backstory and I was about to tell them that tara fell in the river but almost said mtkvari instead of just a river 😞😞

[khachmaxo]

radfems scary as shit what if they find out that trans people emit magical beams of glitter and joy that makes everything okaysies theyll kill us . they will take your Wings… and the world will crumble like a bar of yummy grains and raisins….. no……

[suetravelblog]

Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, Svetistkhoveli Church Georgia

Mtskheta Orthodox Church The daytrip to Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, and Svetistkhoveli Cathedral was very educational. The historical area in central-eastern Georgia is wrapped in a peaceful environment of lush greenery and expansive mountain vistas. The stunning area is located about 12 miles north of Tbilisi at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi Rivers. Mtskheta is home to UNESCO World…

[religious-extremist]

The Hundred Thousand Martyrs of Tbilisi

In 1227 Sultan Jalal al-Din of Khwarazm and his army of Turkmen attacked Georgia. On the first day of the battle the Georgian army valorously warded off the invaders as they were approaching Tbilisi. That night, however, a group of Persians who were living in Tbilisi secretly opened the gates and summoned the enemy army into the city.

According to one manuscript in which this most terrible day in Georgian history was described: “Words are powerless to convey the destruction that the enemy wrought: tearing infants from their mothers’ breasts, they beat their heads against the bridge, watching as their eyes dropped from their skulls.…”

A river of blood flowed through the city. The Turkmen castrated young children, raped women, and stabbed mothers to death over their children’s lifeless bodies. The whole city shuddered at the sound of wailing and lamentation. The river and streets of the city were filled with death.

The sultan ordered that the cupola of Sioni Cathedral be taken down and replaced by his vile throne. And at his command the icons of the Theotokos and our Savior were carried out of Sioni Cathedral and placed at the center of the bridge across the Mtkvari River. The invaders goaded the people to the bridge, ordering them to cross it and spit on the holy icons. Those who betrayed the Christian Faith and mocked the icons were spared their lives, while the Orthodox confessors were beheaded.

One hundred thousand Georgians sacrificed their lives to venerate the holy icons. One hundred thousand severed heads and headless bodies were carried by the bloody current down the Mtkvari River.

O ye thousands of stars, the chosen people guarding the Georgian Church with your golden wings, intercede for us always before the face of God!

[artifacts-and-arthropods]

The Medieval Cave City of Vardzia, in Georgia (South Caucasus), c.1150-1283 CE: this cave city was originally built as a fortress that lay hidden within the mountain, and it included more than 6,000 caves, 25 wine cellars, 15 chapels, an apothecary, a forge, a bakery, farming terraces and an irrigation system

This enormous cave complex is carved along a section of the Erusheti mountain range, which is located at the foothills of the Caucasus, in southern Georgia (Sakartvelo). As this map illustrates, Georgia stands right at the crossroads between Europe and Asia.

Vardzia was designed to serve as a fortress, particularly in the event of a Mongol invasion. The entire cave city was originally concealed within the mountain (though much of it is now exposed) and it could only be accessed through a series of hidden passageways that began near the banks of the Mtkvari River, which runs through the valley below. The city was also protected by defensive walls, and it contained a secret escape tunnel, along with several dead-end tunnels that were designed to delay and confuse any invading forces.

In its prime, the cave city at Vardzia was inhabited by tens of thousands of residents. It featured more than 6,000 chambers spread out across nearly 20 different levels, all of which were connected by an intricate labyrinth of tunnels, staircases, terraces, and hidden passageways. The city included 25 wine cellars (which is almost enough to survive a Mongol invasion), 15 churches,  dozens of monastic cells, hundreds of additional dwellings, a nunnery, a throne room, a library, a bakery, an apothecary, a forge, several dining halls, a cemetery, a bell-tower, a series of stables, farming terraces, and an irrigation system, among other things.

Water was supplied using a system of aqueducts that were connected to the river in the valley below, providing the inhabitants with both drinking water and agricultural irrigation.

Vardzia also functioned as a Georgian Orthodox monastery; in addition to its many chapels, it also contained dozens of monastic chambers that were inhabited by monks, along with a large collection of religious manuscripts and relics. Many of the inner chambers at the site were decorated with elaborate frescos depicting the life of Christ, the history of the Georgian Orthodox Church, and major figures from Georgian history/folklore.

Unfortunately, most of the original structures at Vardzia were destroyed by a massive earthquake that struck the region in 1283 CE, less than a century after the site was completed. The earthquake sheared away part of the mountainside, exposing the cave complex and demolishing almost two-thirds of the site.

