We started at Bargeti Cathedral. For centuries, it was a ruin, without a dome, and with grass growing between the walls, but still used for worship. It was declared a UNESCO world heritage site, but after various restorations, this status is threatened because less than 70% is original. The photo shows old and new stones.
Gelati Monastery is wonderful, with churches covered in frescoes. Does this one show David the Builder with his greatgranddaughter Queen Tamar?
David was a giant, over 7 feet tall. I lay down to measure what is supposed to be his tombstone. He asked to be buried at the entrance to the monastery so that he could count pilgrims on their way in.
We stopped for lunch in Zestaponi, half way between the Black Sea and Tbilisi, and capital of fast food outlets. Not fast enough, when 16 customers arrive at once.
What was advertised as a walk in the forest turned out to be a visit to the Green Monastery, on one route of the Silk Road.
emeritablog: life after work 