Kareli

Where is Kareli Located?

Kareli is located in the Shida Kartli region, in Kareli municipality, 94 km from Tbilisi. In addition to Kareli itself, the municipality contains 17 territorial units. The best-known of them are Urbnisi, Ruisi, and Agara, while the following rivers flow through Kareli: Mtkvari, Dzama, as well as West, Middle and East Prone. The main highway of the country passes through Kareli as well.

History of Kareli   

As an urban center, Kareli was mentioned for the first time in the 16th-17th centuries, although its history dates back to the Early Bronze Age. This has been confirmed by archaeological artifacts, of which 1,300 are stored in the Museum of the Study of Local Lore of Kareli. This part of Georgia is connected with the Ruisi-Urbnisi Council held at the beginning of the 12th century, which played an important role in the development of the Georgian Church.

What can be seen in Kareli?

Bateti Lake is a shining example of just how impressive nature is in this area, as it reflects the surrounding forests like a mirror and is one of the most popular places for visitors.

In addition, the Red Stone Waterfall, Abukhalo Waterfall, and Bebnisi Lake in Kareli municipality are all visited by hikers and picnic lovers all year round.

Elsewhere, Kintsvisi Monastery is one of the main cultural-historical sights of Shida Kartli, known for its important samples of Georgian monumental paintings, the most remarkable of which is a fresco of an angel. You will also find Dzami Castle, the beautiful monastery of Mzovreti, the fortress hall, and Samtsevrisi Cathedral in Kareli.  

All of these monuments are located in the geographical area of Dzamis Valley, which was created through the inspiration of Tao-Klarjeti churches and monasteries, and is unique in terms of the type of active religious life led here in 21st-century Georgia.