Tbilisi

Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The capital of Georgia was originally located in Mtskheta, but it was later moved to Tbilisi due to the unsuitability of Mtskheta's location for farming. The town of Mtskheta is surrounded by hills which makes it difficult to cultivate crops. According to legend, Tbilisi was founded in the 5th century CE by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali of Iberia (Georgia's predecessor state) after he discovered hot springs in the area while hunting. The name Tbilisi is derived from the Georgian word "tbili," meaning warm. 

Tbilisi has been ruled by various empires throughout its history, including the Persian, Arab, Mongol, and Ottoman empires. In the 19th century, the city became a major center of the Russian Empire. During the Soviet era, Tbilisi became the capital of the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic and experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. However, the city also played a significant role in Georgia's struggle for independence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Tbilisi has undergone significant transformation and modernization. The city has become a major cultural and economic center in the region, attracting tourists from all over the world with its rich history and stunning architecture. 

Things to do in Tbilisi

• Take an early morning walk through the city center: Tbilisi's city center is home to a variety of historical landmarks and architectural styles. The old town, in particular, is full of narrow streets, ancient churches, and traditional balconied houses. Taking a walk early in the morning means there will be fewer people around, and in summer, the weather will be cooler.

• Visit the Mother Georgia statue on top of Sololaki Hill: The statue, which was erected in 1958, is a symbol of the Georgian nation and its hospitality. Visitors can climb up to the top of the hill to get stunning panoramic views of the city.

• Explore the Botanical Garden: Located at the foot of Sololaki Hill, the Botanical Garden has a collection of over 4,500 plant species from all over the world. The garden was established in the 17th century, and many of the trees and plants are over 100 years old. At the end of the garden, there is a waterfall where locals often go to cool off in the summer.

• Visit Freedom Square: Freedom Square was originally called Lenin Square during Soviet times, but after Georgia gained independence, it was renamed Freedom Square. The square is home to several important government buildings and historical monuments and a good place is you want to go shopping. 

• Walk along the Old City Wall: The Old City Wall dates back to the 4th century and was once used to protect the city from invaders. Today, visitors can walk along the wall and see traditional balconied houses, many of which were used as passageways to get from one street to another.

• Check out the Muppet Theatre clock: The clock, which was built in 2010, has an old-fashioned design that fits in with Tbilisi's traditional architecture.

• Visit the reconstructed Palace: The palace was originally built in the 18th century but was destroyed by the Persians in 1795. It was reconstructed in the 19th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.

• Walk across the glass bridge: The glass bridge, which was built in 2010, connects the old and new parts of the city. It offers stunning views of the river and surrounding areas.

• Visit the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali: King Vakhtang Gorgasali is said to have founded Tbilisi in the 5th century. The statue was erected in 2006 and is located in the heart of the city.

• Visit the Matkhevi St. Virgin Church: The church, which dates back to the 13th century, is located on a hill overlooking the city. It has beautiful frescoes and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

•  Visit Holy Trinity Cathedral: one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. The cathedral has a stunning architecture and ornate interior design. 

• Relax in the sulfur baths: Tbilisi is known for its sulfur baths, which are said to have healing properties. Visitors can choose between public or private baths, with the former being separated by gender. The baths date back to the 17th century, and the tradition of using them for healing and relaxation has been passed down through generations

According to legend, while out hunting, King Vakhtang's falcon caught a pheasant and fell into a hot spring. The king went to pick them up and his wounds were healed when in contact with the hot spring. He was so impressed by the hot springs that he decided to build a city there, which he named Tbilisi, meaning "warm location" in Georgian. The baths have been an important part of Tbilisi's culture and history ever since.

Georgian food

1. Khinkali - These are boiled buns with juicy meat inside and are a must-try Georgian specialty.

2. Khachapuri -baked pastry filled with cheese and sometimes other ingredients, such as spinach or egg. There are several types of khachapuri, the most famous are:

• Imeretian Khachapuri: This is a round or oval-shaped bread filled with a mixture of cheese, usually Sulguni, and sometimes eggs and butter. It's a simpler and lighter version of Khachapuri, and it's named after the Imereti region of Georgia where it originated.

• Adjarian Khachapuri: This is a boat-shaped bread filled with a mixture of cheese, usually Sulguni, and eggs, topped with a pat of butter and sometimes with a raw egg yolk in the middle (be sure that it's not too raw to avoid food poisoning - as we had). The idea is to mix the egg yolk and butter together with the cheese filling to create a creamy and delicious combination. It's named after the Adjara region of Georgia where it's most popular.

3. Lobio - a stew made with red beans, onion, garlic, and herbs.

4. Badrijani Nigvzit: fried eggplant slices filled with a mixture of walnuts, garlic, and spices.

5. Churchkhela: a sweet snack made by dipping strings of nuts, usually walnuts or hazelnuts, in a grape juice and flour mixture and letting them dry.

Restaurants recommendations

1. Samikitno Georgian Cuisine - This restaurant offers delicious local food and is a great place to try traditional Georgian dishes. Recommended dishes include khinkali, and lobio.

2. Cafe 38 - This restaurant offers stunning views of the city and has a charming decoration. It offers a range of local dishes and is perfect for a sunset dinner. Recommended dishes include khinkali, lobio, and eggplant with nuts (Badrijani Nigvzit).

3. Culinarium Khaskeria - This cute restaurant close to the sulfur baths offers fresh salads, soups, and fish dishes. The seasonal fruit lemonade is a refreshing drink on a hot summer day.

4. Fabrika - This is a hostel with several bars and a festive ambiance. It is a great place to chill, drink, and have some food. Recommended dishes include the burger and pumpkin and quinoa salad.

Accommodation recommendations

• Green House Hostel - This hostel offers simple rooms with air conditioning and good value for money. It is run by a friendly family and provides a comfortable stay for budget travelers. Price August 2022: 164 GEL / 2 nights

It's worth mentioning that this accommodation is located on the other side of the bridge, although it's not far from the city centre. If you're looking to stay right in the heart of the city, I'd suggest staying at the opposite side of the bridge from St. Virgins church; here are some recommendations:

• Apartment Botanikuri 15: Private room in a shared flat close to the sulfur baths. Option to have a private bathroom. Nice and spacious room.

• Anzori House: Guesthouse run by two very nice and welcoming women. Cozy with a nice view of Tbilisi from their terrace. Stayed in a small but practical room with a private bathroom on the first level.

• Tbilisi Memories Hotel: Apartment/hotel with various rooms. Spacious and clean room and bathroom. Simple breakfast, but overall a perfect stay.