The cave city of Vardzia, Georgia | A UNESCO masterpiece, 2026
Visiting the cave city of Vardzia: a 12th-century engineering masterpiece of 13 floors inside the mountain, on UNESCO’s list. A Vardzia tour with MoonRise.
The cave city of Vardzia is one of the most amazing engineering and artistic masterpieces in the world, built in the 12th century. This rock city is carved into the mountain range of southern Georgia and includes 13 floors, hundreds of rooms, a church, and secret tunnels, all hewn out of the rock.
Vardzia was added to the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list in 1985 and is one of Georgia’s most important tourist attractions. With two main entrances and several secret entrances carved into the mountain, the city shows the engineering genius of antiquity.
In this article we look at the history of the cave city of Vardzia, how to get there, the different parts of the city, and practical tips for visiting. Vardzia is in southern Georgia, about 3 hours from Tbilisi, and can be visited on a one-day tour.
What is the cave city of Vardzia?
Vardzia is a rock city carved in the 12th century into the mountain range of southern Georgia. It includes 13 floors, hundreds of rooms, a church, and secret tunnels, all hewn out of the rock.
The history of how Vardzia was built
Vardzia was built in the reign of King George III and his daughter Queen Tamar (one of the greatest rulers in Georgian history). The main aim was to create a strong stronghold against Mongol attacks. The city was added to UNESCO’s list in 1985.
The different parts of the rock city
Vardzia has several parts: rock churches with wall paintings, living rooms, food stores, secret tunnels, and an advanced water-supply system. Each part shows the engineering and artistic genius of antiquity.
The main and secret entrances
Vardzia has two main entrances and several secret entrances carved into the mountain. These secret entrances were used to escape during a siege or to reach water sources.
How to get there, and one-day tours
Vardzia is in southern Georgia, about 3 hours from Tbilisi. It can be visited on a one-day tour from Tbilisi. The route to Vardzia is a mountain road with beautiful views.
Practical tips for visiting
A visit to Vardzia takes about 2 to 3 hours. Good shoes for walking on the stone paths are essential. In summer, bring water and a sun hat. Entry to the rock city usually costs a small fee.
Frequently asked
Where is the cave city of Vardzia?
Vardzia is in southern Georgia, about 3 hours from Tbilisi.
Is Vardzia on the UNESCO list?
Yes. Vardzia was added to the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list in 1985.
How long does a visit to Vardzia take?
A visit to Vardzia takes about 2 to 3 hours. It can be done on a one-day tour from Tbilisi.
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