The surviving cave system represents only a fraction of the original city, which now contains less than 645 chambers and only 13 levels. The network of caves stretches roughly 500 meters across the cliffside.

When the earthquake tore through the site in 1283, much of the fortress and many of its defenses were also destroyed, and Vardzia lost most of its military and defensive purposes, but the site continued to operate as a monastery for several centuries after that. It narrowly escaped the Mongol Invasions of the 1290s, but it was eventually raided by the Persians in 1551. The invading forces looted many of the valuable artifacts from the site and burned most of the remaining manuscripts, relics, and other items that were stored within the cave system, leaving permanent scorch marks along the walls of the inner chambers.

Vardzia was ultimately abandoned after the Ottomans took control of the site in 1578.

Medieval portrait of Queen Tamar, the "Mountain Queen:" this portrait is one of the few Medieval frescoes that still decorate the inner chambers of Vardzia

The cave city of Vardzia is often associated with Queen Tamar the Great, who ruled over the Kingdom of Georgia from 1184 to 1213 CE, during a particularly successful period known as the "Golden Age" of Georgian history. Queen Tamar was also recognized as the Georgian King, with Medieval sources often referring to her as "King Tamar," because she held the title of queen regnant (meaning that she possessed the full power, position, and authority of a sovereign king). She was the first female monarch to be given that title in Georgia.

The initial phases of construction at Vardzia began under the command of Tamar's father, King Georgi III, but most of the complex was later built at the behest of Queen Tamar herself, who owned several dedicated rooms at Vardzia and frequently visited the cave city. Due to her relationship with the cave complex at Vardzia, Queen Tamar was also known as the "Mountain Queen."

Some of the monastic caves at this site have been revived in recent decades, and they are once again inhabited by a handful of Georgian monks.

Many of the remaining structures at Vardzia are also open to the public, though many of the chambers and passageways are narrow, steep, and difficult to access. I visited Vardzia during one of my first trips to Georgia back in 2012, and it truly is a spectacular site, especially in the chambers where the Medieval frescoes are still intact.

Sources & More Info:

Atlas Obscura: Vardzia Cave Monastery

CNN: Exploring Vardzia, Georgia's Mysterious Rock-Hewed Cave City

Lonely Planet: Vardzia

Globonaut: 5 Facts about Vardzia, Georgia's Hidden Cave City

Wander Lush: Vardzia Cave Monastery (complete visitor's guide)

[batri-jopa]

Greetings from Georgia once again!😘

My second day in Georgia is over and I'm already worried about coming back home...

I can't imagine how I will ever survive without accidentally hearing Ratchuli at least twice a day?🥺

(I remember how hard I was trying to translate Ratchuli to get its meaning in the movie And The We Danced / და ჩვენ ვიცეკვეთ (2019) - and right now it appeared to me that words are not as important as the fact that this music simply makes you want to spontanically dance on the street!😂 and it really does🥰)

Okey, have some landscapes from Georgian Military Road now:

Most worth mentioning:

Jvari Monastery with a view at river Mtkvari joining with Aragvi

Rivers White Aragvi and Black Aragvi - joining but not mixing their waters (and my finger)

Zhinvali Reservoir and Ananuri Castle:

Mount Kazbek / ყაზბეგი (dormant stratovolcano, 5054 metres), near Gergeti Trinity Church / გერგეტის სამების ეკლესია (you know the one from all these cult classic photos?)

Russia–Georgia "Friendship" Monument (yes, it feels improper nowadays, but still it's interesting as a piece of art with a lot of georgian cultural symbols. Not to mention that the view around it is breathtaking❤️).

And mountains all around, majestic and Autumn colored!😍

[elliepassmore]

The Living Medicine review

5/5 stars Recommended if you like: nonfiction, STEM books, medical history, antibacterial resistance

Big thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Coming into the book I didn't really know much about bacteriophages except what I learned in middle school honors bio. This book provided so much interesting information in a very easy to understand way. It mixes the science of bacteriophages with the history of how they came to be used as 'living medicine.' I absolutely flew through this book and greatly enjoyed reading about bacteriophages...even if some of the antibacterial resistant stuff scared me a bit (I knew it was an issue, but I had no idea just how prevalent it is).

