Kutaisi – The Second Largest Metropolis in Georgia

Kutaisi is the second largest metropolis in Georgia and is the main metropolis of the western region. It is located in the Imereti region of the country, 180 kilometers west of its capital, Tbilisi. It is the administrative seat of the Kutaisi Municipality and of the Imereti Governorate. With an estimated population of 213,000, Kutaisi is an important industrial and transport hub, linking the Black Sea port of Poti with western Georgia, Ukraine and Russia.

Kutaisi has a long and distinguished history, being an important seat of religion since the 4th century BC. The city was once home to several different civilizations, including Ancient Greeks, Romans, Ottoman Turks and Russian Empire. It was also known as an educational center for centuries, and has a strong cultural heritage.

As the second largest city in Georgia, Kutaisi has plenty of attractions for tourists to explore. The city boasts a number of iconic landmarks and monuments that have new a specific appeal to those interested in history and culture. The Bagrati Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. The monument combines elements of different religions and cultures, with traces found from both Georgian and Byzantine styles. The Gelati Monastery is another popular monument, as it contains several religious artifacts that date back to the 11th century.

Apart from its historical monuments, Kutaisi boasts a vibrant nightlife. The city is filled with a variety of bars, clubs and cafés that are ideal for those looking for an evening out. There are numerous places to dine out in the city, ranging from traditional Georgian restaurants to more international flavors.

One of the most interesting aspects of Kutaisi is its leisure activities. Apart from its vibrant nightlife, there are plenty of things to do and enjoy in Kutaisi. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, from cultural festivals such as the Kutaisi International Music Festival to sport events like the 2nd International Rugby Sevens Championship. On top of this, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy such as hiking, cycling and even skiing during the winter months.

For those looking for a shopping experience, Kutaisi is home to a large shopping mall that is home to many well-known international brands, as well as providing plenty of food outlets and recreational activities such as bowling and arcades.

Overall, Kutaisi is an interesting and vibrant city that is well worth exploring if you have the chance. For more information on this wonderful Georgian city, please visit Visit-Kutaisi.com, which provides detailed information about the culture, history and attractions that Kutaisi has to offer.

Insider’s Guide to Kutaisi – The Second Largest Metropolis in Georgia

Located in the western region of Georgia, Kutaisi is a city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive insight into the city and its surroundings, highlighting all the best things to do while visiting Kutaisi.

Local Attractions

Kutaisi offers a range of historic and cultural attractions that tourits can enjoy. Here are a few must-visit spots in the city:

• Gelati Monastery: Founded in 1106 by King David the Builder, the Gelati Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture. The site is home to several 12th to 17th-century structures, including a church with intricate frescoes and mosaics.
• Bagrati Cathedral: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Bagrati Cathedral is a 10th-century masterpiece of Georgian architecture with a rich history dating back to the Kingdom of Colchis. The cathedral provides a beautiful panoramic view of Kutaisi from the hill on which it is perched.
• Prometheus Cave: Located 20 kilometers from Kutaisi, the Prometheus Cave is a stunning natural wonder with a 1.2-kilometer walking route along the underground river. Inside the cave, you’ll find an array of beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations that light up in different colors.

Dining Spots

Kutaisi’s traditional Georgian food is known for its distinctive flavor, and there is no shortage of dining options in the city center. Here are a few recommendations to savor Georgian cuisine in Kutaisi:

• Chashnagiri: This restaurant is an excellent spot for lunch or dinner, where you can enjoy some of the finest Georgian food, including Khachapuri (traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread), Kebabs, and more. There’s also a beautiful balcony and a terrace overlooking Kutaisi’s central square.
• Megrelian House: This restaurant is a must-visit for those looking for local delicacies. The restaurant serves traditional Georgian Megrelian cuisine, including the famous Megrelian Chvishtari (cornbread filled with cheese and other ingredients).

Cultural Experiences

While exploring Kutaisi, some cultural experiences are worth experiencing. Here are some insider’s guides on what to do:

• Georgian Dance Show: Georgian dance is among the most ancient and mesmerizing in the world. The show performs by professional dancers, and watching it will transport you into a beautiful world of music and dance.
• Colorful bazaar: Take a walk around Kutaisi’s central market and experience the lively and bustling atmosphere of the town. You’ll see an incredible array of fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, and traditional snacks like churchkhela, a sweet candy made from nuts and grape juice.

Local History

Kutaisi is full of history, and although it is mostly known for its ancient churches and monasteries, there are also several museums worth exploring. And here are some of them:

• Kutaisi Archaeological Museum: The museum displays exhibits an array of artifacts, including weapons, jewelry, and household items dating back to the Bronze Age. The museum’s basement houses the remains of the Colchian royal castle built-in 3rd Century BC.
• Dimitri Eristavi Museum of History: This museum showcases the history of the city, with displays ranging from the 3rd century BC to the Soviet occupation. One of the remarkable things about the museum is the life-sized wax figures of historically significant Georgian personalities.

Off the beaten path

Here are a few suggestions for tourists interested in something unusual when exploring Kutaisi:

• Sataplia Nature Reserve: Located 6 kilometers away from the city center, Sataplia Nature Reserve offers a unique experience for travelers. Visitors can take a walk along a 300-meter-long path to the cave entrance and a simple stairway to see the dinosaur’s footprints and other ancient formations.
• Tskhaltubo Spa: A natural mineral spring resort 10 kilometers from Kutaisi, Tskhaltubo was a popular destination among Soviet elites. Visitors can luxuriate in ancient bathhouses that the Soviet authorities built.

Conclusion

Kutaisi is the perfect destination for history and culture lovers. With its fascinating architecture, ancient monasteries, and natural wonders, it provides a real insight into Georgian history and its culture. No traveler will be left bored with the amazing selection of dining, cultural experiences, local history, and off the beaten path spots. Plan your visit to Kutaisi and enjoy all the best that this second largest metropolis in Georgia can offer you.