Martvili looks and feels like a paradise not only because of its beautiful nature and amazing sites but also because of its inhabitants, who welcome guests in a tradition of warmth and hospitality. Martvili district is truly one of the greatest places in Georgia combining unique natural environment with historical monuments. History here starts from the period of Sumerian hieroglyphs and the place is rich in medieval period churches and castles, set among lush forests, centuries old vineyards and peaceful river banks.
Briefly about natural and historical sites to visit in Martvili district:
A visit to Martvili begins with the Martvili Monastery of VII c - Chkondidi Cathedral. Revered as the gem of Georgian masonry, this cathedral rests on the roots of the old oak tree (Chkoni in Megrelian language means oak). Greatness of this place for Georgians is defined by the fact that the King David IV (1089-1125), known as the Builder, received his education here. Since the accomplishment of his training by Giorgi Chkondideli (the head if Georgian church of that time) young David was sworn to be King as his father King Giorgi II stepped down. The next is Salkhino - the summer residence of Dadianis (governors of the Samegrelo region) with XVII century church of Virgin Mary, XIX c wine cellar and local sort of vine - Ojaleshi. The residence is now turned into a monastery and run by monks. Also not be missed is the archaic site Oniore, a rock formation featuring Sumerian hieroglyph engravings. From natural sites one should be particularly mentioned - Oputskhoe - a picturesque bathing place in a cluster of miniature waterfalls. This place served as a bathing area for the Dadianis.
The quickest way to see most of Martvili is a 2 day trip: Starting from Tbilisi early morning and arriving in Martvili in 3.5 hours. The site-seeing starts from Martvili Monastery and continues to Salkhino, summer residence of Dadianis. The next place is Martvili centre - local Museum of artifacts that can be visited before or after an authentic lunch in one of the local haunts in town. The trip continues to Oputshoe - the bathing place of Dadianis, continued with tracking through natural areas along the rivers of Tsachkhura, Tekhura and Abasha. First day ends in a village guesthouse with local homemade food for dinner. This is easily and safely accommodated by your Georgian Association of Guides accredited tour operator. The second day starts with the trip to Tamakoni, an ancient fortress area. The fortress ruins date of IX c AD. Next, even older town fortifications of Abedati, which date from no early than I c AD, then on to the village of Veditkari. The village is known for its old church ruins circa XII c. The trip finishes in the village of Didi Chkoni where a new church of St. Nicolas is being built at this time.
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