old tbilisi
Tbilisi - Georgia The capital of Georgia is located in the Mtkvari river valley. It was founded in the 5th century AD by King Vakhtang Gorgasali. Its name comes from the numerous hot springs in the area, which are used to make thermal pools and baths. By the 12th Century, the golden age of Georgian history, there were over 60 thermal baths in Tbilisi. As the capital of one the powerful countries in the Caucasus, Tbilisi commanded the Great Silk Road trade route between east and west on the south side of the Caucasus. Over its long and turbulent history Tbilisi has seen many foreign armies passing through it. Since Georgia gained independence fighting in the streets caused great damage to the heart of the city. Now it is rapidly recovering and Rustaveli Avenue, the main street, is rapidly becoming a smart and modern area with a special character many will fall in love with. At least half a day should be devoted to a tour of the city which should take in the Old City with its small wooden houses with carved balconies, museums, winding narrow streets and at its heart Irakli II square. Little cafe's, shops, churches, art galleries and mosques abound here and this is the area to just wander around in. The Mtatsminda (Holy Mountain) and Narikala Fortress overlook the old city. The modern city centre is Tavisuplebis Moedani or Freedom Square. Where Lenin once inspired the citizens is now found a fountain where they can now cool themselves on a hot Sunday evening when Rustaveli Avenue is closed to traffic. Walking along the avenue several of the best hotels in Tbilisi, the Art Gallery and National Museum are passed. Apart from this there are numerous churches to be visited and the more daring can try a hot bath with massage which can result in you losing several layers of skin, much surplus weight and test your suppleness beyond its limits.