The first chapter provides an overview of antibacterial resistance, how it came about, and just how much risk we're taking by continuing to overuse/overprescribe antibiotics. As much as it seems a distant menace, the threat of a post-antibiotic age is very real, and relatively close at hand, if not already here. The last chapter(s) of the book bring this topic back around, but with a more hopeful tone. By the end of the book we know all about phages and their history in medicine, and the final chapters showcase how researchers and doctors are currently working to get them approved for use, providing us with an invaluable weapon against drug-resistant pathogens.

The bulk of the book discusses how bacteriophages came to be on scientists' radars and the huge controversies that sprung up regarding them, both past and present. I found it super interesting to read about how they occur in the natural world and have been acting as antipathogenic agents for far longer than we've realized. They've acted as protectors against cholera in rivers such as the Ganges and the Mtkvari Rivers, but they also exist in soil and the air.

The middle chapters of the book also deal with the lives and careers of the scientists who studied phages. They were initially laughed off, but over time, phages grew to be taken more seriously, particularly by the Pasteur Institute in France and the (now-named) Eliava Institute in Georgia. The bulk of phage research ended up being carried out at the latter, and Georgia ended up being the rising star of phage research. We learn about the people who studied phages, what their lives and careers were like up until that point, and the ways they changed (if at all) afterward. While this was not meant to be a biography, I found I enjoyed learning about the personal lives of the scientists and liked following their careers from students to stars of their field.

Of course, no good dead goes unpunished, and Georgia ended up under Soviet control, thus placing the country and phages at risk of Soviet-era threats, from a breakdown of manufacturing processes to Stalin's purges. However, for the first period of Soviet rule, the Eliava Institute was able to continue running with great success. They continued to produce cholera- and dysentery-fighting phages, they developed phages that could be used during WWII to save battle wounds and that helped prevent epidemics during front-line sieges. There was even a period after the war when things were going okay...but then the Great Terror came and the Institute nearly fell apart. Phage research likely would've been almost entirely lost if not for the perseverance of the scientists and doctors at the Eliava Institute, both during the purges and later on during the Georgian Civil War.

In part because it was Soviet medicine and in part because a lack of regulations in the early phage period resulted in bad or no outcomes, phage medicine was laughed off in the West even into the 2000s. Even as drug-resistant superbugs were starting to emerge and develop faster resistance to new antibiotics. Again, it was the persevering phage scientists who ensured the research continued and bit by bit phages were (re)introduced into Western medicine until it was deemed okay to use them in lieu of antibiotics for food--apparently a lot of food products are treated with phage sprays to prevent/get rid of infectious pathogens. Once that hurdle was crossed, some of those same scientists began working toward phages for human medicine...and then they started getting approved for human use.

As someone who is allergic to some antibiotics and freaked out by the side effects of others, I'm glad for personal reasons that we're starting to look at effective alternative therapies. On a larger scale, we're starting to look at bacteriophages right when we need to and if clinical trials continue and phages start reaching the market, we have a very real chance of aborting the antibacterial resistant threat before it really consumes us.

[paramedicabroad]

Historical Monuments of Mtskheta

Nestled at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, the ancient town of Mtskheta in Georgia is a living testament to the country’s rich history and spiritual heritage. As one of Georgia’s oldest cities and the former capital of the Kingdom of Iberia, Mtskheta holds a special place in the hearts of Georgians. The town's historical monuments, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a captivating glimpse into the region's early Christian architecture and cultural significance. Let's explore the magic of Mtskheta's sacred landmarks.

In 1994, the historical monuments of Mtskheta were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, acknowledging their outstanding universal value. The recognition helps protect these ancient sites, ensuring they remain a part of Georgia’s cultural legacy for future generations.

Dominating the skyline of Mtskheta, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is an architectural marvel and one of the most venerated religious sites in Georgia. Built in the 11th century on the site of Georgia’s first Christian church, it is said to house the burial site of Christ’s robe. The cathedral’s intricate stone carvings and frescoes depict biblical scenes and Georgian history, making it a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture.

Perched atop a hill overlooking Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery offers panoramic views of the town and its surrounding landscape. This 6th-century monastery, whose name means "Monastery of the Cross," is an exquisite example of early Georgian church architecture. The simple yet elegant design of Jvari has inspired many other churches in the region.

Located near Svetitskhoveli, Samtavro Monastery is another significant religious site in Mtskheta. This complex includes a church and a nunnery, dating back to the 4th century and later expanded in the 11th century. It is known for its beautiful frescoes and the tombs of King Mirian III and Queen Nana, who were instrumental in the spread of Christianity in Georgia.

