Manglisi offers a little something for everybody. The diverse forest massif with its pine trees create the perfect environment for those suffering from diseases of the lungs and respiratory tract, with the spring pollen being a natural antioxidant.
Resort season at Manglisi extends through the summer and into September, with its location 1,200 metres above sea level ensures cooler weather than you’ll find in Tbilisi. Winters here are quite cold with regular snowfall.
In the centre of Manglisi is an amusement park, where there are many attractions and rides in operation during the summer.
The road to Algeti National Park starts in the village of Manglisi. You will come across rare species of plants and mushrooms along the beautiful path leading through the dense forest. You may also encounter deer and rabbits as you explore.
Before it was a popular resort, Manglisi had a long history that stretches all the way back to early antiquity. Archaeological materials found here show that an important trade route once passed through Manglisi, connecting Georgia to Rome and later Byzantium.
At the beginning of the 4th century, when Christianity was proclaimed the official religion of Georgia, one of the first churches was built in Manglisi: Manglisi Cathedral. The cathedral acquired its current form in the 11th century when it was completely rebuilt, and is still active today.
The cathedrals frescoes are outstanding examples of medieval Georgian fresco artwork. The monastery is also home to a piece of the True Cross, as well as an ancient icon to the Virgin Mary, with an inscription that says, “Icon of the Imprecation of the Virgin Mary. First Century”.
Whether you’re a devout Christian, a family looking for an escape from the heat, a keen student of history, or you’re just looking for some relaxation, Manglisi offers something for you.