Tskhrajvari

Where is Tskhrajvari Located?

Tskhrajvari was constructed in the Imereti region, atop a mountain peak approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. Though, "constructed" might be the wrong word – the site is special precisely because it’s not a traditional building with icons and relics. Instead, it is an open-air complex comprising crosses of various sizes. A particular standout is the massive golden cross with lily-like ends characteristic of Georgian traditions standing in the middle. The other crosses are simpler, made of dark metal with a more modest design.

The mountain peak where Tskhrajvari stands is popular among both pilgrims and regular hikers due to the stunning views of western Georgia. On a clear day, one can see the Colchis lowlands, the Black Sea, and the snowy peaks of the Caucasus from here. However, the high-altitude location is known for rapid weather changes, with fog often descending unexpectedly and lingering for a considerable time.

Tskhrajvari Cave marks an important archaeological discovery near the main site. The cave consists of several chambers, with a total length of 460 meters. Its interior is notable for uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites. Researchers have also found paleo-zoological materials, adding to the historical importance of the cave itself and the entire Tskhrajvari area.

Who Built Tskhrajvari?

The exact origins of Tskhrajvari are unclear. There are two local legends, but there’s little historical evidence to confirm either.

According to one of the legends, a father sent his nine sons to war and prayed fervently for their safe return every day. One day, he decided to build a sanctuary in their names. He carried each of the nine crosses, one for each son, up the mountain on his back. God heard his prayers, and all nine sons returned safely. The family name, the village they were from, as well as the war the legend refers to, all remain unknown, albeit many believe it was World War II as Tskhrajvari is a relatively recent site.

The other legend is more tragic and tells of the Sopromiani family, who fled Svaneti after killing a noble. Fearing vengeance, they settled in Racha, near Ambrolauri, and changed their family name to Sopromadze. However, they couldn’t escape divine retribution, as all the boys born into the family died before reaching adulthood. In despair, the family prayed, asking God to grant them a surviving son, vowing to build a sanctuary wherever a dove would land. As it transpired, the dove landed on this mountain.

The Sopromadze family kept their promise, carrying stones up by hand to build the sanctuary at the mountain's peak. After completing the construction, they held a feast, got drunk, quarreled, and blood was shed. Filled with regret, they vowed to abstain from eating meat and to pray together on the last Saturday of May every year. This ritual is honored to this day, through the traditional Tskhrajvaroba celebrations.

How to Get to Tskhrajvari

If you’re traveling from Tbilisi, the journey will take about four hours, with the distance from the capital’s center around 240 km. The route follows the S1 highway from Tbilisi to Zestafoni and then turns towards Tkibuli. Most of the latter road is paved and easy to navigate, although caution is advised on the final stretch, especially in rainy weather.

From Kutaisi, Tskhrajvari is about 55 km away, requiring roughly 1.5 hours. The most direct and convenient route is via the Kutaisi-Tkibuli-Ambrolauri highway, which is fully paved and accessible year-round.

From Batumi, it takes around 3.5 hours, covering approximately 210 km. First, head towards Samtredia, then take the S1 highway and, finally, turn towards Tkibuli.

You’ll need to park at the base of the ascent, and then walk several kilometers more to reach Tskhrajvari itself. The hiking route is moderately challenging, with the second half of the path winding along a cliff edge. One way, the hike takes about an hour.

Nearby Landmarks

Although Tskhrajvari sits separately atop a cliff, several well-known historical and natural landmarks of Racha and Imereti are fairly near:

Nikortsminda Cathedral – An 11th-century masterpiece of Georgian architecture, famous for its unique ornaments and façade decorations. Inside, 16th-17th century frescoes are preserved. Since 2007, the Nikortsminda Cathedral has been on UNESCO's Tentative World Heritage List. It’s about a 20-30-minute drive from Tskhrajvari.

Sakinule Cave - A natural cave near the Nikortsminda village, where ice stalactites and stalagmites stand tall all-year-round (“sakinule” means “freezer” in Georgian). Some columns reach up to eight meters in height and around 20 meters in circumference. To drive here from Tskhrajvari takes about 30 minutes.

Waterfall of Love - One of the most romantic spots in Racha, located near the edge of Ambrolauri. The heart-shaped pool beneath the waterfall of Love was hand-carved into the rock. According to a local legend, a man named Levan Murusidze made it for his wife. It’s a beautiful place, with ivy covering the pool entrance and water droplets cascading down like a curtain. The drive from Tskhrajvari to the waterfall takes approximately 40 minutes.

Shaori Lake - Not strictly speaking a lake, but the region's largest reservoir, nestled in a hollow surrounded by mixed deciduous forest. It’s popular among lovers of peaceful vacations, as well as fishing and picnicking enthusiasts. Shaori Reservoir is especially picturesque in autumn and spring when the surrounding forest transforms into different colors, drawing many visitors for photo opportunities. It’s a 10-15 minute drive from Tskhrajvari.