Mtskheta is not only about its standing monuments but also its rich archaeological heritage. Excavations in the area have uncovered numerous artifacts, from ancient pottery to gold jewelry, providing insights into the daily lives and customs of its early inhabitants. These findings are displayed in the Mtskheta Archaeological Museum.

The historical monuments of Mtskheta are home to several revered Christian relics, which attract pilgrims from all over the world. Among them is the life-giving pillar (Svetitskhoveli) and parts of the Holy Cross, underscoring Mtskheta’s role as a spiritual center.

Mtskheta’s monuments have played a crucial role in the cultural and religious development of Georgia. The town’s historic churches have been central to the Georgian Orthodox faith, serving as the site of many significant events in the country’s religious history.

Today, Mtskheta remains a vibrant town where history and modernity coexist. Visitors can wander through its ancient streets, attend services at its historic churches, and experience the spiritual ambiance that has defined Mtskheta for millennia.

Exploring the historical monuments of Mtskheta is like taking a step back in time. Each church, monastery, and artifact tells a story of faith, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Georgian people. This sacred town invites you to immerse yourself in its rich heritage and discover the timeless beauty of Georgia’s ancient heart.🏕️🏛️🇬🇪

[tri-ciclo]

I Don't Know, Why I've Fallen so in Love!

Every Khevsur, every Svan, Blackberry-eyed Georgian woman, My Tbilisi, and Pirosmani, I don't know, why I've fallen so in love!

As soon as he died, everyone worshipped him, While alive, no one went near him, I live on Pirosmani's street And every morning I meet Nikolas.

With his sleep broken and disturbed He whets his appetite with a glass of vodka, Then stumbles, as if struck by moonlight And paints the beauties of Ortachali.

The Georgian sky, the Georgian land, The Mtkvari, both turbulent and clear... My Tbilisi and Pirosmani, I don't know, why I've fallen so in love!

- Lado Asatiani, 1939

[alphaman99]

FAI the Publicist

Suggested for you  · 5d  ·

Two rivers of Georgia (Asian continent or transcontinental) that meet but do not mix: they are the white Aragvi and the black Agravi.

The reason why they do not mix is ​​due to the composition, density, temperature, elevation that develops between them, which acts as a thin wall that prevents mixing.

Further south, at the level of the Jinvali reservoir, the river reached by the waters of Aragvi of Pshavi and that of Khevsureti, takes the unique name of Aragvi and in turn flows into the Mtkvari river, in Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia.

In Mtskheta, from the Jvari (Cross) Monastery, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the two rivers connecting to each other.

With their different colors you can clearly see the meeting point.

[john-william-12]

Travel to Georgia from India

Georgia, which is located in Europe and Asia, is a fascinating destination for Travelers who are seeking a rich history, blend of scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. The country's stunning mountain ranges, ancient monasteries, delicious cuisine and charming cities, make it a favorite place for International Tourists. Due to visa friendly policies and close proximity to India, Georgia offers a unique escape. Let’s start a new journey to Georgia in which you will know about how you plan your trip in 5 days with outdoor activities. 

Why is Georgia famous among tourists?

For some reasons, Georgia is famous among Tourists. These reasons are: 

1. Georgia is famous for its wonderful landscapes, from Caucasus Mountains to the serene Black Sea coast. If you are nature enthusiasts, you will find a paradise here Ancient rives, Lush valleys, and Hidden caves that offer outdoor exploration opportunities. 

2. Georgia is one of the oldest Christian nations where you will find the most stunning monasteries and churches. The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the Gergeti Trinity Church and the Jvari Monastery structure show countries' deep religious history and architectural beauty.

3. The Culture of Georgia is thousands of years old. From famous polyphonic singing to its folk dance, Georgia's culture is alive and well. You can experience traditional feasts, known as "Supra" and enjoy a taste of the country's hospitality. 

4. For Indian Travelers, Georgia is an attractive destination due to the affordable and visa friendly option. Indian tourists can easily apply for a visa to Georgia, making the process straightforward and simple.  

