What Is the Second-Largest City of Georgia; Kutaisi?

Kutaisi is the second-largest city in Georgia and is an ancient town which was once the capital of the Georgian Kingdom. Situated along the shores of the Rioni River, it is located in the Imereti region in Western Georgia, close to the border with Turkey. The city is a popular tourist destination, with its old architecture, cobblestone streets, botanical gardens, and proximity to major attractions like the Black Sea Riviera, the Georgian Military Highway, and the David Gareja monastery.The city has a population of just over 205,000, which makes it the second-largest in Georgia behind the capital, Tbilisi. It is home to several universities, including Georgian Technical University and Ilia State University, and is an important industrial center for wine production, energy production, and food processing.Kutaisi was an important city in ancient times. It served as a political, commercial, and cultural center of Georgia from the eleventh century BC until its destruction by Mongol raiders in 1282. The city was then reconstructed in the 14th century and developed into a major commercial center. It was besieged by the Ottomans in 1613 and again in 1770; however, it remained under Georgian control.Kutaisi was declared the capital of Georgia in 1918 but lost its status to Tbilisi in 1936. This is due to the government at the time wanting to move away from the city’s traditional links to Russia. It is now an important regional center for trade, culture, and politics and has become a popular tourist destination.Kutaisi has long been a hub of culture in Georgia and is known for its theaters, including Rustaveli State Drama Theatre and Kutaisi State Dramatic Theatre. The city has several museums and galleries, including the Museum of Politics and Law, the National Art Gallery of Kutaisi, and the Kutaisi Museum of Fine Arts. It is also well-known for its many botanical gardens, such as Botanika Park and Botanical Garden of Imereti State University.Kutaisi is a transport hub as it is located on major transport routes, including the Trans-Caucasus Railroad and the road to Turkey. The city also has an international airport and a sea port on the Rioni River. Thanks to this strategic location, Kutaisi is an important trade center and an important part of Georgia’s economy. The city also hosts a variety of festivals and other cultural activities throughout the year.In conclusion, Kutaisi is a beautiful ancient town located in Western Georgia with over 200,000 inhabitants. It is an important center for history, culture, politics, and trade in Georgia as well as being an increasingly popular tourist destination. It has a variety of museums and galleries, botanical gardens, theaters, and other attractions as well as being an important transport hub for rail, road, air and sea. For more information about what to do in Kutaisi be sure to check out TravelGeorgia which provides a comprehensive guide on things to do in Kutaisi as well as other locations across Georgia.

Insider’s Guide to Kutaisi, Georgia

Located in Western Georgia, Kutaisi is the second-largest city in the country, with its rich history, surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush forests. A mix of old and new, it is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of ancient culture and modern lifestyle. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you explore the city’s hidden treasures.

Attractions

Kutaisi is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks. Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, fulfilling the city’s thousands of years of cultural history. Also, the Colchis Fountain offers a glimpse of an ancient civilization’s advanced engineering.

One of the most beautiful parks in the city is the Tsiklauri Forest Park, featuring dense forests and a hidden waterfall. Kids will love visiting the Kutaisi Zoo to interact with various animals. The Sataplia Nature Reserve is also a must-visit, where visitors can explore cave systems and witness dinosaur footprints.

Dining

Georgian cuisine is known worldwide for its unique flavors, and Kutaisi offers many authentic places to dine. The local specialty, Khachapuri, a cheese-filled bread, is a must-try dish, which can be found at any traditional Georgian restaurant. One such place is the Retro Cafe, which provides a welcoming atmosphere with retro decor.

For a more upscale dining experience, the Ponte Vecchio Italian Restaurant is an excellent choice. Located in the city center, it offers various Italian dishes along with a vast selection of wines.

Cultural Experiences

Kutaisi is rich in cultural experiences – from opera to movies, the city has it all. The Kutaisi Opera House features performances by the Kutaisi Opera and Ballet Theater, showcasing ballet and opera shows. Another cultural attraction in the city is the Kutaisi State Historical Museum, where visitors can learn about the city’s history and see ancient artifacts and art.

For movie enthusiasts, the Apollo Theater is a must-visit. This one-of-a-kind cinema is the oldest in the city and shows classic and modern films. The hall is also host to various seminars and presentations.

Local History

Kutaisi’s history dates back thousands of years and is preserved throughout the city. The Bagrati Cathedral, built in the 11th-century, is the iconic symbol of the city and is considered a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture. Gelati Monastery, founded by King David IV, was later fortified and served as a cultural center, producing much of Georgia’s literature and art during the Middle Ages.

Another historical site nearby is the ancient city of Uplistsikhe, a few miles from the city. This cave city was one of the significant cultural, religious, and political centers of ancient Georgia.

Off-The-Beaten-Path

For those who want to experience something different, Kutaisi offers several off-the-beaten-path destinations. The Okatse Canyon, located around two hours from the city, offers many hiking trails leading visitors through beautiful landscapes and waterfalls.

Gubazeul Cave, another offbeat location, is known for its unique natural rock formations. The cave system also has stunning underground lakes and ancient fossil remains.

Another hidden gem is the Prometheus Cave, a natural wonder featuring an underground river, various stalactites and stalagmites, and illuminated walkways.

Conclusion

With so many attractions for tourists, Kutaisi is undoubtedly a must-visit city in Georgia. Whether you’re looking for historical, cultural, natural, or offbeat experiences, this city has it all. Make sure to add Kutaisi to your itinerary for an unforgettable travel experience.