A 5-Day trip to Georgia for Indian travelers

Georgia e visa for Indian helps to plan a 5 day trip, making a perfect opportunity to explore the country's top attraction while enjoying its hospitality. Follow the below mentioned 5 days plan to explore Georgia: 

Day 1: Arrival in Tbilisi

You can start your first day in Tbilisi, which is the capital of Georgia. Tbilisi's old town is known for its wooden balconies, narrow streets and diverse architectural styles. You can visit the iconic Narikala Fortress, modern Bridge of Peace, Sulfur Baths and explore Rustaveli Avenue which is lined with cafes, shops and museums. In the evening, you should take a walk along the Rike Park and enjoy a panoramic view of the city at night. 

Day 2: Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery

Second day, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mtskheta, which is located a short drive from Tbilisi. It was the country's capital. Explore the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral which is the most important religious place. It is believed to be the robe of Christ, making it a  sacred site for locals. From Mtskheta, you can go to the Jvari Monastery where you will see the confluence of Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. This monastery itself holds deep spiritual significance. 

Day 3: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church

A trip to Georgia is not complete without visiting Kazbegi, It is located three hours from Tbilisi. This place is famous for its dramatic mountain landscapes. If you are an adventure lover and want to see the views of surrounding valleys and mountains, you can hike to Gergeti Trinity Church. After that, you can explore the charming Stepantsminda town and enjoy local cuisine in the cafes of the mountain. 

Day 4: Gudauri Ski Resort

Gudauri Ski Resort is the premier ski resort of Georgia which is located along the famous Georgian Military Highway. If you are a skier or not, you should try activities such as paragliding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling which is the best experience in your life. It is a haven for Skiers and snowboarders that offers a fantastic view of the Caucasus Mountains. During the summer, the Resort transforms into Hikers. You can feel fresh mountain air, take a cable car ride and see the fabulous view. 

Day 5: Kakheti Wine Region

On the last day, Visit Kakheti which is Georgia's famed wine region. A trip to Kakheti offers a chance to explore ancient vineyards, taste some of the world's best wines. Kakheti's famous destination is Sighnaghi town which is known as "City of Love". It offers hilltop views of the Alazani Valley. If you want to learn about traditional winemaking methods then take a part in a Georgian wine-tasting tour. Kakheti provides the perfect end of your Georgian adventure tour. 

Outdoor activities for Indian travelers

During your 5 days trip to Georgia, you can also enjoy outdoor activities. This place is an outdoor lover’s paradise that offers a variety of activities if you are an adventure seeker. 

1. You can hike and trek in the Svaneti and Kazbegi mountain regions that offer numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. 

2. If you are going to Georgia in winter, you must visit Gudauri and Bakurian, popular ski resorts for sports. You can ski and snowboard, these resorts offer lessons for beginners. 

3. For a thriller experience, you can do Paragliding over the Caucasus Mountains and see the beauty of Georgia from the sky. 

4. Another outdoor activity is Rafting. You can enjoy white water Rafting on the Aragvi River or Rioni River. These fast-flowing Rivers provide a fun experience of Georgia's nature.

Conclusion

For Indian travelers, Georgia is a dream destination who are seeking a unique mix of adventure culture and natural beauty. Georgia offers an unforgettable journey with its rich history and fantastic landscapes. In Georgia, you can explore Mtskheta and Jvari Monastery, Hiking in the mountains, visit Kakheti Wine Region, etc. give you lasting memories. It is possible due to Georgia e visa for Indian Travelers that allows them to enter the country. So, Do not waste your time, apply for a visa for Georgia, pack your bags and get ready to explore Georgia. 

[hvonart]

In the heart of Georgia lies Tbilisi, a city steeped in myth and whispered histories, where the shadowy silhouettes of ancient churches loom against the twilight sky. Imagine a vibrant oil painting capturing its essence: narrow, winding streets embraced by the warm glow of lanterns, and colorful wooden balconies adorned with intricate carvings, all draped in a delicate tussle of mist. As the sultry warmth of the evening air mingles with hints of sulfur from the nearby baths, there's an alluring tension between the past and the present, a pulsing energy that feels both welcoming and enigmatic.

The Mtkvari River sneaks through the city like a silver ribbon, reflecting the kaleidoscope of lights from the old town’s cobblestones, as the sultry notes of a distant georgian melody float on the breeze. Here, every corner holds a story, every shadowed alley a secret waiting to be unveiled, creating an enchanting tapestry of life that beckons the curious traveler into its mysterious embrace.

Discover more travel tips for City Breaks in Europe: book24h.online

[mr-moonfucker]

the weather sooooo ass it even snowed in the "it doesnt snow here anymore... not since the global warming... when we were kids the mtkvari used to freeze over and we'dskate on it " town, absolute cinema